Backend Full Stack Developer

ENVIRONMENT:

YOUR coding talents as a Backend Full Stack Developer are sought by a dynamic Digital Agency where you will design, build & maintain robust Backend services while also contributing to Frontend features. You’re a Backend-first Developer (around 60% Backend, 40% Frontend) who enjoys shaping digital platforms from start to finish. PHP, GraphQL and CraftCMS are your home turf, but you’re also confident stepping into React to help out the Frontend team. You’ll work on projects for large organisations in finance and pensions, designing and maintaining robust backends and building features that make a real impact. You’ll have plenty of autonomy, but also the chance to guide junior colleagues and help set the tone for how they grow as a Dev team.

 

DUTIES:

• Develop and maintain Backend services using PHP (CraftCMS and Symfony are a plus).
• Design and optimise GraphQL APIs to support Frontend applications.
• Build and maintain Frontend components in React, with a focus on performance and accessibility.
• Collaborate closely with Designers, Frontend Developers, and Project Managers to deliver end-to-end solutions.
• Troubleshoot, debug, and resolve bottlenecks where backend work is blocking Frontend teams.
• Ensure code quality through testing, code reviews, and best practices.
• Take ownership of features and mentor junior team members.
• Stay up to date with new technologies and contribute to technical decisions.
• (Bonus) Explore opportunities to apply AI and automation to improve internal processes and client solutions.

REQUIREMENTS:

• 4+ Years of professional development experience (Mid to Senior level).
• Strong proficiency in PHP and Backend frameworks.
• Experience with CraftCMS or willingness to quickly get up to speed.
• Solid understanding of GraphQL and API design.
• Strong React and Next.js skills for Frontend feature development.
• Someone who “challenges” ticket definitions and spots unclarities and helps get clarity when things are unclear.
• Strong communication and soft skills so they can work well across Design/FE/BE and with the team.
• Ability to help shape the vision of the Development teams as we grow.
• Experience with modern build tools (Webpack, Vite, etc.) and Git workflows.
• Ability to work independently, manage priorities, and collaborate in a small team environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to translate business needs into technical solutions.
• Located in Cape Town (or willing to work from Cape Town office on Wednesdays).

Advantageous –

• It’s a plus if you have experience with Finance or Pension Fund projects, mentoring small Development teams, accessibility, or exploring AI-driven solutions.
• CraftCMS and Symfony.

While we would really like to respond to every application, should you not be contacted for this position within 10 working days please consider your application unsuccessful.

 

COMMENTS:

When applying for jobs, ensure that you have the minimum job requirements. OnlySA Citizens will be considered for this role. If you are not in the mentioned location of any of the jobs, please note your relocation plans in all applications for jobs and correspondence. 

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