Blockchain can refer to several things depending on the context of use. It is:
- An innovative list of data blocks connected on the same network,
- A secure way to record and encrypt information, and
- A digital ledger of duplicated transactions across the network.
This secure network needs engineers to execute the blockchain for business solutions. Blockchain engineers typically work for data service firms and technology consulting firms, working full-time to analyze company needs and develop solutions to accommodate them. In addition, these jobs require developing and implementing unique assets and assisting in infrastructure design.
How to Become a Blockchain Engineer
Aside from basic technical skills in computer science, programming, data structures, and networking, aspiring engineers need to obtain professional blockchain certifications to understand the topic further.
To maximize your chances of becoming a blockchain engineer:
- Get a degree in computer science, IT, software engineering, or another related field
- Learn the basics of blockchain architecture and how to implement it
- Understand the different ways to apply data structure and algorithms such as the Merkle tree
- Develop cryptography skills to enhance your ability to secure a blockchain system, and consider gaining certification
- Train yourself in web development, including the primary programming languages, including C++, Python, and Java
- Obtain complete knowledge of blockchain platforms, standards, and the ecosystem as a whole
- Master the blockchain developing tools
- Consider blockchain certification to enhance your skills and resume even further
Reasons to Become a Blockchain Engineer
There are several reasons to consider becoming an engineer for this rapidly-evolving technology with increasing daily demand:
- Good salary: As a blossoming new technology with high demand and few engineers, blockchain is one of the highest-paid fields. It’s beneficial for someone with technological skills to start their career diving into the blockchain.
- Advanced technology: Because of the potential blockchain technology has to offer, engineers are in high demand. Some employers may even offer investment matching in cryptocurrency markets as part of their incentives.
- Chance to work at a big company: Big names like Microsoft, Samsung, and IBM are going all-in on blockchain technology, meaning they’re searching for engineers.
- Versatility: You won’t be restricted to just one organization thanks to blockchain’s versatility. You can jump into any industry dealing with banking, automation, health care, media, travel, retail, and insurance.
Blockchain Engineer Salary
As part of the software development umbrella, blockchain engineers receive a significant amount of money compared to software engineers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also observes substantial growth potential, making blockchain engineering a wise choice for any technically-skilled developer looking for a change.
Conclusion
Because blockchain is a growing field with few developers already trained to work in it, now is the right time to get into the career. You’ll work with advanced technology that will quickly become one of the essential parts of changing the world. For example, Bitcoin has already had a substantial impact on financial services, and that’s just one potential application.