Francis Refol

Platform Engineer
https://www.linkedin.com/in/frefol
917.933.5124
Experienced Platform Engineer with a proven track record in diverse IT roles. Proficient in the software development life cycle, continuous integration, automated testing, and network inventory management. A dedicated engineering professional committed to enhancing software quality and operational efficiency.

Work Experience

Technical Applications Engineer
 Jul 2022-Aug 2024
Technology Concepts & Design Inc | Purchase, NY
TCDI is a legal services and cybersecurity solutions company.
  • Developed Ansible scripts
    to automate comprehensive management of network inventories, including the deployment of security patches and application updates. Leveraged APIs and SQL for playbook creation.
  • Managed and maintained
    critical development assets for the TCDI team, including GitHub Enterprise server, TeamCity, JFrog Artifactory, JFrog XRay, and SonarQube.
  • Supported and administered
    virtual machines running on Windows and Ubuntu Linux operating systems.
  • Maintained and supported
    Nuix servers utilized by e-Discovery data processors.
  • Developed and maintained
    software using C# and Java, integrating with Nuix and Relativity APIs.
Assistant Director of Development Operations
 May 2011-Jul 2022
Stroz Friedberg, an AON Company | New York, NY
Stroz Friedberg is a full service investigation firm that develops data discovery software. It was acquired by TCDI on July 2022.
  • Managed the test lifecycle
    of multiple Win32 applications, including Stroz Discovery and Nuix-X, utilizing TestLink and Jira for tracking and reporting.
  • Automated testing processes
    using Pytest, Selenium, HP Quick Test Pro, VBScript, Windows Scripting Host, DOS Batch, Oracle SQL, and Sikuli.
  • Delivered high-quality builds
    through automated build systems such as Jenkins and TeamCity.
  • Developed and maintained installation packages
    using MSI (Advanced Installer) and C#.
  • Developed and supported software
    applications using C# and Java, integrating with Nuix and Relativity APIs.
Build Manager/Developer
 Feb 2009-Apr 2011
BlackStratus | Edison, NJ
BlackStratus (formerly NetForensics) develops enterprise-class Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) software.
  • Managed and enhanced
    a custom automated build system utilizing Java and Apache Ant, ensuring efficient and reliable build processes.
  • Maintained and developed
    the installation codebase for the nFX SIM One product using Advanced Installer and Java.
  • Created and deployed
    patch updates for the nFX SIM One product, ensuring seamless functionality and user experience.
Advanced Development Engineer
 Aug 2006-Feb 2009
NETGEAR Incorporated | San Jose, CA
NETGEAR is a worldwide provider of networking products for the home and business.
  • Engineered firmware solutions
    in an embedded Linux environment and
    created MSI installers
    for Windows components.
  • Designed, implemented, and maintained
    an automated build system to streamline development processes.
  • Oversaw and conducted
    comprehensive internal and external testing to ensure product quality.
  • Collaborated with global support teams
    to develop and enforce procedures aimed at preventing and eliminating defects in both new and existing products.
VP of Operations / Developer
 Apr 2004-Aug 2006
SkipJam Corporation | Port Chester, NY
SkipJam was a start-up that developed hardware and software for video and audio stream distribution. It was acquired by NETGEAR, Inc. on August 2006.
  • Oversaw daily office operations
    , including customer service, pre-sales, and technical support, ensuring smooth and efficient workflows.
  • Managed and secured the corporate network
    to maintain uninterrupted service and implement robust security measures.
  • Procured components for SkipJam's hardware products
    and oversaw production and manufacturing processes to ensure quality and efficiency.
  • Developed firmware for the iMedia product line
    by working with embedded Linux and WIN32 environments to enhance product functionality.
  • Maintained and administered the defect tracking database (Bugzilla)
    and automated build system to ensure accurate tracking and efficient resolution of issues.
  • Directed internal and external testing of hardware and firmware
    of hardware and firmware to ensure high standards of quality and performance.
  • Acted as a liaison with the press and potential partners
    to represent the company and foster positive relationships.
Senior Quality Assurance Manager
 Dec 1997-Feb 2004
McAfee Software | Rego Park, NY
As part of Network Associates, McAfee Software developed desktop and server security products for consumers and businesses.
  • Led a team of test engineers
    by overseeing project assignments, conducting performance reviews, setting salaries, and managing incentive compensation.
  • Managed testing and deployment procedures
    for Windows multi-platform supported products, ensuring smooth lifecycle management both locally and internationally.
  • Coordinated with global support teams
    to implement procedures aimed at preventing and eliminating defects in new and existing products.
  • Developed ci/cd processes
    including source control, build automation, integration, and automated build verification testing (BVT).
  • Collaborated with product management and development teams
    throughout the software development life cycle to ensure quality plans and operations met product requirements.
Manager of the Technical Support and Quality Assurance
Apr 1990-Dec 1997
Helix Software | Long Island City, NY
Helix Software was a start-up that developed award-winning desktop utility software. It was acquired by Network Associates/McAfee Software on December 1997.
  • Supervised and coordinated
    daily assignments and work priorities for team members.
  • Delivered accurate project estimates
    and comprehensive weekly status reports to senior management.
  • Led the creation and implementation
    of the company's quality assurance policies and procedures.
  • Trained new employees
    in advanced troubleshooting techniques to effectively resolve customer issues.
  • Provided technical support
    by addressing written and telephone inquiries from end users.

Core Skills

GitHub, PostgreSQL, Artifactory, Ansible, Relativity, Nuix, API, YouTrack, Linux, Windows, Bash Scripting, Confluence, Python, C#, VMWare, TeamCity, Jira, Git, Visual Studio, Troubleshooting, RESTful APIs, Continuous Delivery, Jenkins, Software Quality Assurance, Agile, Oracle Database, SIEM, MSI, SDLC, Network Administration, CI/CD, Build Tools, Functional Requirements, GUI Testing, Application Architecture, Functional Testing, Kanban, Scrum, Source Code Management, Test Plans, Written and Verbal Communication Skills, Solving Problems, Maven, Comprehensive Testing

Education

Bachelors of Science in Computer Engineering, CUNY Brooklyn College, 1990