Area of Expertise

I have built and deployed 2 web applications to production (this site included). The other site is <a rel="noopener" target="_blank" href="https://puzzlegang.org">PuzzleGang.org</a>. Both websites involve complex state management, advanced UX/UI. <a rel="noopener" target="_blank" href="https://puzzlegang.org">PuzzleGang.org</a> is actively used daily by a global community. It has role-based access control for content creation, and automated puzzle rotations. I have also made complex Discord bots that serve variety of purposes, such as executing cryptocurrency transactions, conducting collaborative crossword games,  and holding stateful PvE+PvP battles with user assets.

Frontend

With extensive experience in NextJS and Django, I have developed robust backends that serve as REST endpoints, manage data flow, and handle user sessions. My projects have leveraged databases such as MongoDB, PostgreSQL, and MySQL. I have facilitated seamless data transactions, ensured server-side validation, and implemented security measures. In addition to coding, I've also handled aspects of deployment, proving my adaptability and versatility in handling full-stack projects end-to-end.

Backend

I have a strong understanding of managing server environments and network configurations. My expertise includes setting up and maintaining secure, efficient systems using NixOS and Docker, with a focus on automating tasks through scripting. I'm familiar with implementing security measures like fail2ban, secret encryption, and principal of least privilege. I am aware of how to maintain data redundancy through routine backup scripts. My problem-solving skills are proven by effectively handling critical incidents and troubleshooting issues. While I continuously seek to expand my knowledge, especially in in regards to more advanced cloud infrastructure setups (e.g. horizontal scaling), my foundational skills form a solid base for effective systems administration.

Systems Administration

My DevOps skills come with my extensive experience with NixOS, Docker, and system automation. My proficiency in scripting and Nix expressions enables me to efficiently automate infrastructure tasks. I am adept at managing containerized applications in production environments, utilizing Docker Compose and custom systemd service units. My experience in incident management is proven by successfully resolving critical server issues. While I continuously seek to expand my knowledge, especially in areas like automated monitoring and advanced cloud services, my foundational skills and adaptive learning approach form a solid base for my DevOps expertise.

DevOps

My experience primarily comes from doing boxes on HackTheBox. I am comfortable attacking web applications and Linux systems, having done up to hard boxes for those categories. I need more practice with exploiting Windows machines and binary executables.

PenTesting

Although I work independently as a developer, I developed my Project Cycle Management skills through collaboration with a certified Scrum Master. Among the things I've learned are managing ticket boards,  backlogs,  ticket updates, and ongoing development and bug fixtures. This collaboration has helped me understand the dynamics of teamwork under a Scrum Master, and following agile principles. Furthermore, I have been guided through comprehensive testing maintenance routines. This combination of practices has provided me with a foundational understanding of an efficient Agile development cycle.

Project Cycle Experience

Language

The most complex thing I've made with Go is an application that scans local file directories for images, vectorizes them, and enables local image search and de-duplication. I have experience with using Go to make CLI tools and web servers. I am comfortable with many of its features, but could use more practice coordinating goroutines.

I use NixOS as a daily driver, as well as on my remote servers.  I am comfortable with composing complex modules that involve interplay between many services, like systemd, iptables, nginx, and docker altogether. I have utilized a lot of Nix's toolings in building things such as docker images and developer environments. I have developed a strong sense of functional programming.

I have used python extensively in my applications, namely in  complex Discord bots and Django. I am familiar with its advanced concepts and practices, as well as project management and packaging.

Python

I use this exclusively instead of Javascript. I mainly use it in the context of ReactJS/NextJS, so I'm very comfortable in that environment. However, since those frameworks don't use class-based OOP often, that is an area I could get more familiar with.

TypeScript

Technology Proficiency

ReactJS is my bread and butter. I have a deep understanding of core design principles of React and can proficiently design and troubleshoot complex behaviors. My knowledge includes all the fundamental APIs and extends to bleeding-edge APIs such as the NextJS App router and React Server Components. My experience with Next.js complements my React skills, as I'm well-versed in its server-side rendering capabilities, static site generation and API route handling. I built <a href="https://puzzlegang.org" rel="noopener">PuzzleGang.org</a> as a React SPA (Single Page Application), while this website, was built using React and Next.js. My skills can be showcased through both sites.

ReactJS & Next.js

I have hands-on experience a variety of SQL databases such as Sqlite, MySQL, and PostgreSQL. Beyond basic CRUD operations, I have managed complex tasks such as configuring roles. setting permissions, database backup and restoration. I possess solid knowledge of advanced concepts including the usage of views/materialized views, triggers, functions and transactions. I have applied these skills to optimize data handling and query performance.

SQL (esp. PostgreSQL)

I've utilized MongoDB before as a database for my applications.  Its usage was mainly for  basic CRUD operations. Although my experience is limited, I do have a fundamental understanding of the NoSQL data model and its organization into collections.

MongoDB

I have utilized Django extensively, mainly to serve as the REST API for a frontend interface. I am well-versed with Django's general architecture and have set up custom authentication methods using JSON Web Tokens (JWTs) for user session tracking. Furthermore, I've implemented caching using Redis to enhance performance. While I have Django connected to a database, my experience using Django's ORM, specifically its migrations, is limited. Moreover, I have not yet utilized its static site features to their fullest extent.

Django

I have solid experience with using Git for version control across multiple projects. I am proficient in performing advanced operations beyond the usual pull and clone commands. I'm familiar with managing multiple branches, switching contexts, and selectively checking out files, stashing changes, merging/rebasing changes, and resolving merge conflicts. I have the understanding necessary to help maintain collaborative codebases in Git.

I have written applications integrated with the Ethereum ecosystem, utilized user wallets with MetaMask/WalletConnect for user authentication and message signing/verification. I developed a Discord bot capable of transferring funds between Ethereum wallets following an approval process. I am familiar with associated services like IPFS, layer 2 solutions, I have a basic understanding smart contracts. The majority of my experience involves utilizing pre-existing services within the Ethereum ecosystem, rather than on-chain development.

Ethereum/Web3

I have a good understanding of CI/CD principles and practices, primarily using GitHub Actions for deployment workflows. I manage a diverse range of applications on my server, ensuring smooth operations and security. While my CI/CD experience is currently on a more foundational level, I'm adept at Docker containerization and have a proactive approach to learning and integrating new technologies. I'm comfortable with basic CI/CD features and continuously expand my skills to encompass more advanced practices.

Skills

Areas of Expertise

Systems AdministrationLvl. 775%

Languages

Technology Proficiencies

Skills Key