Vanessa Esterbrook

About Vanessa Esterbrook

Software Engineer focused on internal platforms, automation, and reliable backend systems.I enjoy building tools and infrastructure that help teams move faster. At Farmer’s Fridge, I’ve worked across our backend stack on pricing systems, internal APIs, device configuration tooling, and monitoring for a network of 1,800+ connected IoT devices. Much of my work focuses on improving visibility into system behavior, diagnosing issues through logs and observability tools, and building solutions that reduce manual processes for both engineering and operational teams.My approach to engineering is deliberate: I start by understanding the problem, reviewing existing systems, and learning how teams actually use the tools before deciding what to build. I try to lean on established patterns and design solutions that fit naturally into the system rather than reinventing the wheel.Before engineering, I worked as a bartender and corporate trainer, which shaped how I approach collaboration. I’m comfortable working with both technical and non-technical teams, explaining complex systems clearly, and staying calm when things get hectic. I enjoy environments where strong communication, thoughtful problem solving, and reliable systems all matter.I’m particularly interested in roles where I can combine backend development with building tooling, improving developer workflows, or helping teams use systems more effectively.

Experience

1. Software Engineer

   Farmer's Fridge

   Apr 2022 — Present

   Backend-focused engineer working on internal tools, pricing systems, and device (fridge) health/monitoring on an AWS serverless stack.Design, build, and maintain backend services using Python, AWS Lambda, DynamoDB, and AppSync/GraphQL to support internal CMS tools and fridge operations.Developed CSV-based tooling for pricing and planogram updates, making it easier and safer for non-engineering teams to update configurations across hundreds of devices/locations.Implemented health monitoring and event tracking features (e.g, heartbeat checks, canary-style validations, and analytics events) to improve visibility into device uptime and customer experience.Collaborate closely with product, operations, and field support to clarify requirements, scope changes, and ship pragmatic solutions that fit into existing systems.Write tests, logging, and documentation that make backend services easier to understand, maintain, and extend for other engineers.

Education

• Coding Dojo

  Python, C#, MEAN

  2018 — 2018