A Ruby on Rails version 7 developer is a professional with expertise in developing web applications using the Ruby on Rails (Rails) framework, written in the Ruby programming language.

Role Description

A Ruby on Rails Version 7 developer plays a crucial role in building robust and efficient web applications, and their expertise in the Rails framework is essential for delivering high-quality software solutions. They continuously stay updated with the latest developments in the Rails ecosystem to keep their skills sharp and deliver cutting-edge applications.

The individual is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining full-stack web applications that follow best practices and leverage the capabilities of Rails 7. They work on various aspects of web development, from crafting clean and maintainable code to optimizing application performance. Here are some key responsibilities and skills associated with this role:

Key Responsibilities

• Web Application Development
  • Develop feature-rich web applications using Rails 7, adhering to the MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture for clean code separation.
• Database Management
  • Work with relational databases, typically using ActiveRecord, the Rails ORM (Object-Relational Mapping) framework, to interact with the database and manage data.
  • Customize and optimize ActiveRecord queries for efficiency and performance.
• Front-End Integration
  • Create SLIM views (as opposed to ERB views), for the V portion of the MVC architecture.
  • Integrate and customize the Tailwind CSS Framework with the application.
  • Use Hotwind and TurboFrame to provide real time interaction with Views, through Hotwire JavaScript controllers, ensuring a seamless user experience.
• API Development
  • Create and maintain RESTful APIs or GraphQL endpoints to enable data exchange with other services and front-end clients.
• Testing
  • Write unit tests, integration tests, and functional tests using Rails RSpec to ensure application reliability.
• Security
  • Implement security best practices, such as authentication, authorization, and protection against common web vulnerabilities like SQL injection and cross-site scripting (XSS).
• Performance Optimization
  • Identify and address performance bottlenecks, making use of caching strategies, database optimizations, and other techniques to improve application speed.
• Version Control
  • Use Git and Gitlab to manage and collaborate on code repositories.
• Agile Development
  • Work in an Agile or Scrum development environment, participating in daily stand-up meetings, sprint planning, and retrospective meetings.
• Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)
  • Set up CI/CD pipelines to automate testing and deployment processes, ensuring smooth releases.

Skills and Qualifications

• Ruby on Rails Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of Rails 7, including its latest features and conventions, specifically TurboFrame, Hotwire, Scopes, Lambdas, Blocks, etc. as well as SLIM.
• Ruby Programming: Strong proficiency in the Ruby programming language.
• Database Management: Experience with MySQL 8, as a Hybrid DB technology through the use of traditional attributes and JSON attributes.
• Front-End Technologies: Familiarity with front-end technologies, including HTML, CSS, JavaScrip.
• Testing: Proficiency in writing tests using testing frameworks like RSpec.
• Version Control: Experience with Git and Git-based workflows.
• Security Awareness: Understanding of web application security concepts and best practices.
• Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues and find efficient solutions.
• Communication: Effective communication and collaboration skills, as Rails developers often work in cross-functional teams.
• Agile Methodologies: Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and tools.

Coding Exercise

The coding exercise helps us assess the candidate's ability to work with the Ruby on Rails framework and demonstrate key skills required for the role. It is challenging but achievable within a reasonable time frame. 

Exercise Title: Blog Application

Description: The candidate is tasked with building a simple blog application using Ruby on Rails 7. The application should allow users to create, view, edit, and delete blog posts. Each blog post should have a title, content, and a publication date. Users should also be able to leave comments on blog posts.

Requirements:

• User Authentication: Implement user authentication using the Devise gem or a similar authentication solution. Users should be able to sign up, sign in, and sign out.
• Blog Posts:
  • Users should be able to create, edit, and delete their own blog posts.
  • Blog posts should display the title, content, and publication date.
  • Users should be able to view a list of all blog posts.
  • Users should be able to view a single blog post along with its comments.
• Comments:
  • Users should be able to leave comments on blog posts.
  • Comments should display the user's name (if logged in), timestamp, and content.
  • Users should be able to edit and delete their own comments.
• Validation: Implement appropriate validation to ensure that blog posts have titles and content, and comments have content.
• Testing: Write unit tests and/or integration tests for the critical parts of the application, such as user authentication, creating blog posts, and leaving comments.
• Styling: Apply basic styling to make the application visually appealing. You can use Tailwind.
• Deployment: The code should work on a local host. Provide a link to your Git repo.

Optional Bonus Features (if time permits):

• Add pagination for the list of blog posts.
• Implement user avatars or profile pictures.
• Allow users to edit their profiles.
• Implement basic authorization to ensure that users can only edit/delete their own blog posts and comments.

Evaluation Criteria:

• Proper use of Rails 7 features and conventions.
• Effective implementation of user authentication.
• Creation and management of blog posts and comments.
• Validation and error handling.
• Testing practices (writing tests and ensuring they pass).
• Deployment and accessibility of the live application.
• Code organization and maintainability.
• UI/UX design and styling.