Introduction

Blockchain is a decentralized digital database or ledger that securely stores records across a network of computers in a way that is transparent, immutable, and resistant to tampering. Each block contains data, linked in a chronological chain.

However, supply and demand poses a challenge for companies looking to hire blockchain developers, with the demand for qualified, experienced blockchain and web3 engineers outweighing the domestic supply within the US. Businesses often amplify this challenge by restricting their search to local tech talent; however, in recent years, the rise of remote, global work has begun to solve this issue.

What is Blockchain Development?

Blockchain development refers to the process of creating and maintaining decentralized systems, applications (dApps), and smart contracts that run on a shared, immutable digital ledger, with a focus on security, transparency, and eliminating central authorities by using cryptography to link blocks of transactions. It involves building core network infrastructure and developing user-facing tools like crypto wallets, DeFi platforms, or supply chain trackers, leveraging languages like Solidity for platforms like Ethereum.

What does a Blockchain Developer do?

A Blockchain Developer designs, builds, and maintains secure, decentralized systems and applications (DApps) by developing core blockchain architecture as well as creating user-facing applications that leverage blockchain, focusing on smart contracts, network protocols, security, and seamless integration with existing systems. They work on different layers, from core infrastructure to applications.

Blockchain Development Skills and Qualifications

Blockchain developers will often hold a degree in computer science or similar, though this is not essential. When hiring a blockchain developer, it’s most important to look for relevant skills and understanding of related technologies.

There are also many certifications and qualifications that a blockchain developer may have. Popular certifications include:

• Certified Blockchain Professional (CBP) / Expert (CBE)
• ISACA Blockchain Fundamentals Certificate
• EC-Council Certified Blockchain Professional
• ACAMS Cryptoasset & Blockchain Certificate
• Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate (CBCA)
• BCS EXIN Essentials Certificate in Blockchain
• IBM Professional Certificate in Blockchain Essentials
• Certified Corda Developer (CCD) certification
• Certified Hyperledger Fabric Administrator (CHFA)

Beyond technical skills, soft skills are vital when choosing your blockchain developer. Problem-solving is crucial, aiding with troubleshooting and continuous learning. Communication is also essential when looking for any new team member, particularly in facilitating clear and open communication between technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Popular Languages for Blockchain Development

There are many languages and frameworks commonly used for blockchain development. Some of the most popular include:

• Solidity: Essential for smart contracts on Ethereum and EVM-compatible chains.
• Rust: Used in Solana, Polkadot, and for core layer-1 development.
• Python: Great for rapid prototyping and scripting, with libraries for Hyperledger Fabric and NEO.
• JavaScript: Ubiquitous for dApps and front-end integration with wallets like MetaMask.
• Go/Golang: Powers Hyperledger Fabric and Geth (Go-Ethereum).
• Move: Developed by Meta for the Diem blockchain; used in Aptos and Sui.
• Scala (ErgoScript): Used in the Ergo blockchain.
• SQL: Used for database interaction within blockchain applications.

What are some popular Blockchain frameworks?

Frameworks are collections of reusable code, templates and tools that provide a foundational structure for building applications effectively and efficiently. Some of the most popular blockchain development frameworks include:

• Ethereum (Truffle, Hardhat, Foundry): The dominant platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).
• Polkadot (Substrate): A modular toolkit for building custom, application-specific blockchains (parachains) that can interoperate within the Polkadot network.
• Cosmos SDK: Provides a software development kit for creating independent, interoperable blockchains using the Inter-Blockchain Communication (IBC) protocol.
• Solana: Optimized for high speed and low transaction fees, Solana uses a unique Proof of History (PoH) consensus mechanism and supports applications requiring high throughput.

What are the most popular Blockchain technologies?

Blockchain technologies, or networks, are decentralized, shared digital ledgers that record transactions in “blocks,” linked cryptographically into an immutable chain, allowing secure, transparent data sharing and verification across many nodes. Some of the most popular include:

• Ethereum (ETH): The most widely used platform for decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and dApps.
• BNB Smart Chain (BNB): Part of the Binance exchange, it is suitable for building game and DeFi apps and boasts one of the largest user bases.
• Solana (SOL): Known for its high speed and low transaction costs (around $0.01 per transaction), designed for mass adoption.
• Tron (TRX): Dedicated to decentralized entertainment and content sharing.
• Bitcoin (BTC): The most well-known blockchain, primarily used as a decentralized, peer-to-peer digital currency.
• Hyperledger Fabric: An open-source project from the Linux Foundation providing a framework for building enterprise-grade, permissioned blockchain applications.
• R3 Corda: Designed for highly regulated industries, particularly the financial sector.
• IBM Blockchain: A comprehensive, managed blockchain platform leveraging Hyperledger Fabric to integrate with enterprise systems.
• Stellar (XLM): Optimized for enterprise use in cross-border payments and remittance across both fiat and crypto currencies.

How much does it cost to hire a Blockchain Developer?

When hiring traditionally in the US for a local, mid-level blockchain developer, the average annual compensation is $157,824, with a range of $75,000 to $275,000 according to Built In. However, even by just expanding to other parts of the United States, salaries can be reduced significantly.

On average, companies hiring blockchain developers with HireDevelopers can expect to save between 50% and 80% on salaries and hiring costs, with exact salaries varying based on location and experience. The greatest savings can be found by hiring in Africa and Asia, while companies looking for aligned time zones and a closer cultural match can hire from our extensive pool of Latin American developers.

How to hire Blockchain Developers

The first step to hiring a blockchain developer is to decide on a hiring method. Traditional hiring methods include local job adverts, LinkedIn job posts and using your professional network to identify potential candidates.

However, these methods are often time consuming and can be expensive. The median time to hire a developer is around 41 days, with the slowest 10% taking up to 82 days and 38% of companies reporting project delays due to recruitment problems, according to the Linux Foundation’s 2024 State of Tech Talent Report.

Alternatively, many companies are now turning to services like HireDevelopers to cut costs and speed up the hiring process. With HireDevelopers, you can hire blockchain developers from anywhere in the world, at any price point, in just 24 hours.

When putting together a job description or job interview for a blockchain developer, prioritize technical skills, like familiarity with key frameworks and libraries.

You should also consider using coding challenges alongside a traditional interview during the hiring process – if you’re using a pre-vetted talent pool like HireDevelopers, this has already been done for you. Coding challenges allow you to assess problem-solving skills and coding expertise in a realistic, real-time environment.

If you need help putting together a blockchain developer job description or conducting a blockchain developer job interview, you can check out our helpful and comprehensive guides below. Alternatively, to cut your time-to-hire by 90% and unlock savings of up to 80%, get in touch and book your free HireDevelopers consultation today.

Why hire Blockchain Developers with HireDevelopers?

Hiring the right blockchain developer for your team is a huge undertaking, and the process can be intimidating, especially for startups and small businesses.

At HireDevelopers, our pre-vetted, global tech talent marketplace streamlines your hiring journey and cuts time-to-hire by over 90% without compromising on quality or stretching your budget. Receive a custom shortlist of top blockchain developers at any seniority level, at any price point and located anywhere in the world within just 24 hours of your consultation.

Plus, we’ll handle all payroll, legal compliance and HR completely for free, giving you more time to start building with your new blockchain dev.

Get in touch today and start hiring top-notch blockchain developers in just 24 hours.