Senior Full Stack Software Developer (back end + PHP focus)

Latch is a creative technology company operating at the intersection of software, data, and digital out-of-home media. We build and deploy dynamic, data-driven experiences that run in the real world, not just on screens in someone’s hand. Our work spans custom software, automation, and large-scale campaign infrastructure for some of the most interesting media environments in the market.

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Full Stack PHP Developer (leaning back end) to join our development team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, enhancing, and maintaining web applications within the Out of Home advertising industry, working with both front and back end technologies.

You will collaborate closely with product managers, designers, and other developers to deliver high-quality software that meets the needs of our users.

Key responsibilities:

• Full Stack Development: Develop end-to-end web applications using PHP for back-end and collaborate with UI/UX designers to build functional, responsive user interfaces using modern front-end frameworks.
• API Development & Integration: Build and maintain RESTful APIs for integration with third-party services and other internal systems.
• Database Management: Design, optimise, and maintain databases to ensure high performance and availability.
• Version Control: Maintain code integrity and organisation through version control tools (Git, GitHub).
• Security Best Practices: Implement best practices in application security to ensure data protection and compliance with industry standards.
• Performance Optimisation: Monitor application performance and refactor code for scalability, minimising latency and downtime.
• Testing and Debugging: Write unit tests and integration tests for PHP code, and debug both back-end and front-end issues.
• Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and to specifications.

Required skills and qualifications:

• Full Stack Development Expertise: Expert-level knowledge in PHP frameworks (e.g., Laravel) and front-end technologies (HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Vue.js, React).
• Database Management: Strong experience in SQL (MySQL), and familiarity with database optimisation and indexing.
• RESTful APIs: Proficiency in building and consuming RESTful services and working with third-party API integrations.
• Version Control: Deep experience with Git for source control management and collaboration.
• Server Management: Experience with server deployment processes, working with cloud platforms (e.g. DigitalOcean, AWS etc.), and configuring server environments.
• Testing Frameworks: Familiarity with testing frameworks such as PHPUnit.
• Security: Implementing and enforcing security best practices to protect data and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Agile Methodologies: Experience working in Agile or Scrum environments, with a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Performance Optimisation: Monitor application performance, refactor code for scalability, and minimise latency and downtime.

Preferred skills and experience:

• Experience with Python and modern frameworks (FastAPI and Django).
• Knowledge of infrastructure-as-code (Terraform, CDK).
• Familiarity with DevOps practices and container orchestration (Docker).

Educational requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.

Why join us?

We’re a motivated group of people who value open collaboration, professionalism and care in our craft. We work on innovative projects that are pushing what’s possible in a fun & growing industry.

We’re offering a lot of opportunity to make a serious impact on the company and have a guiding hand in how we grow and change over the coming years.

We provide the usual stuff around competitive salary, benefits and flexible working arrangements (WFH & our beautiful office in Parnell).

And we’re nice people!

Application notes:

Please send your CV and cover letter to garth@latchdigital.co.nz with the subject line "Full stack Developer Application". Links to your LinkedIn, GitHub, or portfolio are highly encouraged.

We look forward to hearing from you!