How to Become Blockchain Security Engineer? Part 2
Are you tired of hearing that blockchain security is only for geniuses with PhDs? Wrong.
In this guide (Part 2), you'll learn practical skills to protect blockchains; believe me, no fancy degree needed.
Let's explore how to do it.
Skills Required for Becoming a Blockchain Security Engineer
(You Need to Outsmart Hackers)
It is like becoming a detective for the blockchain codes and smart contracts.
Interesting?
Your tools? An old laptop, endless coffee, and the skills below.
Let's get started!
Technical Skills for Blockchain Security Engineer
(Learn These First)
1. Smart Contract Auditing
In simple words, smart contract auditing is finding coding errors in smart contracts.
Use tools like MythX (think "Grammarly for coders") or Slither (free and fast).
Why it matters: Last year, hackers stole $50M because of a "reentrancy bug." MythX spots these bugs fast. Fix them, and you save the day.
2. DeFi Security
Flash loans let people borrow millions in seconds. Sounds cool. But hackers use them to crash prices and disappear. Learn from mistakes—like how PancakeBunny lost $10M in 2021 [link].
3. Cryptography Basics
ZK-SNARKs: Prove something without sharing secrets (used in privacy coins like Zcash).
Hashing: Turn data into a unique code. Change one letter, and the whole code changes. Hackers hate this!
Soft Skills for Blockchain Security Engineer
(Your Secret Weapon)
1. Storytelling for Non-Tech People
CEOs don't care about "zero-knowledge proofs."
Explanation of risks in simple language to a non techie person is an art; if you have that skill, it's an additional plus.
Use simple language like
"This bug is like leaving your car unlocked. Anyone can steal it. Let me add a lock."
I learned this the hard way: Once, I used too much tech jargon, and my client fell asleep. Now, I use pizza analogies. ("Your blockchain is a pizza. Hackers want a slice. Let's lock the box!")
2. Be a "Why?" Machine
Hackers hide in tiny details. Always ask:
Why did that transaction fail?
Why does this code let users withdraw funds before checking their balance?
How to Learn Blockchain Security:
Free Resources to understand basics
Solidity Docs: I know it's Boring but essential.
Find flaws in real projects, earn money, and say, "I got paid to break stuff."
Recommended Certifications for Blockchain Security Engineers:
CBSP:
The Certified Blockchain Security Professional by Blockchain Council helps people understand how to keep blockchain systems safe. It covers everything professionals need to know about securing blockchain technology.
CEH ($1,199):
Learn to think like a hacker. Ask your boss to pay—the worst they'll say is no.
Build a Portfolio (Even If You're New)
1. Audit a Meme Coin
(Yes, Really)
Step 1: Go to Etherscan.io. Find a joke coin like DogeMoon or ShibaXYZ.
Step 2: Use Slither to scan its code. Look for "reentrancy risks" or "unchecked transfers."
Step 3: Write a 1-page report something like I Found 3 risks. Here's how to fix them.
Step 4: Post it on GitHub/LinkedIn. Title it How I Saved a XYZ Coin From Collapsing.
Why this works: Even silly projects have real code. You'll show employers you can find and explain risks.
2. Join a DAO
(It's Free!)
DAOs are online groups where people manage blockchains. Here's how to start:
Join BanklessDAO or OlympusDAO on Discord.
Ask questions like, "How do I stop a 51% attack while eating pizza?"
Offer to review code for small projects.
You can start with messages like "I'm new, but I'll help for free."
3. Share Your Mistakes
Do not shy while telling others about mistakes you made while learning. Write hook posts around the same, explaining the mistake and how to find the resolution. It will increase your credibility.
Employers love honesty. It shows you're learning, not pretending.
What's Next?
In Part 3, I'll show you how to land a $200K job:
Resume tips (never write "Blockchain Wizard").
LinkedIn tricks to make recruiters message you first.
Salary negotiation secrets ("More pizza parties" isn't a benefit, Karen).
Got questions? Or a story about a crypto fail? Share below! (I'll reply—unless I'm in a coffee coma. ☕)
P.S. Missed Part 1? Catch up . No shame—we all start somewhere.
https://artofblockchain.club/article/how-to-become-blockchain-security-engineer-part-1