Intermediate Backend Developer
Summary
Intermediate backend developer at PHQ, an Auckland creative agency, building technical solutions behind creative projects — web apps, games, cloud architecture, DevOps, Gen-AI, and installations — alongside developers, designers, and producers. Core stack: Python/PHP/TypeScript, Git, and solid frontend web fundamentals.
About us
PHQ (phq.nz) is an independent, digitally led creative agency based in Auckland, founded by the Phantom London studio (http://www.phantom.land/). Our very essence is to shape shift - to adapt and evolve, collaborating with brands that challenge and endlessly inspire us. We transform challenges of all shapes and sizes into inventive, engaging and performance driven solutions. For us, every project is a unique opportunity to lead the industry and deliver groundbreaking results.
Put simply, we want to do incredible work that we’re proud of and make our clients love us. Where there’s an innovative solution to be had or simple amends to complete, we will tackle it even better than anyone could have imagined.
About the role
As an Intermediate Backend Developer, you’ll collaborate with other Developers, Designers and Producers to bring creative ideas to life through technical solutions that closely align with the creative vision. You’ll have the opportunity to work across a diverse range of projects, including web apps and games, cloud architecture, DevOps, Gen-AI, creative tools and installations.
About you
We’re looking for an enthusiastic Intermediate Backend Developer with a broad range of skills across web development and related technologies. You’ll be someone who enjoys working across different projects, collaborating with creative and technical teams, and bringing strong technical expertise to the table.
Must-have experience:
Minimum of 2 years development experience
Agency or relevant experience in a commercial environment
Expert knowledge of one or more relevant backend programming languages and methodologies (Python, PHP, Typescript etc)
A strong understanding of Git & confidence with command line tools
A strong understanding of frontend web technologies (HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Capability to work on simultaneous projects and meet deadlines
Bonus points:
Degree in Computer Science or related technical discipline
Your own website, showcasing your own work and interests
Open source / community contributions (e.g. on GitHub)
Experience with the following:
CMS frameworks (e.g. Wagtail/Django, Drupal)
SQL databases (e.g. Postgres, MySQL)
Frontend frameworks (e.g. React, Angular)
Web application security (OWASP etc)
Automated testing (unit testing etc)
Devops tools & internet technologies (e.g. Linux, Docker, CI/CD, Terraform, HTTP, DNS etc) for both development and production environments
Cloud platforms - Google Cloud, AWS and/or Azure
Inclusivity at PHQ
We are an equal opportunity employer and believe our environment, ideas and work can only be it’s best if our team is representative of all the incredible diversity of thought that exists in the world around us.
All PHQ team members are welcome in our team without regard to ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.