How to Get a Job in Crypto (2024)

As demand to trade digital assets continues to rise, so do cryptocurrency job openings. If you want to turn your passion for cryptocurrency from a hobby into an occupation, there is no better time to make that leap than now. A report that pulled data from Indeed showed a 118% increase in cryptocurrency-related job postings since September 2020.

Despite the industry demand for new hires, entering the crypto market isn’t easy. You’ll need to have a good idea of the type of job you want to land and the skillset to match. Here are some tips to get started.

Getting started: choosing a crypto sector

The first step of getting a job in the crypto industry is to identify your niche. With every job title comes a different set of qualifications, roles and requirements. Here are some of the most popular sectors under the umbrella of cryptocurrency jobs and some of the skills that typically accompany roles that are relevant to those areas.

Blockchain development

Blockchain developers are the most in-demand people right now in the crypto industry. According to the 2021 Global Blockchain Employment Report, global demand for blockchain developers is expected to increase 300%-500% yearly. Blockchain developers are also one of the highest-paying roles among cryptocurrency jobs with an annual average salary of $123,750. To be competitive for this role, you’ll need hard programming skills. The main programming languages used include C++, C#, ,Solidity GO, JavaScript and Python, although it’s always worth checking with a recruiter which languages are preferable for your chosen company.

Entry-level job opportunities:

Journalism

When it comes to cryptocurrency journalism, there are two main qualities that editorial organizations will look for in talent: strong writing ability and strong crypto knowledge. Although many journalists can lean on one or the other, having both will give you the best chance of landing a job in the competitive market. There are a number of crypto-focused university courses and certifications available to provide you with a solid understanding of the industry, along with a range of free online training options.

If you’re an aspiring cryptocurrency journalist but lack the experience of a competitive candidate, consider submitting freelance articles to publications to build up a portfolio of work. Most organizations will gladly accept freelance work paid for on a per-article basis. That serves as a good way to build connections in the industry. A quick search for “crypto journalist” on LinkedIn’s job board yields more than 3,000 results.

Entry-level job opportunities:

Venture capital

For every hot crypto startup trying to change the world, there’s a venture capital firm behind the scenes funding its operations. Working in cryptocurrency venture capital is a lot like its traditional finance counterpart. To work in this field, you’ll need a solid understanding of economics, financial modeling and entrepreneurial savvy. Roles in the sector are some of the more competitive and highest paid jobs in the crypto industry.

Entry-level job opportunities:

Mining

If you’re interested in a more hands-on, tech-focused career in cryptocurrency, look no further than working for a crypto mining company. There are plenty of jobs centered around maintaining the data centers and mining plants that require a variety of skills, such as an understanding of electrical systems and engineering ability. Think of jobs you would find at a power plant, but for mining cryptocurrencies like bitcoin. Mining companies also frequently require content writers, marketing staff and other administrative roles, making them a great entry point for aspiring crypto professionals.

Entry-level job opportunities:

Network, network, network

When it comes to getting a cryptocurrency job, who you know can be as important as the skills you possess. This industry is all about networking, and so whether you’re a journalist looking to find a scoop or a startup founder looking for investors, making connections is key to advancing your career. While the crypto community is heavily online, don’t underestimate the value of attending in-person meetups and conventions. Conventions and conferences are a great place to get your feet wet and meet people who work in the industry. And don’t overlook the value of smaller meetups hosted by specific companies or projects, usually in large metropolitan areas. Because crypto is still a relatively new industry, it’s much easier to connect directly with senior executives than it is in traditional finance.

Resources for finding crypto events:

Immerse yourself in the industry

Another important step for anyone looking to join the industry is to immerse yourself in it. This can include things such as:

If you do those things, you’ll stand a much better chance of impressing any crypto employer and showing you’re serious (and passionate) about entering the industry.

Further reading

Blockchain technology eliminates the need for a trusted party to facilitate digital relationships and is the backbone of cryptocurrencies.

A decentralized autonomous organization, or DAO, is an organization that’s governed by code instead of leaders.

At their peak in 2017, ICOs had overtaken venture capital as the main fundraising method for blockchain startups.