12 Must-Have Skills and Certifications
Blockchain developers are the unsung heroes in the technology’s dynamic landscape. They’re the digital architects behind various applications’ secure, efficient and innovative solutions.
As the technology moves forward, the demand for blockchain developers intensifies. It’s not just about lines of code; it’s a combination of technical prowess, personal characteristics and relevant certifications to thrive within the industry. With the proper skill set, you can be an asset to blockchain enterprises.
What does it take to be a successful blockchain developer? Check out the must-have blockchain developer skills and certifications you need under your belt in the infographic below!
The anatomy of a blockchain developer: 12 must-have skills and certifications
What is a blockchain developer?
A blockchain developer is a skilled professional who designs, implements and maintains blockchain solutions. The role’s duties include creating secure and efficient decentralised applications (DApps), smart contracts and blockchain protocols.
Blockchain developers utilise various programming languages to ensure the integrity and functionality of blockchain systems. They are pivotal in advancing the capabilities of blockchain technology and its applications across diverse industries.
7 necessary skills for blockchain developers
What skills are required to be a blockchain developer? To thrive in the industry, you need to possess the following:
1. Solid understanding of blockchain technology
To be a successful developer, you must thoroughly comprehend blockchain principles, structure, processes and features, which are essential in laying the groundwork for effective technology development.
2. Programming skills
You need proficiency in various programming languages, including blockchain-specific languages like Solidity, GoLang and C++ as well as general programming languages like Python and Java.
3. Cybersecurity awareness
Ideally, you equip yourself with extensive knowledge of cybersecurity principles, emphasising cryptography and implementing security best practices. These skills contribute to the security of various transactions on the blockchain.
4. Problem-solving and analytical skills
No blockchain application is perfect, and as a developer, you must troubleshoot and debug issues. Customers and end-users expect efficiency in transactions, so thinking critically is a must when optimising and improving software for smooth operations.
5. Collaboration and communication
If you’re part of a team of developers, effective communication can help you complete projects faster. It also lets you foster a collaborative spirit within the organisation.
You may also have to explain complex concepts to those outside your team, such as investors or other people who are not entirely familiar with how blockchain works. Breaking down information into simpler terms can encourage others’ buy-in about your product and make them more receptive to learning.
6. Continuous learning
Staying abreast of evolving blockchain technologies and industry trends demonstrates your desire to keep improving and enhancing your skills in the field. This quality tells employers you are open to new information and can use recent advancements when improving blockchain applications.
7. Knowledge of ecosystems and standards
Understanding the broader blockchain ecosystems and industry standards means being well-versed in the latest tools, frameworks and compliance requirements. Then, you can use the information to deliver quality work that meets everyone’s expectations.
5 certifications for blockchain developers
Working with blockchain is continuous training and learning. Take these certifications to test your blockchain knowledge and skills.
1. Certified blockchain developer (CBD)
The Blockchain Council designed this certification to hone development skills and best practices within the blockchain domain. It serves as a foundational credential, covering the fundamental aspects of blockchain technology.
2. Blockchain software engineering
This certification by BSV Academy equips developers with the knowledge of how to create blockchain software applications. Lessons include understanding network infrastructures and how Merkle trees work.
3. Blockchain software development
Also offered by BSV Academy, this course enhances your software development expertise, including the fundamental principles and practices for creating robust blockchain solutions. Be ready for lessons on blockchain protocols, designs and digital signature schemes.
4. Certified smart contract developer
Smart contracts are pivotal in automating and securing transactions within decentralised applications (DApps) and blockchain networks.
This certification by the Blockchain Council teaches you to navigate the intricacies of smart contract programming. At the end of the course, you can create agreements that automatically execute and enforce the terms of a deal within a network.
5. Certified smart contract auditor
As smart contract adoption grows, so does the importance of securing them against potential exploits. The Blockchain Council’s course ensures developers possess the skills to conduct comprehensive audits, enhancing decentralised applications’ security and trustworthiness.
What blockchain companies are looking for in developers
As technology evolves, more companies seek to integrate blockchain solutions in their respective industries. If you’re trying to find employment in one of these companies, here are the sort of qualifications that they look for:
1. Synerio
Developers with a deep understanding of healthcare data management on the blockchain are welcome here. The company’s recruitment process emphasises expertise in building secure and scalable solutions for the healthcare industry.
2. Transmira, inc and Omniscape
This company hires blockchain developers with AR and VR expertise, especially those who can integrate immersive technologies and the blockchain.
3. UNISOT
UNISOT’s process assesses candidates with a solid ERP and supply chain background, evaluating their capability to leverage blockchain solutions for efficient and transparent supply chain management.
4. DotWallet
Several blockchain applications deal with managing cryptocurrency transactions between parties. DotWallet looks for developers with a background in payment solutions to keep the application safe and secure.
5. Elas
Elas wants developers who are well-versed in integrating IoT and associated devices into blockchain.
The company hires developers competent in blockchain applications for ecological solutions. Its recruitment process assesses a candidate’s ability to promote environmental sustainability through innovative blockchain technologies.
7. MetaStreme and WeatherSV
WeatherSV hires blockchain developers to integrate real-time weather data, including precipitation, humidity and air pressure, into the BSV blockchain.
Meanwhile, MetaStreme is a transaction engine that supports various processes, so a varied skill set is ideal. You’ll need knowledge of IoT devices, data indexing and mAPI applications TAAL and GorillaPool.
8. nChain
The company provides blockchain technology and consulting services, so its pool of developers has a deep understanding of various applications. Joining them means contributing to the company’s research and development initiatives.
9. Domineum Blockchain Solutions Ltd
If you are a developer with a strong foundation in creating blockchain-based solutions for various industries, Domineum Blockchain Solutions Ltd is a good option. A varied skill set makes you an attractive candidate who can help startups and government entities integrate blockchain into their operations.
Characteristics of successful blockchain developers
Beyond technical prowess, some qualities distinguish successful developers from the rest. Ideally, these characteristics apply to you, too.
1. Adaptability
Developers who can navigate the swift evolution of blockchain technologies stay ahead of the curve and keep their skills in demand. They can seamlessly transition between diverse blockchain frameworks to meet project requirements.
2. Attention to detail
A meticulous approach is vital in minimising errors within smart contracts, ensuring the seamless execution of code on the blockchain. Attention to detail also means maintaining data integrity within systems and applications.
3. Passion for learning
Successful developers are genuinely passionate about learning, continuously exploring emerging trends and staying informed about the latest advancements in blockchain technology. By constantly improving professionally, developers refine the skills necessary to remain relevant.
4. Ethical and responsible approach
Upholding ethical coding practices ensures blockchain solutions remain socially conscious and trustworthy. Conversely, unethical practices can quickly erode people’s trust in organisations with questionable reputations.
5. Discipline and commitment
The best developers are committed to growing and advancing the blockchain ecosystem. This devotion also translates to a disciplined work ethic, leading to daily efficiency and career milestones.
From coding to trailblazing
Mastering blockchain development entails acquiring industry certifications. The keystones of adaptability, meticulous attention to detail and unwavering passion are also essential in the blockchain space. Ultimately, expert developers emerge as coders and architects whose precision and foresight reshape the landscape of blockchain innovation.
If you decide to start your blockchain developer career today, BSV blockchain has a library of information to prepare you for the exciting journey that awaits.
