Senior Software Developer PHP and Laravel

Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Senior Software Developer with expertise in PHP and Laravel to lead the development of high-performance web applications. The ideal candidate will play a key role in architecting, designing, and implementing scalable solutions, mentoring junior developers, and ensuring the delivery of robust, secure, and efficient software systems.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Software Architecture & Development:
• Design, develop, and maintain complex web and mobile applications using Flutter, Android, Laravel, PHP, and MySQL.
• Lead architectural decisions to ensure scalability, security, and performance.
• Design, document and implement best practices for software development, code quality, and security.
• Maintain and improve existing applications, ensuring long-term maintainability.
2. API Development & Third-Party Integrations:
• Develop and manage RESTful APIs for seamless integration with external services and frontend applications.
• Work with third-party services, including payment gateways, authentication providers, and cloud storage.
• Ensure API security, OAuth authentication, and data protection compliance.
3. Database Management & Performance Optimization:
• Design and optimize database schemas and queries for high-performance applications.
• Implement database indexing, caching strategies, and query optimization techniques.
• Manage data migrations, backups, and recovery processes.
4. Leadership & Mentorship:
• Guide and mentor junior and mid-level developers, conducting code reviews and technical training.
• Promote a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the development team.
• Lead technical discussions and architectural reviews.

5. DevOps & Deployment:
• Design, Implement and Manage CI/CD pipelines, ensuring automated testing and efficient deployment processes.
• Design, Configure and maintain cloud hosting.
• Monitor and improve application reliability, uptime, and system health.
6. Testing, Debugging & Security:
• Implement unit testing, integration testing, and automated testing strategies.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve complex software bugs and security vulnerabilities.
• Ensure compliance with industry security standards.
Requirements & Qualifications:
- Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience: Minimum 5+ years of experience in PHP development, with at least 3+ years working with Laravel.
- Technical Skills:
• Expertise in PHP, Laravel, MySQL, and MVC architecture.
• Strong knowledge of object-oriented programming (OOP) and design patterns.
• Experience with mobile frontend development.
• Proficiency in Git, CI/CD pipelines, Docker, Kubernetes, and cloud platforms.
• Experience with GraphQL and WebSockets is a plus.
- Soft Skills:
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet project deadlines.
• Passion for continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies.
Nice-to-Have Skills:
• Experience with serverless computing (AWS Lambda, Firebase Functions, etc.).
• Knowledge of NoSQL databases (MongoDB, Firebase, DynamoDB).
• Experience with blockchain or AI-powered applications.

Please Note:
* Candidates from Pretoria and surrounding areas will be given preference.
* Candidates with Afrikaans as first language will be given preference.
* Should you not receive any feedback regarding your application, please consider your application as unsuccessful.