Lead PHP Developer

This position is posted by Jobgether on behalf of a partner company. We are currently looking for a Lead PHP Developer in Italy.

This role sits at the core of a fast-scaling fintech environment where you will help design, build, and evolve high-performance backend systems powering modern payment solutions. You will work on complex, distributed architectures that support white-label and SaaS platforms used across the financial ecosystem. The position combines hands-on development with architectural ownership, requiring a strong focus on scalability, security, and reliability. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to integrate third-party services and continuously improve platform capabilities. The environment is highly technical, product-driven, and innovation-oriented, with strong emphasis on clean architecture and engineering excellence. This is a high-impact role for an experienced backend engineer eager to shape mission-critical financial infrastructure.

• Design, develop, test, document, deploy, and maintain scalable backend systems from scratch
• Enhance and optimize existing API and backend architecture to improve performance and reliability
• Integrate third-party payment and fintech services, including gateways, acquirers, and verification systems
• Debug, troubleshoot, and resolve complex technical issues across production and development environments
• Ensure high-quality software delivery by building and maintaining automated test environments and frameworks
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code aligned with best engineering practices
• Collaborate with front-end engineers and cross-functional teams to deliver end-to-end solutions
• Contribute to system stability and production support, ensuring smooth operation of live services
• Participate in architectural discussions and help define scalable backend and integration strategies

Requirements:

• Strong experience in PHP backend development, with deep expertise in Symfony framework
• Solid understanding of OOP principles, SOLID/GRASP, and software design patterns
• Experience designing and building RESTful APIs and working with Doctrine ORM
• Strong knowledge of PostgreSQL, including query optimization, indexing, and schema design
• Experience with Docker and Kubernetes, including containerized application deployment
• Familiarity with distributed systems, microservices architecture, and scalable backend design
• Experience with testing frameworks such as PHPUnit, Codeception, or Behat
• Understanding of advanced architectural concepts such as CQRS, DDD, and Event Sourcing is highly valued
• Experience with CI/CD pipelines and tools such as Jenkins
• Strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and ability to work on complex technical challenges
• Nice to have: experience with large-scale fintech, payment systems, or high-load platforms

Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package aligned with experience
• Fully remote work with flexible hours within CET time zone
• 19 days of flexible paid time off
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge fintech and payment infrastructure
• Strong engineering culture focused on quality, scalability, and innovation
• Access to conferences and professional community events
• Collaborative, supportive, and values-driven remote-first environment
• Clear architectural ownership and opportunity to influence technical direction