Careers In Cryptocurrency: How To Land Your First Crypto Job

Contents

Last updated on June 10th, 2024 at 06:06 pm

Introduction

If there’s one thing everyone can agree on, it’s that “cryptocurrency” is no longer just a buzzword. In a remarkable feat, it has become the fastest tech product and industry to hit the trillion-dollar mark, achieving this milestone within 12 years of Bitcoin’s inception.

To put things in perspective, consider that it took Microsoft a staggering 44 years to reach the same valuation. With such astonishing progress, it’s hard to deny the excitement surrounding a career in crypto.

Whether you’re new to the industry or transitioning from a different field, the crypto industry offers diverse opportunities for both technical and non-technical roles. The potential for growth within the crypto industry is immense, and there is a need for professionals with diverse skill sets to contribute to its evolution.

This article provides practical advice to help you land your first crypto job and kickstart your cryptocurrency career. Unsure about where to begin? This guide will assist you in finding the perfect starting point.

A Brief Overview of the Cryptocurrency Job Market

The crypto job market has grown alongside the expansion of the industry, opening up more possibilities for building a career in crypto.

In the crypto market, there is a wide range of job opportunities available for both technical and non-technical roles. Professionals with skill sets from various industries, such as finance, legal, and PR, can pursue crypto careers. Surprisingly, some non-tech roles can even offer higher earnings than certain tech-focused positions, with an average annual salary of $105,412.

While a tech-based career in crypto may come with its juicy perks, it’s evident that the industry equally avails the same opportunities to non-tech individuals. The crypto industry has a wealth of untapped opportunities, and what truly matters is not the specific opportunity but how you approach it. Having relevant skills and expertise that contribute to the industry’s growth and success will ultimately shape your crypto career.

Popular Job Opportunities in Crypto

Crypto careers go beyond just building websites, applications, and smart contracts. Working in crypto is similar to working in other conventional industries, where different teams handle different aspects of the business. There are two main types of jobs in crypto: technical and non-technical roles.

Technical Roles in Crypto

Technical roles in the crypto industry involve creating new applications and platforms. Some high-impact technical roles in crypto include:

Data Scientist: Responsible for analyzing and interpreting data to gain insights and make informed decisions in the crypto world.
Blockchain Engineer: Responsible for creating and maintaining the technology behind blockchain systems, which are the backbone of cryptocurrencies.
Smart Contract Developer: Smart contracts are self-executing agreements on the blockchain. Developers in this role write code to create these contracts, enabling automated and secure transactions.
Machine Learning Engineer: Responsible for developing algorithms and models that help machines learn and make predictions in the crypto field.
Security Architect: These professionals focus on ensuring the security and protection of crypto systems and platforms from potential threats and attacks.
Web Developer: Responsible for building websites and online interfaces that enable users to interact with crypto applications and platforms.
Full-stack Developer: These developers have expertise in both front-end and back-end technologies. They can handle the entire development process of a crypto project.

To work in technical roles in crypto, you’ll need to acquire hard skills, such as proficiency with programming languages like JavaScript, C++, Python, and Solidity (a language for smart contracts). While it’s possible to learn programming on your own, some skills may require taking paid courses to gain the necessary knowledge and qualifications for these roles.

Non-technical Roles in Crypto

Crypto isn’t just for programmers! There are plenty of opportunities for people who aren’t tech experts too. In fact, many of the skills you already have from traditional jobs can be valuable in the crypto industry. You might need to adjust your approach a bit and learn some new things, but there are plenty of non-technical roles you can explore. Some non-technical roles in crypto include:

Financial Analyst: Responsible for analyzing and making sense of financial data related to cryptocurrencies.
Research Analyst: Responsible for studying and analyzing market trends and providing insights about different cryptocurrencies.
Legal/Compliance Expert: Compliance experts are essential for blockchain-crypto firms due to the unique regulatory challenges and risks in the industry. They stay updated on evolving regulations, including AML, KYC, data privacy, and securities regulations. Compliance experts assist in implementing AML and KYC procedures, obtaining licenses, and ensuring ongoing compliance. They focus on security, consumer protection, and cross-border compliance. Additionally, they manage compliance risks, establish internal controls, and provide training. Their expertise helps companies avoid penalties, maintain trust, and build sustainable businesses in the blockchain-crypto space.
Journalist: Responsible for writing about the latest news and developments in the crypto world.
Business Development Associate: Responsible for helping companies in the crypto industry form partnerships and expand their reach.
Technical Writer: Responsible for creating clear, easy-to-understand documentation and guides for crypto projects.
Marketing Manager: Responsible for developing strategies to promote and raise awareness about cryptocurrencies and related products.
Community Manager: Responsible for engaging with and managing online communities of crypto enthusiasts.
Graphic Designer: Responsible for creating visually appealing designs for websites, apps, and marketing materials in the crypto industry.

Why You Should Consider Working In The Crypto Industry

Working in the crypto industry can provide you with a flexible career path and a profitable way to participate in the global economy as more and more people adopt this technology. There are also unique benefits to working in crypto that you won’t find in traditional jobs. If you’re still unsure about why you should consider working in crypto, here are some reasons to think about:

You’ll be surrounded by talented individuals: In the crypto industry, you’ll have the opportunity to work with intelligent and innovative people from diverse backgrounds. Crypto startups typically have teams of skilled individuals collaborating to drive innovation. Imagine waking up every workday knowing you’re working with some of the brightest minds on the planet.
Your existing skills are valuable: A career in crypto doesn’t render your traditional job skills useless. Your skills can be applied in the crypto industry, allowing you to adapt quickly. For example, you could work as a data analyst or marketing manager for a crypto company without needing in-depth knowledge of crypto itself.
The industry has significant growth potential: By pursuing a career in crypto, you’ll be entering an industry that represents the future of finance. While already worth trillions of dollars, crypto is still in its early stages, leaving ample room for development. By joining teams that create innovative products and services, you’ll not only be a pioneer in this new industry but also create opportunities for others.
Enjoy flexibility and decent compensation: Many crypto jobs offer remote work options, allowing you to work from anywhere in the world. You could secure a crypto job in a different country and still work from the comfort of your own home. Additionally, while money may not be your sole motivation, a career in crypto can provide fair compensation for your efforts.

How to Land Your First Crypto Job

Getting your first job is always the hardest, especially in a unique industry like crypto. But it doesn’t have to be so difficult. Below are some simple measures to help accelerate your journey to landing your first crypto job.

Educate Yourself: The number one rule to building a career in crypto is understanding how it works. You don’t have to be an expert, but having a solid grasp of the basics is important. Read crypto materials, attend conferences, and stay updated with industry trends. This knowledge helps you to explain crypto products and services to others and impress potential employers.
Gain Relevant Experience: Knowing the theoretical aspect of crypto is not enough; you need practical skills. Simply because you’ve made a few trades on a decentralized exchange doesn’t guarantee you a role as a financial analyst at a crypto company. Look for opportunities to gain experience, such as freelancing, volunteering at crypto startups, or applying for internships. This will help you find your niche and determine what kind of job you want in the crypto industry.
Showcase Your Skills: Employers value a track record of success. Demonstrate your skills in a practical environment. For example, if you want to be a community manager, start managing your own crypto community. Sometimes, landing a job in crypto may require more than a regular resume. You can create an on-chain resume showcasing your blockchain activity, like setting up a wallet and making transactions. This shows your understanding of the technology and how to use it.
Build a Network: Though cliche, ‘your network is your net worth’ still rings true in all aspects of the crypto industry. The people you know or have access to can significantly impact your career. Connect with founders and other professionals in the industry. Someone who knows many crypto industry founders may find it easier to get a job in crypto than someone who does not; however, this is not to say that knowing founders is the only way to get a crypto job. Being part of a crypto community can also help you get noticed and recommended for job opportunities. Building a strong network opens doors to opportunities you may not have access to otherwise.
Be Open-Minded: The crypto industry is dynamic, and opportunities can come from unexpected sources. Stay open-minded and be willing to explore different roles or departments within the industry. Freelance work can also provide valuable experience and lead to more permanent job opportunities.
Be Consistent: Crypto rewards consistency. Show up consistently and be available when opportunities arise. The industry is competitive, and being proactive and consistent will increase your chances of landing your first crypto job.

Ways You Can Break Into the Crypto Job Space

You don’t need a fancy degree to get a job in crypto. All you need is a chance to showcase your knowledge and skills. However, you have to actively seek out opportunities; they won’t just come to you. Think of the methods of entry listed below as a menu; pick and choose what you like and believe will work best for you.

1. Intern at a crypto or blockchain company

Applying for an internship at a crypto or blockchain company is a great way to learn more about the industry. You’ll have the chance to work with experienced professionals and gain valuable insights. This internship can help you decide if a career in crypto is right for you.

2. Volunteer – offer your assistance

Offering your help at a crypto company can provide you with hands-on experience. Like interning, volunteering allows you to build your resume and network with industry experts. The advantage is that you have more flexibility in terms of time commitment.

3. Leverage the power of social media – especially Twitter

Crypto Twitter (CT) is notoriously known for many celebrities shilling their favourite meme coins, it’s one of the best places to be if you want to share your thoughts, stay updated, and learn more about crypto. This is because some of the brightest minds in crypto use Twitter to reach out to their communities and build their brands.

One of the fascinating stories about people making the most of Twitter to break into Crypto is Colton Sakamoto, the co-founder of Crypto Jobs. In an episode of the Pomp Podcast titled ‘How To Get A New Job In Crypto,’ Pomp and Colton talk about Colton grabbing his attention by continuously sending him ‘fire memes’ on Twitter.

He offered Colton the opportunity to work with him on a project. Colton initially started juggling this project with his day job. Colton eventually began working on Crypto Jobs full-time as the platform gained more traction.

4. Follow influential profiles on Twitter

Several influential figures in the crypto world regularly share valuable insights on Twitter. Some recommended profiles to follow on Twitter include:

In addition to Twitter, other social media platforms that are important for crypto include:

Reddit
Discord
Telegram

5. Share your crypto knowledge

One of the best ways to show your crypto knowledge is to write about it. Writing is one of the best skills you can leverage to get a job in crypto. Many big names in the industry, like Derek Hsue, Kyle Samani, and Myles Snider, started out by writing blogs about blockchain and crypto topics.

Every type of writer has the potential to excel in the crypto and blockchain industry due to the vast array of niches covered. For instance, if you don’t feel comfortable writing opinion pieces, you can always use your skills and knowledge to write technical documents and break down complex crypto topics for others.

Anyone can be a writer; all you need is the courage to put your opinion out there, the discipline to practice and improve, and a will to get things done. Creating a blog is as simple as owning a Medium account, so get started now!

6. Attend crypto-focused meetups and events

Meetups and events are great opportunities to meet people already working in the crypto industry. Unlike conferences, these gatherings are often free and offer internships or volunteering opportunities.

Tips and Tricks On How To Find Job Openings In Crypto

If you’re interested in finding a job in the crypto industry, there are a few ways you can go about it. Here are some tips that can help:

Check crypto job boards: Crypto job boards are websites where you can find job openings, specifically in the crypto industry. Some popular ones are Blockew, Cryptocurrency Jobs, and CryptoJobList. These job boards allow you to search for jobs and even subscribe to notifications for new job listings.
Visit crypto project websites: Many crypto projects have their own websites where they may list available job positions. Take some time to explore the websites of projects that align with your interests and values. Look for their career or jobs section to see if there are any openings. If there aren’t any current openings, but you believe you can make a positive impact on the project, you can still reach out to them through their official email and express your interest in joining their team. Your message should be articulate and compelling enough to prompt a response.
Build your network: In the crypto industry, connections can be just as important as experience. Engage with like-minded individuals who share your interests by joining communities or groups related to cryptocurrencies or specific areas like decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). Often, when there are job vacancies in a crypto project, the development team prefers to hire someone from their community. Actively participating in these communities can leave a positive impression on potential employers and increase your chances of being considered for a job.
Look for projects that have raised funds: When crypto projects raise funds, they often have plans to expand their teams. Keep an eye out for new or existing projects that have recently raised funds, as they may be looking to hire new employees. You can stay informed about fundraising efforts through Twitter accounts like CryptoResearch, which often announce project achievements and funding news.
Stay updated on industry trends: The crypto industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving. To stay relevant, it’s important to actively research and stay informed about industry trends and innovations. This can involve reading publications that cover crypto news and concepts, such as DeFi-Planet. Additionally, building a network of individuals who share similar interests can provide valuable learning opportunities and keep you updated on industry developments.

What’s the Level of Job Security in the Crypto Industry?

Career opportunities in the crypto industry can be exciting, but they also come with a level of uncertainty. It’s crucial to consider the credibility and potential for career growth before diving into the deep end.

Unsurprisingly, many believe that deciding to work in the cryptocurrency industry is akin to gambling or placing a bet on the industry’s future. Unlike more established industries like medicine or finance, the crypto industry is relatively new and hasn’t proven its long-term stability. Traditional industries often have structures in place that provide job security, but the same cannot be said for the crypto industry.

Another concern is the industry’s reliance on the performance of the crypto market. Due to the market’s extreme volatility, conditions can quickly turn unfavourable. Sudden market downturns can result in companies folding and many people losing their jobs (as we’ve seen largely through 2022–2023).

The specific role an employee plays in a crypto company, as well as the company’s overall strength, are important factors in determining job security. During layoffs in the crypto industry, junior staff with entry-level positions are usually the hardest hit.

Working for a crypto startup, of course, carries more risk than working for an established crypto company. Unfortunately, most crypto companies are startups with little room for error. Being employed by a startup that fails to grow can turn out to be career suicide.

While it’s difficult to claim that a career in the crypto industry offers the same level of job security as traditional industries, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals in this field. Securing a job with an established crypto company in an environment with fair crypto regulations may offer better job security within the industry.

Career Growth Potential in the Crypto Industry

The potential for career advancement in the crypto industry is incredibly high. If you can adapt quickly to changes, you can take advantage of the innovative nature of crypto and learn a lot in a short amount of time.

The crypto industry is quite dynamic, and you may find yourself working in different roles. For example, a crypto content developer might also need to handle marketing tasks and excel in both areas. This kind of environment provides a great opportunity to learn a wide range of skills.

Working in crypto may also involve taking on leadership roles and completing tasks with minimal supervision. In a fast-paced industry like this, senior employees may be occupied with other growth activities, putting the onus on other employees to step up and take charge. For someone just starting a career in crypto, this experience offers an opportunity to learn quickly and be well-prepared for leadership positions in the future.

Working in crypto can also expose you to many resources that can help you create exciting new projects and may even inspire you to start your own crypto business.

Importance of Continuous Education and Training in Cryptocurrency Careers

To have a successful career in crypto, it’s important to keep learning and improving. The crypto industry is constantly evolving, so it’s crucial to stay updated on the latest trends and adapt to new job requirements. The industry’s competitiveness makes it imperative to upskill to stay ahead of other professionals who are also competing for similar jobs. Having a solid understanding of the industry can lead to higher earnings and better job security.

Online platforms like Alison, Blockchain Council, and LinkedIn provide continuing education resources for crypto professionals. Attending crypto-related conferences and training events is also a great way to connect and build relationships with other professionals in the field.

As the industry navigates the current murky regulatory landscape, continuous education and training will equip professionals with the necessary industry knowledge to comply with established regulations.

In Conclusion,

Working in the crypto industry is not too different from working in traditional fields you may be familiar with. The crypto industry has achieved amazing things in a very short time, like reaching a trillion-dollar value. It offers many opportunities for people willing to join the trend. Working in crypto provides:

More flexibility.
The chance to work remotely.
The potential for incredible growth that you won’t find in other industries.

You don’t have to be a software developer or programmer to work in crypto. It’s open to anyone with practical skills. Even being a social media manager for a crypto company can be a great job (with salaries ranging between $33,000 and $150,000 annually). There has never been a better time to be part of this fast-paced industry.

Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered trading or investment advice. Nothing herein should be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Trading or investing in cryptocurrencies carries a considerable risk of financial loss. Always conduct due diligence.

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