Blockchain Developer Salary Guide: How Much Can You Make?

Blockchains are decentralised and encrypted databases that provide a prime example of disruptive technology. A report from Deloitte and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) points to how blockchain is already transforming sectors, including private sector banks, international trade, manufacturing and trade, and more, with its ability to speed payments and the cycle time of other processes, such as paying suppliers, discounting bills, and document management [1]. 

Even as technology finds use cases, the value of its applications has become apparent in recent years. These circumstances mean the global demand for blockchain developers is high [2]. 

In addition to promising opportunities, the field also offers solid earning power. Learn more about the average compensation and explore blockchain developer salary insights and career opportunities below.

What does a blockchain developer do?

A blockchain developer designs, develops, and tests blockchain systems and applications. You’ll find two types of blockchain developers: core and software. Core blockchain developers work on system architecture. They manage cybersecurity measures and supervise the blockchain network. Blockchain software developers design and create applications for blockchain platforms.

Blockchain developer requirements

You’ll discover several ways for aspiring blockchain developers to gain the expertise needed to perform an entry-level role:

• Degrees: Blockchain developers in India often have bachelor’s degrees in areas like computer science or information security at a minimum. Some pursue a master’s in blockchain technology, a specialised option some universities in India and globally offer. 

• Skills development: To succeed in this position, you’ll need a robust set of skills, including networking, programming languages like Python and Solidity, working with smart contracts, web development, and excellent communication and problem-solving skills. 

• Professional Certificates: Degrees are not the only way to prepare yourself for a role in blockchain development. Employers may accept or even prefer candidates with certifications in relevant areas of expertise or credentials you can earn by completing comprehensive online programmes. For example, someone interested in becoming a blockchain software engineer may consider the IBM DevOps and Software Engineering Professional Certificate.

• A combination of credentials and experience: You won’t find any single one-size-fits-all approach to learning how to become a blockchain developer. You can start as a fresher or transition into blockchain development from a related field. Creating your portfolio by participating in events like hackathons or personal projects can help smooth your path forward. 

Blockchain developer salary

Glassdoor India’s October 2024 data puts the average blockchain developer's salary across all years of experience at ₹5,00,000 to ₹10,00,000 [2]. Glassdoor bases its calculations on information collected by employers and employees who use the Glassdoor platform. 

It also offers insight into how your experience level can impact your earning power, as illustrated in the list below [2].

• Entry-level (up to 1 year): ₹5,00,000 

• Early career (1–3 years): ₹6,00,000

• Mid-career: (4–6 years): ₹10,00,000

Comparing salary insights from several sources is an excellent way to gain a broader perspective of the blockchain industry. For example, AmbitionBox reports an average annual salary of ₹9,40,000 across all years of experience, with freshers making an average of ₹7,40,000 and those with five years of professional experience earning ₹14,00,000 on average [3]. 

To learn more about the salary ranges from specific companies, consider searching for salary information by the employer. 

Blockchain developer jobs

Blockchain technology is growing in popularity, as is the demand for blockchain professionals, including blockchain developers. The following sections examine blockchain developer career paths, requirements, and courses that may help you get started. 

Core blockchain developer

Job duties

• Management of blockchain network security

• Integrations between blockchains and other services

• Development and optimisation of blockchain protocols

Essential skills

• Cybersecurity 

• Software development

• Data structurisation

• Blockchain architecture

Getting started

• Applied Cryptography Specialisation from the University of Colorado

Blockchain software developer

Job duties

• Develop software and applications for blockchain platforms

• Research and maintain blockchain infrastructure

• Implement software features and verify functionality

Essential skills

• Decentralised application (dApp) expertise

• End-to-end software design and development

• Knowledge of blockchain architecture

• Data structurisation

Getting started

• Decentralised Applications (Dapps) from the University at Buffalo, the State University of New York

Smart contract engineer 

Job duties

• Develop smart contracts

• Audit smart contracts

• Translate business goals into technical requirements

• Communicate with users

Essential skills

• Smart contract programming languages like Solidity

• Business expertise

• Software development and testing 

Getting started

• Smart Contracts from the University at Buffalo, the State University of New York

Blockchain quality engineer

Job duties

• Ensure and manage the quality of blockchain development

• Write and implement software testing

• Handle automation initiatives and dashboards

Essential skills

• Engineering

• Project management

• Software development and testing

Getting started

• Engineering Project Management from Rice University

Get ahead with Coursera

Blockchain technology is relatively new, but if you have the right skills, experience, and qualifications, you can find various high-paying jobs. Continue learning and building your skills on Coursera.

If you are new to the field, consider taking an introductory course like Meta's What Is the Metaverse? or Blockchain Foundations and Use Cases from ConsenSys Academy. Those transitioning from a related job may benefit from a narrower focus, like Blockchain Business Models or Decentralised Finance Infrastructure, both offered by Duke University.