Hey, I'm Zach!
I'm a frontend-focused, full-stack software engineer with 15+ years of experience building web applications. I love turning complex technical challenges into elegant, accessible user experiences.
I like spend my time architecting modern React applications, leading platform migrations, and mentoring engineers. When I'm not coding, you'll find me hiking Colorado's trails with my dog, working on leather crafts, or tinkering with home automation projects.
What I Do
I specialize in frontend architecture and modern web development, with a particular passion for:
- React ecosystems - Building scalable applications with React, Next.js, and modern tooling
- Platform modernization - Migrating legacy systems to contemporary frameworks and patterns
- Accessibility-first development - Ensuring web experiences work for everyone
- Team leadership - Mentoring engineers and driving technical initiatives across organizations
Technical Skills
Frontend & Architecture
React • Next.js • Angular • StencilJS • TypeScript • JavaScript • Micro-frontend Architecture • Component Libraries • Server-Side Rendering
Cloud & Backend
AWS Lambda • Node.js • GraphQL • REST APIs • DynamoDB • API Gateway • AppSync • Java (Spring)
DevOps & Quality
CI/CD (CodePipeline, GitLab) • Jest • Cypress • Playwright • Docker • CloudFormation • Performance Optimization
Leadership & Process
Technical Presentations • Code Review • Mentoring • WCAG Accessibility • Cross-functional Collaboration
Recent Highlights
Next.js Platform Rebuild
DHI Group (2024)
Led the complete rebuild of our core recruiter search platform, transitioning from legacy Angular/.NET to modern Next.js. The new platform serves millions of technology professionals with sub-second load times and advanced search capabilities.
Impact: Directly improved user experience for our primary revenue-generating platform
Tech: React, Next.js, ElasticSearch, Server-Side Rendering, Playwright testing
Micro-frontend Migration
DHI Group (2023-2024)
Co-architected the migration of candidate profile experiences from legacy JSP pages to a modern micro-frontend architecture. Built modular StencilJS components with unified GraphQL backend and complete CI/CD pipeline.
Impact: Modernized critical user-facing features affecting millions of job seekers
Tech: StencilJS, GraphQL, AWS AppSync, CodePipeline, Cypress
Accessibility Leadership
DHI Group (2021-2025)
Served as the organization's primary accessibility expert, interpreting WCAG audit findings and driving compliance across multiple codebases. Led remediation efforts spanning React, Angular, StencilJS, and legacy JSP applications.
Impact: Ensured platform accessibility for users with disabilities across all products
Tech: WCAG Standards, Cross-framework Implementation, Audit Remediation
Career Journey
DHI Group, Inc. (Dice.com)
Senior Software Engineer & Technical Architect | 2021 - 2025
Leading frontend architecture and development for platforms serving technology professionals and recruiters. Managing many development initiatives while mentoring engineers and driving technical excellence.
Key achievements:
- Architected multiple platform migrations from legacy to modern frameworks
- Led cross-functional initiatives spanning frontend, backend, and infrastructure
- Founded BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ employee resource groups
- Won multiple hackathon awards including "Audience Favorite" for AI-powered interview platform
Macalester College
Lead Web Developer | 2008 - 2018
Served as primary developer for all public-facing web properties supporting 2,000+ students and 20,000+ alumni. Led major CMS migrations and custom application development for admissions and development teams.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
Digital Resources Designer | 2006 - 2008
Designed and developed accessible websites and digital applications for research projects. Created full-text searchable digital archives using PHP, MySQL, and Solr.
Awards & Recognition
DHI Group "WOW!" Award - Technical excellence and innovation
DHI Group Outstanding Employee Award - DEI leadership and organizational impact
3rd Place Hackathon - "JobSwipe" reimagined job browsing interface
Audience Favorite - "Roast My Resume" AI-powered interview platform
When I'm Not Coding
I'm passionate about life outside of tech! You'll often find me:
Exploring Colorado - Long walks with my dog through Denver's parks and hiking the beautiful trails around the state
Camping adventures - Nothing beats disconnecting in nature and finding new places to explore
Leatherworking - I love working with my hands to create wallets, belts, and other leather goods
Home automation - Always tinkering with smart home projects and finding new ways to automate daily tasks
Let's Connect
I'm always happy to chat about software development, career advice, or life in Denver! Feel free to reach out:
📧 Email: zach.bajaber@gmail.com
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zachbajaber