Senior Backend Developer (PHP/Java)

Location: Malta

Company

hirify.global operates RaceBets, a global horse racing betting product used by millions.

What you will do

• Develop REST APIs and backend services in PHP 8+ for web and B2B platforms.
• Own features end to end, from requirements clarification through implementation, testing, and release.
• Improve performance, architecture, security, and SQL in a high-traffic, SQL-first codebase.
• Build and maintain integrations with payment providers, data feeds, and business partners.
• Use AI tools to accelerate development while maintaining code quality.
• Debug and integrate across the PHP/Java boundary, with occasional Java work accounting for approximately 15% of the role.

Requirements

• Strong production experience with PHP 8+, REST APIs, and SQL.
• Experience with automated testing and a high quality bar.
• Product mindset, including clarifying requirements, challenging assumptions, and owning outcomes.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively in a small team.
• Mid-level or senior experience; demonstrated engineering craft and mindset are valued more than a specific number of years.

Nice to have

• Java experience.
• Vue 3 and TypeScript experience or interest in growing into frontend development.
• Betting or fintech domain experience.
• Experience with Symfony components.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on RaceBets with high ownership and direct product impact.
• Opportunity to grow from PHP into Java or frontend development.
• Work in a large international organization with approximately 1,700 employees across seven offices.
• Collaborative environment centered on initiative, ownership, and continuous challenge.