What Is a Blockchain Developer and How to Become One

A blockchain is a digital, public transaction record or digital ledger. People usually associate it with the cryptocurrency Bitcoin, but blockchain technology can also record digital transactions with other cryptocurrencies, data, or information. Unlike other forms of finance, cryptocurrencies that rely on the blockchain are decentralized, so people can access Bitcoin and other digital currencies without going to a bank. Computer experts and cryptographers are developing additional ways to use blockchain technology, such as for trade and healthcare records.

Blockchain jobs involve developing new ways to use blockchain technology or helping companies, governments, and organizations apply existing blockchain technologies to their operations. Your duties as a blockchain developer include creating or testing code for applications that interact with and utilize the blockchain in financial, business, or data processes. You work with engineers, architects, and others who have the qualifications and skills to develop applications and software solutions that use blockchain technology. Journalists and marketing professionals may have job responsibilities involving writing about or promoting cryptocurrency products and developments. Some companies specialize in operating computers that process and record blockchain transactions.

Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency that relies on the blockchain to record all of its transactions. When computers connected to the blockchain use their computing power to process these transactions, they get paid with a percentage of the Bitcoin. Each block represents one such transaction. Bitcoin is only one digital currency that relies on the blockchain. A growing number of additional "coins" rely on the same decentralized process. Also, blockchains can process other transactions and store other information in a decentralized and public way. Therefore, blockchain is much bigger than Bitcoin.