# Rob McBroom #

employment@skurfer.com • [GitHub](https://github.com/skurfer) • [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-mcbroom-677158235/)

## Introduction ##

#### Senior Python Backend Engineer (Django/DRF) ####

Senior backend engineer with 10+ years of experience with a number of Python web frameworks, specializing in Django and Django REST Framework. Experienced in designing scalable APIs, data models, and backend architectures for high-traffic production systems. Proven track record improving system performance, mentoring engineers, and delivering reliable software at scale. Deep experience with Python, PostgreSQL, Celery-based distributed task systems, and developer experience.

## Core Technologies ##

### Backend ###

  * Python (10+ years)
  * Django (9+ years)
  * Django REST Framework (6+ years)
  * Celery (10+ years)
  * FastAPI
  * Flask
  * Apache
  * Nginx

### Data & Infrastructure ###

  * PostgreSQL (10+ years)
  * Redis
  * Docker
  * Kubernetes
  * Linux/Unix systems

### Frontend ###

  * HTML
  * CSS
  * Django Templates
  * Jinja Templates
  * JavaScript
  * jQuery
  * React

### Developer Tools ###

  * Git/GitHub
  * Shell Scripting
  * macOS/Linux Development Environments
  * SSH
  * Zed
  * Visual Studio Code
  * TextMate

## Professional Experience ##

### LeafLink ###

#### Senior Backend Engineer — 3+ years ####

Worked on the backend systems powering a large B2B cannabis marketplace serving ~74,000 users and processing ~120,000 orders per month. Designed APIs supporting marketplace workflows between buyers, sellers, and third-party integrations.

Key contributions:

  * Built a new workflow that **reduced order creation time by ~8×**, dramatically improving buyer efficiency.
  * Optimized high-traffic Django endpoints and PostgreSQL queries, **improving brand catalog performance by ~4×**.
  * Designed and implemented a future-proof product recommendation system.
  * Designed a flexible advertising integration platform enabling support for multiple external ad providers.
  * Designed, implemented, and improved REST APIs using Django REST Framework supporting critical marketplace workflows.
  * Architected backend systems and database schemas for high-volume transactional workflows.
  * Led backend engineering best practices including code review standards and consistent development patterns.
  * Mentored engineers across teams on Django architecture, performance tuning, and debugging complex production issues.

### Six Feet Up ###

#### Developer → Senior Developer — 8 years ####

Consulted on dozens of systems for institutional and enterprise clients. Designed and built backend applications and services using Python and a number of web frameworks.

Key contributions:

  * Designed and implemented custom Django and Flask applications for large institutional clients.
  * Built backend services using Python, PostgreSQL, Redis, and Celery.
  * Designed data models and APIs for complex content and application platforms.
  * Created data export and migration pipelines from legacy systems (Zope/Plone) into modern platforms such as WordPress.
  * Automated system configuration and deployment using SaltStack.
  * Managed Linux infrastructure including FreeBSD and Ubuntu servers.
  * Served as the team’s internal expert on Git workflows, macOS development environments, and Homebrew tooling.

## Education ##

### Indiana University, Bloomington ###

#### BS Information Systems, Kelley School of Business ####

Coursework included significant work in mathematics and science alongside business and information systems studies.

## Technical Training ##

  * Mastering Python — Big Nerd Ranch
  * Red Hat Linux System Administration (RH133) — Red Hat Global Learning Services
  * Solaris 8 Administration II — Sun Training
  * UNIX Shell Programming — Georgia Tech Professional Education
  * Multivendor UNIX System Administration — Georgia Tech Professional Education
  * PHP Bootcamp — Big Nerd Ranch