Agha Irfan Babar
Ruby craftsman. Building robust Rails applications for 9+ years
About
I am a Principal Software Engineer with over 9 years of experience in designing and delivering robust, scalable software solutions. My expertise lies in full-stack development, with a deep focus on the Ruby on Rails ecosystem and modern JavaScript frameworks including Angular, React, and Node.js.
Throughout my career, I have successfully delivered numerous projects as a top-rated freelancer on Upwork, helping clients transform complex ideas into production-ready applications. I specialize in building clean, maintainable code while staying at the forefront of emerging technologies.
My technical versatility spans across cloud platforms (AWS, Firebase, Heroku), containerization (Docker), and both SQL and NoSQL databases (PostgreSQL, MongoDB). I have experience working with massively scaled applications across various verticals including Finance, Healthcare, E-Commerce, and Social Networks.
I excel both as a solo high-impact developer and as a collaborative team member. Whether it's architecting new solutions from scratch, optimizing existing systems, or mentoring development teams, I bring a pragmatic approach focused on delivering real business value.
Currently based in Lahore, Pakistan, I'm available for remote opportunities including full-time positions, contract work, part-time engagements, and freelance projects.
Work Experience
Principal Software Engineer (Consultant)
DMPH (Deline Media Peoplehub) • 2025 - 2025
Designed and launched a scalable microservices HRM portal from scratch using Express.js, Angular, PostgreSQL, Docker, and AWS. Engineered a robust multi-tenant architecture with dynamic DB provisioning and centralized security via Kong API Gateway. Built a hybrid messaging system using Kafka for inter-service communication and established automated QA workflows.
Principal Software Engineer
Innovahealth • 2024 - 2025
Developed EHR solution for senior care therapy using Node.js, Angular, MongoDB, and Heroku. Designed and implemented the Multi-Therapy module and a granular role-based access control (RBAC) system. Optimized MongoDB performance by introducing query pipelines and configuring replica set auto-scaling. Enhanced leadership and communication skills by actively engaging with product owners.
Principal Software Engineer
Adeva (Client: Lumina) • 2022 - 2023
Worked on SaaS and community-driven projects including Unpakt (moving services platform) [Ruby, React, Node.js] and ICC Chess forum integration. Enhanced CI/CD pipelines for faster deployments, developed custom Node.js middleware for SSO, and created reusable authentication packages. Standardized CI/CD process, reducing deployment time by ~30%.
Team Lead
Tkxel • 2018 - 2022
Led cross-functional teams on enterprise solutions including Centraleyes (audit management), AUC (evaluation system), and Leaguer (football management). Architected Microlith-based systems using Rails Engine, managed AWS infrastructure, and successfully revived failing projects. Increased team size from 8 to 15 members and designed the company's first Microlith architecture.
Senior Software Engineer
PhaedraSolutions • 2016 - 2018
Developed custom software for startups including Social Discovery Corp (investigation platform) and Laundry Zoomers (mobile app) using Ruby on Rails, Bootstrap, CoffeeScript. Refactored heavy logic using Resque background workers, programmatically generated MS Word reports, and developed REST APIs for mobile clients. Led small development teams ensuring timely delivery and code quality.
Software Engineer
GoodLogics • 2015 - 2016
Full-stack development on IT Organized (asset management) and My Hosted Store (DIY store-builder) built on Ruby on Rails, Bootstrap, JQuery. Implemented CRUD modules, user role logic, and RESTful APIs. Handled DevOps tasks including server configuration and deployment. Gained foundational full-stack and DevOps experience across frontend and backend roles.
Education
Bachelor of Computer Science and Engineering
Virtual University of Pakistan • 2012 - 2016
Studied in Virtual University of Pakistan.
