Backend PHP Developer

About Smooth Commerce:

Smooth Commerce operates a dynamic B2B SaaS platform specializing in first-party white-label digital ordering, customer marketing, and loyalty systems for web and application use. Our primary focus is the restaurant technology sector across the United States and Canada. We empower clients to increase sales, transition transactions to more cost-effective platforms, and leverage data-driven insights for prosperity. We are committed to continuous innovation and collaboration to meet evolving digital requirements.

Details:

• Timeframe: Full Time
• Salary: $80,000 annually
• Location: Remote, Canada-based Greater Toronto Area preferred
• Reporting To: Platform Architect and AI Architect
• Level of Experience: Minimum 6 years intermediate+

Willingness to meet in person to collaborate, strong verbal and written communication skills, and experience working in small fast-paced environments are required.

Role Summary: Backend PHP Development & System Scaling

The Backend PHP Developer is a core member of the engineering team responsible for building, maintaining, and scaling the server-side systems that power Smooth’s mobile and web applications. This role involves developing robust APIs for mobile clients and integrating with critical third-party platforms—such as POS systems, payment gateways, and delivery providers—to support Smooth’s end-to-end QSR and retail solutions.

Key Responsibilities

API & Backend Development

• Builds and maintains scalable backend services using PHP (primarily Symfony), MySQL, and modern web technologies.
• Develops RESTful APIs to enable seamless front-end/backend interaction and platform integrations.

Platform Integrations

• Leads complex third-party integrations—such as Deliverect, POS systems, and payment providers—expanding our platform’s capabilities and client onboarding potential.

System Architecture & Optimization

• Designs modular and testable code with performance, security, and scalability in mind.
• Regularly optimizes queries and improves backend efficiency in a high-volume, real-time environment.

Agile Collaboration & Delivery

• Participates in Agile/Scrum ceremonies, collaborates closely with Product, QA, and Front-End teams.
• Contributes to sprint planning, technical estimation, and ongoing product improvement.

Mentorship & Documentation

• Provides architectural input, documents system behavior, and helps enforce best practices around security, testing (Codeception, CI/CD), and DevOps (Docker, AWS, Ansible).

Technical Stack & Expertise

• Languages & Frameworks: PHP 7/8, (Symfony)
• Databases: MySQL, Redis
• Devops: Experience with deployments using Ansible or similar, knowledge and experience using AWS services, optimizing web servers and MySQL
• API: RESTful services, JSON-based communication
• DevOps & Tools: Git, CI/CD, Jenkins, Docker, Ansible
• Architecture & Patterns: MVC, SOLID, DDD, microservices, event-driven design
• Security: Authentication/authorization, SQL injection and XSS mitigation

Additional Requirements

• Experience Level: Minimum 6 years intermediate+ developer with proven backend expertise (PHP/Symfony, MySQL, APIs, integrations).
• Soft Skills & Comprehension: Strong ability to take requirements, restate them clearly, and propose solution paths. Excellent communication skills and cultural fit are as important as technical ability.
• Independence & Problem Solving: Ability to work through challenges proactively and think beyond just the immediate task.

Why This Role Matters to Product Strategy

The Backend Developer is a critical bridge between Product strategy and platform execution. They translate user and client needs into backend solutions that scale, integrate, and perform reliably. Their expertise is crucial in:

• Evaluating the feasibility of product features or integrations.
• Mitigating risks related to technical debt, security, or performance.
• Accelerating time-to-market by delivering stable APIs and backend features aligned with roadmap priorities.