Why Entry-Level Crypto Jobs Are Vanishing: The Rise of Experience-Driven Hiring

The scarcity of entry-level opportunities in the cryptocurrency industry has intensified in 2025, according to a report from venture capital firm Dragonfly Capital. The firm's analysis of 85 crypto companies and 3,400 employee and candidate data points revealed that only 10% of roles in the sector are entry-level, a stark contrast to the industry's broader appeal. Senior and principal-level positions account for 37% of roles, with engineering dominating 67% of total headcount. This trend underscores a shift toward hiring experienced professionals, driven by the aftermath of numerous failed crypto projects and a cautious hiring environment despite a bullish market.

Dragonfly Capital noted that the crypto industry's net hiring turned negative in the first half of 2025, marked by initial growth in January, a February tariff shock, and reactive layoffs in March. Entry-level employees were disproportionately affected, with reduced salaries and token packages partially offset by higher equity allocations. Kevin Gibson, founder of recruitment firm Proof of Search, confirmed that the findings align with his observations, attributing the trend to the collapse of projects post-token generation events. These failures have created a surplus of seasoned professionals, giving employers leverage to prioritize experienced candidates.

The report highlights a disconnect between the industry's perceived appeal and its hiring realities. While 34% of global crypto holders are aged 24–35, as per a Triple-A report, entry-level opportunities remain scarce. Matt Thompson, founder of TRB Executive Search, warned that market volatility could deter younger candidates from pursuing crypto careers, contrasting with the stability offered by traditional finance. The sector's reliance on senior talent has intensified, with firms prioritizing experienced hires to accelerate project delivery amid regulatory and market uncertainties.

The U.S. and Europe remain dominant in crypto hiring, but the landscape is evolving. Regulatory clarity, such as the U.S. GENIUS Act and the EU's MiCA framework, has spurred hiring in the U.S. in 2025, with companies like Coinbase and Ripple expanding domestic operations. However, entry-level roles remain limited, as firms focus on retaining and recruiting seasoned professionals. The collapse of over 1.8 million crypto projects since 2021-driven by platforms like Pump.fun-has further concentrated talent in senior roles, exacerbating the scarcity for newcomers.

The implications for the industry are significant. While the crypto market's institutional adoption and technological advancements continue to attract investment, the lack of entry-level opportunities may hinder long-term growth. Gibson emphasized that the market's current structure favors experienced candidates, making it challenging for early-career professionals to break into the field. Thompson added that the volatility inherent to crypto could further discourage younger generations from pursuing careers in the sector, potentially stifling innovation.

Dragonfly Capital's findings reflect a broader industry trend: the prioritization of stability and expertise over accessibility. As crypto firms navigate regulatory and market challenges, the demand for specialized skills in engineering, compliance, and AI integration continues to rise. However, the absence of a robust pipeline for entry-level talent raises questions about the sector's sustainability and inclusivity.

[1] Cointelegraph (https://cointelegraph.com/news/crypto-jobs-entry-level-scarce-dragonfly-capital-survey)

[2] Cointelegraph (https://cointelegraph.com/news/crypto-companies-ramp-up-us-hiring-in-2025-amid-regulatory-clarity)