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Hi there!

I am an Uruguayan Software Engineer in Aotearoa, New Zealand 🇺🇾 🇳🇿

I create web solutions that provide you with independence and control in your business.

About

I am a Software Engineer passionate about creating web-based systems. I focus on front-end technologies like React, but I also have experience in full-stack development. I volunteer with Python at a local wildlife sanctuary and always strive to learn more.

When I am not busy coding, I enjoy exploring the great outdoors in various ways. I have road trips in my campervan, capture fantastic scenery with my drone, play football and basketball, or move around rollerblading, snowboarding, and scuba diving. My curiosity drives me to dig into new languages, activities, and cultures, practice card magic, experiment with cooking recipes, music, and more.

I aim to create systems with seamless interfaces that make technology easy to use and enjoyable for everyone. I think that almost anyone can create software that solves something, regardless of whether they are a curious beginner or a seasoned expert. That's why I also love sharing my experiences and knowledge and documenting my learning journey through blog posts. If you fancy, you can look at it on my website.

I am an entrepreneur at heart, always looking for new challenges and learning opportunities that resonate with my values. Collaborating with talented and magnificent human beings on real-world issues fuels my creativity and drive, teaches me more about myself, and helps me fine-tune the direction I want to move towards. I'm just a message away if you want to chat, collaborate, or geek out about the latest tech trends.

I'm excited to stay connected and explore new horizons together! 😊

experience

Software Engineer · Squarekicker

Apr 2024 — Present

I am currently focused on developing our Marketplace and Template Store apps. These apps enable creators to publish templates for Squarespace users. Users can then purchase these templates through the Store, allowing them to create customised websites without needing coding expertise.

In my role, I collaborate with our team to implement new features and extend the existing codebase. I also suggest improvements to enhance the product's maintainability, performance, and user/developer experience. I explore new platform possibilities that align with our start-up's evolving nature. It's my responsibility to stay updated with SquareKicker tools, products, and industry trends and keep informed about Squarespace updates and the evolution of my favourite front-end libraries and frameworks, such as React and NextJS.

My passion lies in creating systems with seamless interfaces that make technology accessible and enjoyable for everyone. This user-centric approach is at the core of my work at SquareKicker, where I can combine my software engineering skills with my entrepreneurial and creative spirit. This unique blend enables me to tackle new challenges and learning opportunities across various aspects of the business.

Vercel

Stripe

MaterialUI

DevOps

UX / UI

Figma

CSS

Typescript

GraphQL

NextJS

React

Strapi

Front-End Engineer · Neromotion

Jan — Dec 2023

As the principal developer for NextJS, I was responsible for leading the development of VetDesk. A comprehensive platform that caters to websites serving veterinary clinics.

The platform has many pre-built features, including appointment management, medical history, e-commerce, user management, product subscriptions, and payment transfers using Stripe. Each customer's information is managed using a CMS (Contentful), and an in-house fetch library was built to support business-specific needs. Additionally, clients can choose from various website design options, including components, website palettes, typographies, and animations. Therefore, the platform must be highly configurable, scalable, and maintainable.

Apart from VetDesk, I developed a boilerplate project that simplifies data layer generation and API requests to Contentful using GraphQL. This project includes many features, such as easily configurable localisation, server-side static-generated routes that use webhooks to rebuild whenever the content is updated, and much more. This project aimed to establish a solid foundation for future NextJS projects, ensuring that they are set up for success.

NextJS

React

TailwindCSS

GraphQL

Typescript

SQL

Nx

Figma

Postman

UX / UI

DevOps

Framer Motion

Storybook

Full-Stack Engineer · Sandfield

Aug 2018 — Jan 2023

I was initially brought in to enhance Mainfreight's daily operation systems, which served as my gateway into the dynamic world of supply chain logistics. In this role, I was responsible for developing new features and maintaining and optimising the existing single-page application (SPA). This system efficiently managed an impressive load of over 230,000 consignments weekly, spanning Australasia and the United States.

After two years, I took on an expanded role and dove into the core maintenance of the supply chain framework. At the same time, I spearheaded the creation of a versatile front-end framework using React. This innovative framework maximised the reuse of our backend and provided extensive adaptability. It catered to freight movements and diversified into managing farm supplies, livestock, vehicle imports, and even intricate logistics involving prisoners' transport from cells to the courthouse and back.

My commitment extended beyond technical expertise. I actively engaged in soft-skills workshops, mastering effective communication, ethical influencing, and public speaking. Additionally, I participated in internal programs to welcome new colleagues, both technically and socially, introducing them to the company.

React

Typescript

SQL

CSS

.NET

Javascript

DevOps

UX / UI

HTML

Microsoft SQL Server

MaterialUI

React Native

Full-Stack Developer | System Architect · SISGE

Mar 2016 — Mar 2018

This bachelor's thesis project aims to modernise and streamline the internal operations of IMPO, the National Direction of Impressions and Official Publications, an institution based in Uruguay. The project focuses on creating and implementing a File Management System called "SisGE," a key aspect of this initiative.

IMPO's significant revenue source involves managing requests from various Uruguayan state agencies for printing graphic materials. These requests must adhere to current regulations or carry public, educational, or cultural significance as outlined by the Presidency of the Republic or the Ministry of Education and Culture. The materials range widely, including books, posters, flyers, and brochures.

The project aims to optimise the "Third-party printing requests" process, which relies heavily on manual paper-based documentation, resulting in a complex and time-consuming workflow. The proposed solution offers several benefits, including creating a tailored system specific to IMPO's needs, real-time process monitoring capabilities, increased revenue through a more efficient workflow, automated manual tasks for cost reduction, and improved organisation, leading to fewer errors.

The final score for this project was an impressive 97/100, and the company is still running 😃

SQL

Javascript

.NET

HTML

DevOps

UX / UI

CSS

Microsoft SQL Server

Azure

projects

Project Template Store · SquareKicker
Template Store · SquareKicker

Apr 2024 — Present

The Template Store represents a groundbreaking e-commerce initiative designed to transform the website creation process. It serves as a unique platform where creators can publish and share templates specifically crafted for Squarespace users. This innovative approach empowers a diverse community of designers and developers, offering them a dynamic marketplace to showcase their work.

At its heart, the Template Store aims to democratise website development by providing an extensive library of meticulously designed templates. These templates cater to a wide range of styles and functionalities, ensuring that users can find the perfect match for their unique needs and preferences. By leveraging advanced technologies like server-side generation and responsive design with NextJS, the Store ensures a seamless and intuitive user experience.

The Store stands out by eliminating the need for coding expertise, allowing individuals and businesses to effortlessly procure and customise templates to bring their digital visions to life. This user-friendly approach not only simplifies the website creation process but also fosters creativity and innovation within the community.

Strapi

Framer Motion

Vercel

Stripe

MaterialUI

DevOps

UX / UI

Figma

Typescript

GraphQL

React

NextJS

Project Elemental Gift · Independent
Elemental Gift · Independent

Nov 2023 — Feb 2024

E-commerce platform dedicated to offering handcrafted gift boxes that foster warmth and joy. The primary goal was to create a user-friendly experience that facilitated effortless purchases.

Leveraging NextJS with ChakraUI and TailwindCSS, I crafted a visually appealing website with intuitive navigation. Key features included a clean design, seamless integration of GraphQL for efficient data handling, Stripe for secure payment processing, and Google Analytics for insightful user behaviour tracking. Deployed on Vercel and linked to GitHub for easy updates, the site prioritised performance, responsiveness, and security.

Additionally, I implemented features such as server-side rendering for swift page loads and integration with the NZPost API for accurate shipping cost calculations and localisation. Throughout the project, meticulous attention to detail ensured the platform met high standards of functionality and aesthetics, ultimately delivering a seamless and enjoyable experience for users.

HTML

UX / UI

Typescript

GraphQL

TailwindCSS

React

NextJS

Stripe

Vercel

Framer Motion

Project VetDesk · Neromotion
VetDesk · Neromotion

Jan — Oct 2023

In this project, we faced the challenge of rapidly deploying new product implementations for numerous veterinary clinics in New Zealand, with plans to expand to Australia. To overcome this, we developed reusable components and data libraries, ensuring flexibility and easy maintenance. Storybook and automated testing were employed for maintainability.

VetDesk provides clinics with a comprehensive solution for managing pet medical records, appointments, payments and an integrated store. The API, built in .NET, is documented with SwaggerAPI and tested with Postman. Contentful is used for client-managed data, with a homemade backend for querying the database. The team ensures dynamic rendering of routes on the server side for improved security and performance across devices.

Ultimately, this product offers custom implementations and quick deployment of new features, enabling clinics to focus on providing quality animal care.

SQL

Typescript

TailwindCSS

NextJS

React

UX / UI

Nx

Postman

Figma

GraphQL

Bit Bucket

Vercel

Stripe

Framer Motion

Storybook

Project Origin · Sandfield
Origin · Sandfield

Mar 2021 — Jan 2023

I played a pivotal part in developing a customized Supply Chain Framework tailored to industry giants like Mainfreight and Qube. This involved spearheading the creation of a new Origin Framework, where we crafted the front end using React and implemented a robust Controllers and Managers layer with .NET 6.

We also significantly enhanced the database layer, optimizing tables, indexes, and Stored Procedures to handle millions of freight operations annually. Leveraging Material UI Pro, the Team ensured visually appealing and functional core components essential for reporting and decision-making. Additionally, I got involved in developing mobile applications using React Native, incorporating features like geofencing and device security.

My responsibilities extended beyond technical tasks to direct client communication and problem-solving, contributing to a positive work environment by fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing within the Team.

SQL

Typescript

React

CSS

.NET

React Native

MaterialUI

Azure

Project Mainstreet · Sandfield
Mainstreet · Sandfield

Aug 2018 — Feb 2021

I contributed significantly to developing and maintaining a web application tailored to Mainfreight's freight forwarding business.

I gained valuable insights into the business domain and database operations through Stored Procedures and report-making tasks. I took on more challenging responsibilities as I progressed, including new feature development and enhancing existing functionalities like notifications, Containers, Wharf operations, and Linehaul freights.

Despite initial language barriers, I improved my communication skills to engage with clients effectively. My involvement spanned the entire development lifecycle, from coding and testing to deployment and DevOps operations, ensuring product quality and meeting client requirements.

SQL

CSS

.NET

Javascript

Azure

Microsoft SQL Server

HTML

UX / UI

A React and Front-End Development blog that goes along theway with you!

Join me in exploring the ever-evolving landscape of front-end development and beyond. Expect to find content aimed at aiding fellow learners and enthusiasts, reinforcing my own understanding while hopefully contributing to yours. Stay updated on my latest discoveries and musings as I delve into new topics and techniques.

No clutter, just enriching content straight to your inbox. Feel free to opt-out at any time, no strings attached 😊

Contact

We are just a message away of getting in touch!

You can find me at:

hi@maxchereza.com