Tim Lytle

Engineering Leader · Platform Architect · Technical Advisor

Available for new engagements

I'm an engineering leader and backend architect with over twenty years building scalable, API-first systems. I lead engineering organizations and contribute directly to critical systems — I don't believe you have to choose between the two.

I shape product strategy alongside business stakeholders while staying hands-on with architecture and implementation. I'm known for preventing unnecessary complexity, deferring irreversible decisions, and designing systems that remain adaptable as understanding evolves.

I'm also a recognized speaker and published technical author. I've given keynotes at developer conferences and a TEDx talk on creativity and where humans fit in an ever-changing world. I care about making complex ideas accessible — whether that's in a code review, on stage, or at a whiteboard.

Engineering Leadership

Hiring, performance management, mentorship, and building teams that work well together.

Systems Architecture

API-first design, event-driven systems, and scalable backend platforms.

Platform Strategy

API design, authentication architecture, and developer experience.

Technical Communication

Conference keynotes, technical writing, and translating complex concepts for any audience.

Conference Speaker

Dozens of talks and keynotes at developer conferences on API design, software architecture, and stewardship. Browse talks →

TEDx Speaker

A talk on creativity, what it means to be human, and how that shapes our understanding of an ever-changing world.

Published Author

Multiple articles in php[architect] on API design, HTTP libraries, and software craftsmanship.

Community Builder

Founded and led Lehigh Valley Tech — organizing meetups, hackathons, and startup weekends for the local technology community.

I'm currently available for consulting, advisory work, and exploring the right longer-term role.

Whether you have a thorny API integration, a team that could use some direction, or a system architecture that needs a fresh perspective — I'd enjoy the conversation.