Hi, I'm Rich Klaus, a seasoned web development and software engineering leader with over 15 years of experience. I've had the privilege of managing high-performing teams and delivering scalable, user-focused web solutions Expert in modern technologies such as React, Next.js, Node.js, Docker, Kubernetes, and AWS, I enjoy leading full lifecycle development and driving product innovation that truly makes a difference. I'm passionate about building efficient solutions that reduce costs and enhance user experiences. Currently, I lead the web development team at Empire Education Group, where we create innovative web applications including SMS and web chat platforms that support thousands of daily users. I’m always eager to embrace new challenges and work collaboratively to create impactful digital solutions.

Rich Klaus

Hi, I'm Rich Klaus, a seasoned web development and software engineering leader with over 15 years of experience. I've had the privilege of managing high-performing teams and delivering scalable, user-focused web solutions Expert in modern technologies such as React, Next.js, Node.js, Docker, Kubernetes, and AWS, I enjoy leading full lifecycle development and driving product innovation that truly makes a difference. I'm passionate about building efficient solutions that reduce costs and enhance user experiences. Currently, I lead the web development team at Empire Education Group, where we create innovative web applications including SMS and web chat platforms that support thousands of daily users. I’m always eager to embrace new challenges and work collaboratively to create impactful digital solutions.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Rich Klaus, a seasoned web development and software engineering leader with over 15 years of experience. I’ve had the privilege of managing high-performing teams and delivering scalable, user-focused web solutions
Expert in modern technologies such as React, Next.js, Node.js, Docker, Kubernetes, and AWS, I enjoy leading full lifecycle development and driving product innovation that truly makes a difference. I’m passionate about building efficient solutions that reduce costs and enhance user experiences.
Currently, I lead the web development team at Empire Education Group, where we create innovative web applications including SMS and web chat platforms that support thousands of daily users. I’m always eager to embrace new challenges and work collaboratively to create impactful digital solutions.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
Intermediate
Intermediate
Beginner
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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Senior Director of Web Development at Empire Education Group
June 1, 2017 - June 1, 2024
Led a team of developers, engineers, and designers in creating, maintaining, and supporting public-facing websites and web applications, as well as internal tools like web and SMS chat applications. Established and maintained technology growth direction. Replaced tech debt with modern, efficient, and cost-effective solutions or best-fit third-party integrations. Managed complex projects including SMS/Web Chat platforms supporting 500+ agents and 5,000+ active conversations, and a lead generation company website with significant SEO and conversion improvements.
Director of Web Development at Empire Education Group
June 1, 2011 - June 1, 2017
Managed a team of developers and designers in creating and maintaining public-facing websites and web applications mainly for lead generation. Developed SMS/Web Chat platforms (versions 1 and 2) with Python backend and custom websocket libraries. Created Empire.edu versions 2 and 3 with Asp.Net and C#, along with Beautycareer.com version 2, including tools for resume building, job matching, and educator mentoring.
Web Developer at Empire Education Group
July 1, 2007 - June 1, 2011
Designed, developed, deployed, and supported multiple systems including databases, websites, web applications, Windows and mobile applications, as well as business intelligence and CMS solutions. Key projects included Empire.edu version 1.5 rebuilt from Flash to improve SEO and mobile compatibility, Beautycareer.com with PHP and MSSQL including job listings and matchmaking features, and Beautyschools.edu lead generation site with massive backlink engine. Also developed lead management and landing page generation systems.
Software Developer at Penn National Gaming
September 1, 2002 - July 1, 2007
Worked in IT with Finance on settlement systems. Developed APIs to harvest data from United Tote systems. Created custom financial reporting packages integrating multiple data sources including real-time Scientific Games mainframe output and other totalizator systems into MSSQL and Oracle databases, including integration with PA state settlement systems for handle and breakage calculations.
Applications Development Manager at JH Zerby Newspapers, Inc.
November 1, 1997 - October 1, 2001
Supported and built InfoConnect Dialogic-based IVR systems and developed streaming software to integrate voice messaging from IVR with websites. Built and maintained the company website. Key projects included Sonic Factory real-time transcoding Java applets/servlets for IVR systems and Info-Connect turn-key Windows NT 4.0 Dialogic-based IVR systems primarily for small newspapers.

Education

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Qualifications

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Industry Experience

Education, Gaming, Software & Internet, Professional Services