Open to opportunities

Kirsten User

@kirsten

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Backend developer focused on PHP, Laravel, server administration, and DevOps.

Zimbabwe

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What I'm looking for

I seek remote roles building scalable backend systems, improving infrastructure security, and contributing to DevOps and CMS projects with growth into Python/Go.

I am a backend developer with hands-on experience building, deploying, and maintaining production web applications, custom CMS plugins, and secure server infrastructure for real clients. I specialize in PHP, Laravel, OctoberCMS, and practical DevOps work—VPS provisioning, Dockerized deployments, DNS configuration, and server hardening—while reliably delivering backend systems in fully remote environments.

I've built and deployed multiple production sites and extended open-source CRM platforms with Laravel and Filament, implemented server security improvements, and maintained self-hosted tools for clients. I'm expanding my backend expertise into Python and Go, pursuing formal computer science study, and continually improving systems for scalability and reliability.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Backend Developer

Current

Independent Contractor

Jan 2025 - Present (1 year 1 month)

Provides backend development, custom CMS/plugin development, and server administration for multiple client websites; built and deployed 6+ production sites and implemented Dockerized deployments, VPS provisioning, and server hardening.

PHP Laravel OctoberCMS Docker Filament MySQL

Frontend Developer

Chingu.io

Jan 2022 - Dec 2024 (2 years 11 months)

Collaborated in distributed remote teams to build and ship React single-page applications, applying Agile/SCRUM practices and delivering features on schedule as a solo contributor within team projects.

React JavaScript SPA Development Agile Scrum HTML CSS Git Remote Collaboration

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

University of the People

Associate of Science, Computer Science

2023 -

Activities and societies: Concurrent freelance backend development; self-directed coursework in backend systems and DevOps.

Pursuing an Associate of Science in Computer Science while concurrently working as a freelance backend developer, focusing on backend fundamentals and practical system design.