Senior PHP Developer

Role Overview We are seeking an exceptional  Senior PHP Developer with a passion for building and maintaining robust, high-performance APIs using old-school, non-framework PHP. The ideal candidate is a master of core PHP and dedicated to creating clean, efficient, and secure API solutions that power our high-traffic websites. This role focuses on designing and developing APIs with low overhead, rapid response times, and scalable architecture to meet demanding performance requirements.   Key Responsibilities • Develop, maintain, and enhance custom PHP applications, with a primary focus on building RESTful APIs that support our business and third-party integrations in a high-traffic environment. • Architect and design API endpoints to ensure consistent, intuitive interfaces for internal and external clients. • Write clean, efficient, and well-documented PHP code using both procedural and object-oriented approaches. • Optimize API performance and scalability, ensuring efficient resource management and rapid response times under high load. • Implement robust authentication and authorization mechanisms for secure data access, including token-based systems and session management. • Develop comprehensive API documentation and testing protocols, utilizing tools like Swagger or similar where applicable. • Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues related to API performance, integration, and security. • Conduct thorough code reviews, enforce coding standards, and mentor junior developers to foster best practices in API development. • Collaborate with cross-functional teams—including Product Managers, Front-End Developers, and QA Engineers—to ensure seamless API integration and consistent service delivery. • Leverage NoSQL databases, such as MongoDB, alongside traditional SQL databases to meet varied data storage and performance requirements. • Embrace and effectively utilize AI-driven development techniques or demonstrate a strong willingness to learn and implement AI tools that enhance coding, testing, and optimization processes. • Focus on application design that minimizes overhead while maximizing speed, efficiency, and scalability for high-traffic websites. • Stay current with emerging trends in API development, NoSQL solutions, and AI-enhanced development practices, proactively suggesting improvements to our technology stack.   Requirements • 5+ years of proven PHP development experience with a strong focus on legacy or non-framework projects. • Deep understanding of core PHP, with expertise in building and maintaining RESTful APIs. • Extensive experience with SQL and relational databases such as MySQL or PostgreSQL, including optimizing queries for high-performance API operations. • Experience with NoSQL databases (e.g., MongoDB) or a willingness to learn and apply NoSQL concepts effectively. • Demonstrated ability to design and develop secure, scalable APIs that adhere to industry standards and perform efficiently under high traffic. • Excellent troubleshooting skills and a methodical approach to debugging complex issues. • Proven track record of mentoring and guiding team members in best coding practices, particularly in API development. • Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly and collaborate effectively. • An openness to exploring and utilizing AI-driven development techniques to enhance productivity and code quality.   Preferred Skills • Familiarity with modern development practices such as unit testing and continuous integration in an API context. • Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and a solid understanding of development workflow best practices. • Basic knowledge of front-end technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to enable effective collaboration with the UI team. • Contributions to open-source PHP projects or community initiatives related to API development are a plus. • Experience working with modern frameworks—such as Java Spring Boot and PHP frameworks (e.g., Laravel, Symfony)—would be beneficial.   Work Environment & Contract Details

• Role Type: Fully Remote, Digital Nomad-Friendly
• Contract Type: Contractor / Freelancer (Not Direct Cyprus Hire)
• Rate Type: Day Rate
• Working Days: 5 Days per week (flexible schedule)
• Working Hours: Flexible, based on project needs

• Wellbeing Allowance
• Travel discounts
• Recognition & Appreciation Program