Derek Mercedes
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Derek Mercedes

Derek Mercedes·Denver, CO

Full-stack software engineer

I design, build, and deploy web applications with JavaScript, React, Node.js, and AWS — independently and with product, QA, and engineering teams. I translate business requirements into reliable systems that run in production.

JavaScript · React · Node.js · AWS · REST APIs · Accessibility

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About

Software engineer with experience across the full stack — React frontends, Express APIs, and AWS services including Lambda, DynamoDB, and API Gateway. I have delivered end-to-end solutions on freelance engagements and at AudioEye, where I develop enterprise accessibility implementations. REST APIs, cloud architecture, accessibility, GitHub workflows, and AI-assisted development with Cursor are central to how I work.

End-to-end delivery

I take responsibility for scoping, implementation, and deployment. On freelance engagements and internal tools, I have carried projects from initial requirements through production release.

QA and product collaboration

At AudioEye, I work with QA and product to validate functionality, resolve defects, and ship releases that perform reliably across environments.

Accessibility and cross-browser engineering

Custom JavaScript for enterprise accessibility — 95%+ WAI compliance on client sites — along with standardized cross-browser fixes and documentation that supports team onboarding.

Experience

Enterprise accessibility engineering at AudioEye and freelance full-stack development in Denver.

Implementation Developer

AudioEye, Inc.

Current
  • Developed custom JavaScript accessibility solutions for enterprise websites, improving accessibility compliance to over 95% WAI compliance across multiple client implementations.
  • Built and enhanced internal engineering tools using modern JavaScript practices, reducing manual effort for recurring development and support workflows.
  • Engineered cross-browser solutions by identifying compatibility issues and implementing standardized fixes, improving reliability across supported environments.
  • Collaborated with QA and product stakeholders to validate functionality, troubleshoot defects, and ensure successful production releases.
  • Authored technical documentation that improved onboarding efficiency and knowledge sharing across teams.

Full Stack Software Engineer

Freelance · Denver, CO

  • Designed and delivered full-stack web applications using React, Node.js, MongoDB, and AWS by gathering requirements directly from clients and owning implementation through deployment.
  • Built REST APIs and backend services that supported scalable application functionality while maintaining clean and reusable architecture.
  • Led cloud migrations and deployment initiatives, improving maintainability and operational efficiency.
  • Integrated third-party APIs and external services to extend application functionality while maintaining secure and reliable data flows.

Selected Projects

Selected projects spanning frontend, backend, and cloud infrastructure.

SnapSwap

ReactAWS LambdaDynamoDBAPI GatewayS3
  • Built a serverless image-sharing platform using React and AWS services, enabling users to upload, store, and retrieve media through a scalable cloud architecture.
  • Implemented event-driven processing using DynamoDB Streams and Lambda functions, automating backend workflows and reducing manual operational requirements.
  • Designed infrastructure using AWS SAM and API Gateway, streamlining deployment and environment management.

Ebb

ReactTypeScriptNode.jsMongoDB
  • Developed a full-stack journaling application using React, TypeScript, Express, and MongoDB, providing users with secure mental-state tracking and historical insights.
  • Implemented authentication, protected routes, and user-specific data management to ensure secure access and data integrity.
  • Designed responsive user experiences using Tailwind UI, improving usability across desktop and mobile devices.
View on GitHub

Technical Skills

Languages, frameworks, and platforms used to build, test, and deploy production applications.

Languages

  • JavaScript
  • TypeScript
  • Python

Frontend

  • React
  • Next.js
  • HTML5
  • CSS3
  • TailwindCSS

Backend

  • Express
  • REST APIs

Cloud

  • DynamoDB
  • Lambda
  • API Gateway
  • S3
  • CloudFront
  • SAM

Development

  • GitHub
  • GitHub Actions
  • Cursor
  • AI-assisted development workflows

Testing & Deployment

  • Jest
  • Playwright
  • Vercel
  • Browser compatibility
  • Debugging

Contact & Credentials

Derek Mercedes

Denver, CO

Email Derek

AWS Certified Developer

Amazon

Bachelor of Science — Computer Science (Game Development)

Full Sail University

How I work

I learn quickly through hands-on work. I document decisions, contribute clearly in technical discussions, and follow through on commitments. When trade-offs arise, I prioritize practical solutions that meet requirements without unnecessary complexity.