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How to Get a Job at a Crypto, Blockchain, or Web3 Company

Crypto, blockchain, and Web3 companies aren’t just reshaping financial services - they’re changing what careers in tech and fintech can look like. Whether you’re a developer, designer, marketer, or compliance expert, this is one of the most exciting, fast-moving corners of the job market. But how do you break in? At PaymentGenes, we work with some of the world’s most innovative payments and crypto businesses. We’ve helped engineers become founding CTOs, product managers transition into Web3 strategy roles, and compliance professionals find their niche in decentralised finance (DeFi). And here’s what we’ve learned: getting a job in crypto isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about understanding the space - and showing up ready to add value.

Getting a Job in Crypto, Blockchain, or Web3 Company - with background of crypto coins

1. Understand the Web3 Ecosystem First

Web3 is more than a buzzword. It includes everything from crypto exchanges and NFT platforms to DeFi protocols, blockchain infrastructure, DAOs, and decentralised identity solutions.

Before you start applying, explore the ecosystem:

  • Read whitepapers (yes, even just the summaries!)
  • Follow respected voices on X and LinkedIn
  • Join Discord groups or Telegram communities in areas you’re interested in
  • Listen to industry podcasts (Unchained, Bankless, etc.)
  • Track live projects on sites like DappRadar or DeFiLlama

You don’t need to become a protocol expert overnight. But showing that you understand the space - and have a perspective - gives you a major edge.

2. Translate Your Skills into Crypto Context

Don’t assume you need previous blockchain experience to apply. Many companies are looking for smart people with transferable skills.

For example:

  • If you’ve worked in compliance, highlight your experience with AML/KYC and explain how that applies to crypto risk frameworks.
  • If you’re a frontend developer, demonstrate your ability to build intuitive interfaces - then mention your interest in Web3 wallets or smart contract integration.
  • If you’re in marketing, show how you’ve built community engagement - and how that could translate to a DAO or token project.

What matters is that you can connect the dots. The most in-demand hires in crypto are often the ones who bridge traditional knowledge with decentralised ambition.

3. Get Involved - Even Before You’re Hired

Unlike traditional companies, Web3 projects are often open by design. That means you can show your value before you ever apply.

Some ideas:

  • Join Discords and contribute ideas or feedback
  • Write a blog post or LinkedIn article analysing a DeFi protocol or comparing exchanges
  • Contribute to an open-source project if you’re technical
  • Help test a beta product and share your insights

These small actions help you stand out. They show initiative. Curiosity. And they make your application much more likely to get noticed.

4. Be Flexible - and Ready to Learn

Job titles in crypto aren’t always conventional. You might see roles like “Protocol Evangelist,” “DAO Operations Lead,” or “Head of Tokenomics.” Don’t let that put you off.

The best approach? Focus on what the company is actually building - and how your skills could help them move faster, smarter, and more securely.

Also: expect change. Roles evolve quickly. Products pivot. New regulation arrives. Your learning curve will be steep - and continuous. That’s what makes it exciting.

5. Prepare for the Interview - It’s Different

Many crypto founders and hiring managers are looking for cultural alignment just as much as capability. They want people who get the mission - not just the salary.

Here’s how to prepare:

  • Read the company’s blog and documentation
  • Have a point of view on the sector - show curiosity about their users and roadmap
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions about tokenomics, governance, or business model
  • Be transparent about what you know - and what you want to learn

This isn’t about perfection. It’s about passion, pragmatism, and the ability to grow.

6. Work with People Who Know the Market

This is a space that moves fast - and where the hiring process often isn’t what you’re used to. Some companies pay in fiat, others offer token equity. Some roles are fully remote, others want timezone alignment. Some companies are registered in Switzerland, others in the Cayman Islands.

A recruiter who understands all this can make a huge difference. At PaymentGenes, we help candidates:

  • Understand the real expectations behind job specs
  • Prepare for technical and cultural interviews
  • Benchmark offers across fiat, token, and hybrid comp
  • Find companies where they can grow - not just join

Whether you’re crypto-native or crypto-curious, we’d love to help you explore the space.

Start Your Web3 Career Journey Today

A job in blockchain, crypto or Web3 isn’t just a new title - it’s a front-row seat to the future of finance and the internet. The teams are lean. The learning is constant. The impact can be huge.

So if you’re excited by what’s possible, don’t wait for the perfect listing. Start exploring. Start connecting. Start asking questions.

And when you’re ready to take the next step - we’re here to help.

Contact us

Contact our Recruitment Consultants

Experience industry-leading Payments Recruitment & Executive Search, making you consistently hire and employ disciplined payments & FinTech expertise.

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