Paula Collins

Principal Software Engineer with over 15 years of expertise in developing robust, scalable applications using Java and a wide range of modern frameworks. Skilled in backend development, microservices architecture, and delivering efficient, maintainable code across diverse industries. Proven ability to enhance user experiences, optimize performance, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality software solutions.

Strong foundation in Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) principles, Agile methodologies, and the full software development life cycle (SDLC). Passionate about leveraging open-source technologies, writing clean and testable code, and continuously improving processes to meet evolving business needs. Focused on building innovative applications, driving operational efficiency, and ensuring long-term system stability.

Principal Software Engineer at Quickbase (2020-03 – Present)

Quickbase is a low-code/no-code platform enabling enterprises to rapidly build custom applications for workflow automation and data operations.

• Developed and reviewed critical code, ensuring compliance with best coding practices and improving code quality.
• Integrated third-party APIs for payment processing and shipping services, expanding application functionality and improving business operations.
• Used MVC pattern for both UI development with Angular and application development with Java (Spring Boot).
• Built dynamic, user-friendly interfaces with React, improving user engagement and reducing page load times by 40%.
• Conducted unit and integration tests using frameworks such as JUnit, increasing test coverage and ensuring the reliability of application components.
• Deployed applications for both test and production environments, ensuring smooth transitions between different environments and reducing downtime.
• Developed batch processing applications using Spring Batch, streamlining data processing tasks and improving system efficiency by 40%.
• Developed an ERP system using Java EE to streamline operations and improve data visibility across multiple departments.
• Implemented a microservices architecture for an ERP system using Java EE, facilitating better scalability and maintainability.

Software Engineer II at Cisco (2015-03 – 2020-02)

Cisco provides networking, cloud, and cybersecurity products. Contributed to Cisco's internal e-commerce engine and B2B cloud services.

• Developed a range of applications using Java and Spring Boot, including a customer management system, which increased customer satisfaction by 20%.
• Led the development of dynamic, responsive user interfaces using Angular, React and TypeScript, improving user engagement by 35%.
• Created intuitive interfaces using JavaFX for desktop applications, collaborating closely with UI/UX designers to enhance the user experience.
• Worked with Hibernate and JPA to manage database interactions, optimizing data access and ensuring data consistency across different systems.
• Generated Excel and PowerPoint reports using Apache POI and DocX4J libraries, providing stakeholders with accurate data reports and presentations.
• Integrated JMS queues for messaging services, ensuring seamless communication between distributed systems and improving system reliability.
• Developed and deployed cloud-based applications using AWS, ensuring scalable, secure, and cost-effective solutions.
• Optimized database queries and implemented caching mechanisms to improve the performance and scalability of the mobile banking application.
• Implemented security measures, such as encryption and tokenization, to protect sensitive user data within the digital wallet application.

Software Engineer at KBR (2010-09 – 2015-02)

KBR is an engineering and science firm serving defense, space, and industrial clients. Contributed to scalable internal systems and customer portals.

• Conducted load testing and performance tuning, improving the platform's transaction handling capability and ensuring that the backend could handle a 25% increase in traffic during peak hours.
• Designed RESTful APIs using Spring Boot and optimized SQL queries for data retrieval, improving response times by 30% and ensuring fast and efficient access to customer data.
• Integrated third-party payment APIs, enhancing the security of online transactions and providing a smoother user experience for e-commerce customers.
• Developed and maintained backend systems for healthcare applications using Java, Spring Boot, and Hibernate, ensuring the secure handling of patient data and improving overall system performance.
• Spearheaded the architecture and migration of legacy systems to microservices, resulting in improved scalability and a 35% reduction in server costs.
• Worked on implementing a new customer service platform using Java, optimizing backend services to improve response times and customer satisfaction.
• Developed reporting and analytics features for the customer service platform, providing valuable insights into customer interactions and support trends.

BS in Computer Science – Georgia State University (2010)