Backend Engineer (Node.js / PHP)

Backend Engineer (Node.js / PHP)Job title: Backend Engineer (Node.js / PHP)Location: SofiaOverview of the role:We are looking for a skilled Backend Developer with experience in Node.js or PHP (Laravel) to join our team. You will work on building and maintaining scalable backend applications and services, contributing to a robust and high-performance infrastructure that powers a seamless user experience across our platforms.You will develop backend services in Node.js and support/improve existing PHP/Laravel (Nova) systems as needed . You’ll collaborate closely with other engineers, participate in technical discussions, and help evolve our backend architecture and standard processes. You will own the performance and stability of mobile backend services: ensure all APIs operate efficiently, proactively identify and resolve issues, drive rapid incident resolution, and be accountable for service reliability, uptime, and seamless integration with mobile applications.This role is ideal for someone who enjoys clean, maintainable code, API design, and continuous improvement. Experience with distributed systems, microservices, state management, and performance optimization is highly valued. Familiarity with cloud technologies, message brokers (e.g., Kafka), and caching systems (e.g., Redis) is a strong advantage.This role follows a hybrid approach to working, allowing you to combine working from home with working in our modern offices. These discussions are between you and your manager to find the best pattern for you both, while recognising that quality time together is essential for keeping us mission-aligned.Our teams work from a lively location nestled within this historic city. Enjoy the best of both worlds with winter and summer offices, tantalizing free snacks and a gaming paradise for endless entertainment.What you’ll do:Develop and maintain scalable backend services and APIs using Node.js and PHP/Laravel (Nova)Collaborate with mainly mobile developers, DevOps engineers, product owners, and other stakeholders to deliver robust and secure backend solutionsParticipate in technical design discussions and continuously improve backend architecture and performanceDesign and implement RESTful APIs and integrations, including real-time features (e.g., WebSockets) when neededIntegrate with databases (SQL and NoSQL), message brokers, third-party services, and external APIsWrite clean, reusable, and testable code, Unit tests and help maintain high standards for code quality through reviewsDebug and optimize backend systems for performance, scalability, and securityMaintain user documentation and API guidelinesPerform related duties as assignedWhat you’ll bring:Proven professional software engineering experience, with strong hands-on in backend development2+ years of backend experience in either Node.js (typescript) or PHP (Laravel; Laravel is a plus)Solid experience designing and integrating RESTful APIs (SOAP exposure is a plus).Strong grasp of backend a...