Backend Engineering Internship (PHP, Python)

TL;DR

Backend Engineering Internship (PHP, Python): Building and improving real production features with an accent on APIs, databases, and scalable systems. Focus on implementing and testing backend features under supervision, contributing to system integration, and improving code quality through refactoring and bug fixing.

Location: Must work fully on-site in Basel, Switzerland

Company

hirify.global is a pioneer in scholarly open access publishing, fostering open scientific exchange across diverse journals since 1996.

What you will do

• Implement and test small backend features or API endpoints under supervision.
• Contribute to integration tasks between backend components and other internal systems.
• Identify and fix bugs, and support small refactoring tasks to improve code quality.
• Work with production-grade backend patterns and architectural guidelines.
• Collaborate with frontend and other technical teams to ensure smooth system integration.
• Support testing, debugging, and process optimization activities.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a Computer Science, Software Engineering, or similar academic program (3rd year or higher)
• Fluent in English (C1)
• Basic backend development experience in PHP and Python (university or personal projects acceptable).
• Understanding of APIs, HTTP fundamentals, and server-side logic.
• Familiarity with relational databases and basic SQL.
• Ability to write clean, modular, and maintainable code.
• Comfortable using Git and version control workflows.

Culture & Benefits

• Opportunity to contribute to the academic/scientific community.
• Flexible working hours.
• Team bond strengthening through team-building events.
• Professional growth opportunities with a global training system.
• Working in a collaborative and socially responsible team.
• Full-coverage insurance for accidents/daily sickness.