Backend Developer

POSITION SUMMARY

The Backend Developer is a key member of the tech team, responsible for building and maintaining the server-side logic, APIs, and database architecture . This cloud-native SaaS application uses PHP for backend development with MariaDB databases, deployed in containerized Docker environments on AWS infrastructure. This role works closely with frontend developers and functional scrum units to create scalable, secure, and high-performance solutions for risk management and compliance workflows.

SPECIFIC JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

· Develop and maintain server-side application logic using PHP for the platform.

· Design, implement, and optimize MariaDB database schemas, queries, and stored procedures.

· Build and maintain RESTful APIs to support frontend Angular applications and third-party integrations.

· Implement secure authentication and authorization mechanisms including MFA, SSO via SAML, and role-based access controls.

· Work with Docker containerized environments and maintain application deployment processes.

· Optimize application performance, database queries, and server-side logic for scalability.

· Implement security best practices including SQL injection prevention, data encryption, and OWASP compliance.

· Collaborate with frontend developers to integrate Angular components with backend services.

· Maintain and enhance existing PHP codebase while following modern PHP frameworks and best practices.

· Implement error monitoring, logging, and observability using tools like Sentry and CloudWatch.

· Participate in code reviews to ensure code quality and best practices.

· Maintain adherence to security standards including HIPAA, NIST CSF, and CIS benchmarks.

· Participate in Agile sprints with a 10-week release cycle.

· Perform other duties within the scope of the role as assigned.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

· 7+ years of backend web development experience with strong PHP expertise.

· 5+ years of experience with MariaDB or MySQL database design and optimization.

· Experience building and maintaining RESTful APIs for frontend consumption.

· Experience with Git/GitHub and CI/CD workflows.

· Experience with Docker containerized applications.

· Experience implementing authentication and authorization systems (OAuth, SAML, JWT).

· Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.

· Experience with AWS cloud services is a plus.

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS, & KNOWLEDGE

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or related field (or equivalent practical experience).

The initiative and ability to:

· Be proactive and possess strong problem-solving skills for complex backend architectures.

· Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams in a cloud-native environment.

· Stay current with PHP ecosystem, security best practices, and emerging backend technologies.

· Work effectively in a fast-paced environment with structured release cycles.

Strong understanding of object-oriented programming (OOP), design patterns, and SOLID principles. Deep understanding of database design, normalization, indexing, and query optimization. Strong knowledge of security best practices including OWASP Top 10, SQL injection prevention, and data encryption. Understanding of RESTful API design principles and best practices.

Proficiency in the following technologies:

· PHP (modern versions 7.4+, preferably PHP 8.x) and object-oriented programming

· Modern PHP frameworks (Laravel, Symfony, or CodeIgniter)

· MariaDB/MySQL database management and optimization

· RESTful API design and development

· Git and GitHub

· Docker and containerized application architecture

· Linux/Unix command line and server administration

· SQL query optimization and database indexing

· Authentication protocols (OAuth 2.0, SAML, JWT)

· Error monitoring and logging tools (Sentry, CloudWatch)

Familiarity with AWS cloud services (EC2, S3, RDS, CloudWatch), microservices architecture, API documentation (OpenAPI/Swagger), testing frameworks (PHPUnit), frontend technologies (Angular, HTML, CSS, JavaScript), and compliance frameworks (HIPAA, NIST CSF).