Muhammad Talha Bin Zia, Developer in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
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Muhammad Talha Bin Zia

Verified Expert  in Engineering

Bio

Muhammad is a Google Certified Project Manager, IBM Certified Product Owner, and GenAI specialist with projects focused on AI agents and chatbots utilizing LLM techniques such as RAG and agentic workflows. He has also won the NUCES-ACM Programmer of the Year title (C++) and the Toptal Hackathon 2024.

Portfolio

Code Upscale
Agile Project Management, Product Management, Product Owner, Scrum, Agile...
Arçelik
Internet of Things (IoT), Embedded C, C, Realtime, Software Engineering...
Laam
Go, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), GraphQL, REST, JSON, Cloud...

Experience

  • Architecture - 8 years
  • C++ - 7 years
  • Leadership - 5 years
  • Product Delivery - 5 years
  • AI Agents - 4 years
  • Open-source LLMs - 3 years
  • AI Integration - 3 years
  • Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) - 3 years

Availability

Full-time

Preferred Environment

C++, Linux, Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), Gemini API, OpenAI API, Retrieval-augmented Generation (RAG), Large Language Models (LLMs), Product Management, Agile Project Management, Contact Centers

The most amazing...

...thing I've worked on was AI agents for Nestle-UAE. I utilized both Gemini and OpenAI APIs, as well as complex Instruction sets and agentic workflows.

Work Experience

Head of Service Delivery

2024 - PRESENT
Code Upscale
  • Made critical technical implementation decisions. Ensured high standards throughout the development lifecycle. Predicted requirements gaps and roadblocks in advance. Utilized global experience to extract client requirements.
  • Ensured the successful delivery for high-value clients. Created a culture of high standards with lean processes, Researched best practices for continuous improvement, and showed an understanding of the art of running a software services business.
  • Handled project management by managing complex, high-impact projects. Effectively handled deadlines and resolved blockers, guided clients with transparency, managed expectations, and communicated with clients, leadership, and teams.
  • Built trust through transparent communication. Extracted comprehensive requirements, managed expectations professionally, and ensured successful delivery to high-value clients.
  • Handled team development by keeping staff motivated and accountable. Established clear performance standards, fostered a continuous improvement mindset, and built effective cross-functional collaboration.
Technologies: Agile Project Management, Product Management, Product Owner, Scrum, Agile, Leadership, Communication, Solution Architecture, System Design, Large Language Models (LLMs), Product Delivery, Open-source LLMs, OpenAI, Web Development, Architecture, AI Agents, AI Chatbots, AI Integration, AI Chatbots, AI Integration, DevOps, Agile Project Management, Sentiment Analysis, Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT), AWS Lambda, Automation, Workflow Automation

Senior Lead, R&D

2023 - 2024
Arçelik
  • Worked at Arcelik Global, a Fortune 500 company, on a platform delivering next-generation RCoS+, a C-based platform for a large stack of embedded/IoT devices that the company produces.
  • Contributed to the refrigeration software at Cooling Squad. Transformed the newly acquired Whirlpool, Russia, products to our own stack.
  • Integrated WebSocket to enable real-time communication between IoT devices and the cloud.
Technologies: Internet of Things (IoT), Embedded C, C, Realtime, Software Engineering, Software Architecture, GitHub, Scrum, Next.js, Product Design, System Design, Product Delivery, Architecture, Agile Project Management

Senior Software Engineer

2023 - 2023
Laam
  • Designed and developed a data plane service from scratch using Go, hosted and tested on a Linux-based cloud platform using a containerized environment. Focused on best practices and high throughput.
  • Added support for logging to an existing Go language project by utilizing the GCP logger library to support an existing stack of Go services.
  • Wrote a public server in Go and added an auth module for verifying requests generated from internal topics over a push subscription.
  • Consumed the Shopify Admin API over GraphQL and REST protocols to perform operations efficiently at scale in the Shopify store.
Technologies: Go, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), GraphQL, REST, JSON, Cloud, Distributed Software, Distributed Systems, Architecture, Back-end Architecture, Back-end Development, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), APIs, REST APIs, PostgreSQL, Google Cloud, CI/CD Pipelines, DevOps, Redis, Docker, Embedded C++, API Architecture, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), Software Engineering, Software Architecture, GitHub, Scrum, Containerization, Laravel, Vue, React, System Design, Product Delivery, Web Development, DevOps, Agile Project Management

Back-end Developer

2022 - 2022
ST Engineering iDirect - Main
  • Implemented a feature added in the map converter module to support new HEO satellites by consuming dynamic GXT files contour data and converting them into GeoJSON for our system to utilize.
  • Refactored legacy C++ back-end services into modern Node.js microservices, improving performance and maintainability.
  • Used PostgreSQL database tuning for autovacuum. Updated bash and Python scripts for CI/CD system bugs.
Technologies: C++, Analytical Thinking, C, SQL, Distributed Software, Distributed Systems, Architecture, Back-end Architecture, Back-end Development, CLion, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), Python, APIs, PostgreSQL, Data, CI/CD Pipelines, DevOps, Docker, Kubernetes, API Architecture, Real-time Systems, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Software Engineering, Software Architecture, GitHub, Scrum, Containerization, Product Design, System Design, Product Delivery, Web Development, DevOps, Agile Project Management

Senior Software Engineer

2020 - 2022
Afiniti
  • Integrated Telemetry with Avaya Switch Interface (SI) services using C++ to implement runtime sensors that help monitor service health and runtime decision-making.
  • Implemented real-time data visualization using D3.js for contact center analytics. Developed a React component library, ensuring a unified UI/UX across multiple internal applications.
  • Implemented a C++ REST server for communication with the inContact switch.
Technologies: C++, Linux, SonarQube, Concurrency, Microservices, REST, Best Practices, C++14, Test-driven Development (TDD), CMake, GitLab, GitLab CI/CD, Object-oriented Design (OOD), Back-end, Analytical Thinking, SQL, Distributed Software, Distributed Systems, Architecture, Back-end Architecture, Back-end Development, CLion, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), APIs, REST APIs, C++17, CI/CD Pipelines, Redis, Docker, API Architecture, C#, Real-time Systems, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Software Engineering, Software Architecture, GitHub, Scrum, Containerization, D3.js, React, System Design, Product Delivery, Web Development, DevOps, Agile Project Management, Automation

Software Engineer

2019 - 2020
Afiniti
  • Built a logging and monitoring system using the ELK stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana) to track API usage and performance.
  • Integrated Virtual Hold Technology (VHT) by writing a multithreaded stand-alone service from scratch that communicates over a shared memory interface and SOAP protocol.
  • Rewrote and enhanced the monolithic .NET codebase into C++ microservices.
Technologies: gSOAP, POCO C++, C++, Futures, Best Practices, GNU Debugger (GDB), Valgrind, Google Test, C++14, Test-driven Development (TDD), CMake, Object-oriented Design (OOD), Back-end, Analytical Thinking, Technical Writing, C, SQL, Mathematics, Distributed Software, Distributed Systems, Architecture, Back-end Architecture, Back-end Development, CLion, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), APIs, C++17, Docker, API Architecture, .NET, Real-time Systems, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Software Engineering, Software Architecture, GitHub, Scrum, Containerization, MERN Stack, System Design, Web Development, DevOps, Agile Project Management

Software Engineer

2018 - 2019
TPS Worldwide
  • Implemented bill inquiry and payment logic using in-house IRIS-5 C++ switching framework supporting multiple configurations for various utility and telecom companies.
  • Participated in a months-long stress testing activity of bill payments components and resolved any crashes and memory utilization issues using a GNU debugger.
  • Consumed SOAP-based third-party billing APIs for prepaid and postpaid transaction requests using gSOAP.
Technologies: SOAP, C++, Linux, Boost, Multithreading, Microservices Architecture, 3D Secure, Object-oriented Analysis & Design (OOAD), C++14, Test-driven Development (TDD), CMake, Object-oriented Design (OOD), Back-end, Analytical Thinking, C, SQL, Mathematics, Distributed Software, Distributed Systems, Back-end Development, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), API Architecture, C#, .NET, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Software Engineering, GitHub, Scrum, System Design, DevOps, Agile Project Management

Associate Software Engineering

2017 - 2018
TPS Worldwide
  • Automated time-consuming process of finding delays in lengthy logs via a service that goes through log lines and filters suspicious delays based on configured information.
  • Automated tedious process of generating almost similar SQL scripts for different companies by making a script generator with generic IDs.
  • Wrote 3D secure feature in Payment Switch for improved security while processing transactions using C++.
Technologies: 3D Secure, C++, C++11, Git, Boost, C++14, Test-driven Development (TDD), CMake, Object-oriented Design (OOD), Back-end, Analytical Thinking, SQL, Distributed Software, Distributed Systems, Back-end Development, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), .NET, Software Engineering, GitHub, Scrum, System Design, Agile Project Management

Experience

Nestle UAE – Safety Chatbot

https://nestle.d24ulz3fnkfk5i.amplifyapp.com
With a focus on safety and compliance, this project collects all relevant information and assists employees with safety and compliance as a guide, always available to spread awareness. Currently in progress, this project utilizes open source solution for local deployment.

HippoHub – AI Agents

A generative AI-based system that includes multiple chatbots for assisting small public businesses by automating their press releases, earning call scripts, and a knowledge agent. It uses OpenAI API and Gemini API with Document Vault to answer queries accurately and reliably. I was able to lead and architect the project with my team.

Integrated Virtual Hold Technology (VHT)

VHT is a third-party patent solution deployed on major contact center accounts, such as the United Health Group, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

It was completely integrated with Afiniti's V6 software by developing a C++ back-end microservice from scratch. It supports a wide range of client customization. A multi-tenant, multi-threaded VHT integration service was implemented. It is responsible for communication between VHT services and Afiniti.

The functionality developed was divided into three major areas:
1. Initializing queue mappings.
2. Pulling queue stats. This involves constantly loading stats from VHT stats servers asynchronously. One thread per server is used.
3. Generating and sending notifications. This involves receiving queue-based events from other Afiniti services.

HA was designed and implemented for parallel communication with multiple VHT servers and shifted to backup servers in case of failure using C++ futures. A gSOAP solution was developed using portable components (POCO) HTTP and pugixml to support SOAP-based communication. SSL and new WSDL support were later added.

I performed a stress testing load of 1,500 calls per minute using an in-house simulator.

Improved Code Quality and Security Based on a SonarQube Analysis for a Complete SI Service

SonarQube is a third-party paid service that provides static code analysis across project codebase, identifies security hotspots and potential threats, and suggests best practices.

Based on this analysis, I removed all possible issues across the entire SI-Avaya's codebase.

This activity provided me chance to learn and further improve my understanding.

Dromen Inc for Fintech Company

https://www.dromeninc.com/
Dromen Inc. is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing comprehensive support services that extend beyond traditional financial management. Their offerings include Financial Management Services (FMS), Non-Public Agency (NPA) services, and Home Health Care, all designed to facilitate clients' participation in the Self-Determination Program (SDP). Emphasizing collaborative, relationship-driven partnerships, Dromen refers to their collaborators as "Community Partners" to highlight a commitment to inclusivity and shared goals. Additionally, they offer training programs for Independent Facilitators to enhance support for individuals with developmental disabilities. Dromen's mission is to transform collective dreams into purposeful realities for each client.

Implemented a Utility Bills Payment Service (UBPS)

https://www.tpsworldwide.com/press_releases/ubps-behind-easypaisa-bill-payment-service/
UBPS is a critical component of bill payment infrastructure, processing a high volume of transactions for banks. Self-handled utility companies had all transaction logic implemented in C++ IRIS switch, while third-party telecom companies used SOAP-based APIs consumed using gSOAP for C++. C# code was converted to C++ microservices. I worked with a DevOps team to conduct stress tests. Ultimately, Telenor chose TPS UBPS due to its proven reliability, robustness, and track record, over other top-notch solutions.

Embedded Telemetry | Runtime Service Health Monitoring Across Switch Interface Services

Telemetry services help monitor service health by listening on multiple stats.

All required stats, including average round trip times, warnings, and error counts, were calculated and delivered to the monitoring service to be available for support teams across multiple accounts.

Logger Library Performance Enhancement

I improved the performance of the in-house C++ logger library by 2x. Timestamp generation was reduced from once per log to once per time change. Mid-level conversion from log parameters to log objects was avoided, saving precious string conversion and copying cycles.

RCoS+, a C-based Embedded Platform

Improved the C-based RCoS+ platform for IoT devices. I provided the base functionality to the application teams. The platform comprises an event handler, scheduler, threading support, base devices, and drivers.

Education

2013 - 2017

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

National University of Computer and Emerging Sciences - Lahore, Pakistan

Certifications

MARCH 2025 - PRESENT

IBM Product Manager Specialization

IBM via Coursera

FEBRUARY 2025 - PRESENT

Google Project Management: Specialization

Google via Coursera

MAY 2024 - PRESENT

Go (Basic)

HackerRank

JULY 2023 - PRESENT

Introduction to OCPP 2.0.1

Udemy

MAY 2023 - PRESENT

Problem Solving (Basic)

HackerRank

JUNE 2019 - PRESENT

C++ LinkedIn Skill Assessment badge

LinkedIn

AUGUST 2013 - PRESENT

NUCES ACM Programmer of the Year

NUCES ACM

Skills

Libraries/APIs

Standard Template Library (STL), REST APIs, POCO C++, PayPal API, React, Node.js, Vue, D3.js, OpenAI API

Tools

CLion, gSOAP, GitLab, GitHub, ChatGPT, Git, SonarQube, Valgrind, GNU Debugger (GDB), CMake, GitLab CI/CD, Visual Studio

Languages

C++, C++11, C++14, C, SQL, GraphQL, C++17, Embedded C, JavaScript, CSS, HTML, Java, C#, Go, Embedded C++, Python, TypeScript, PHP, C++20

Frameworks

Google Test, React Native, Angular, Redux, Boost, Unity, NestJS, Express.js, .NET, Realtime, Next.js, Laravel

Paradigms

Unit Testing, Best Practices, Microservices Architecture, Microservices, Object-oriented Analysis & Design (OOAD), Test-driven Development (TDD), Object-oriented Design (OOD), Back-end Architecture, Scrum, Object-oriented Programming (OOP), API Architecture, Mobile Development, Automation, Load Testing, REST, Real-time Systems, DevOps, Agile Project Management, Agile, Management

Platforms

Amazon Web Services (AWS), Firebase, Blockchain, SharePoint, Linux, Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Docker, AWS Lambda, Kubernetes

Storage

MongoDB, JSON, PostgreSQL, Google Cloud, MySQL, Redis, Databases

Other

Software Development, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Structures, Concurrency, SOAP, Futures, Threat Analytics, Multithreading, Code Performance Improvement, Performance, Back-end, Analytical Thinking, Back-end Development, Architecture, Distributed Systems, Distributed Software, Mathematics, Cloud, APIs, Creativity, Critical Thinking, Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), System Design, Software Engineering, Software Architecture, Product Design, Supabase, Large Language Models (LLMs), Front-end, User Interface (UI), User Experience (UX), Chatbots, Mobile Apps, Team Management, Leadership, Minimum Viable Product (MVP), Full-stack Development, Chrome Extensions, Web Development, Web Scraping, Data Scraping, API Integration, WebSockets, Full-stack, Teams, Mobile App Development, Retrieval-augmented Generation (RAG), AI Agents, AI Chatbots, AI Integration, AI Chatbots, AI Integration, DevOps, Agile Project Management, Sentiment Analysis, Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT), Workflow Automation, Information Retrieval, Algorithms, Load Balancers, High Availability Disaster Recovery (HADR), Telemetry, Monitoring, TCP/IP, 3D Secure, Technical Writing, Data, Open Charge Point Protocol (OCPP), Linear Algebra, Art, Containerization, OpenAI, Open-source LLMs, Mobile App Development, Enterprise, Complex Problem Solving, Programming, CI/CD Pipelines, Internet of Things (IoT), Startups, Serverless, ARM Embedded, AI Art Visualization, MERN Stack, Product Management, Product Owner, Communication, Solution Architecture, Gemini API, Gemini, Lean Project Management, Contact Centers, Product Launch, Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), Agile Product Delivery, Stakeholder Management, Delivery, Agile Delivery, Product Delivery, Natural Language Processing (NLP)

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