Backend Integration Developer

XIST4 IT Recruitment Ltd; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected cultural institution is seeking a Backend Integration Developer to enhance digital capabilities through API integrations and Back End development. This hands-on role involves working with modern PHP and Linux to deliver impactful solutions. The position offers a salary of £50-60,000, hybrid working, and strong benefits including generous annual leave and pension contributions.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Exceptional pension contributions

Healthcare membership options

Qualifications

• Strong skills in Back End development and systems integration.
• Modern PHP (v8+) experience required.
• Proficiency in Linux server environments necessary.

Responsibilities

• Develop, integrate, and maintain APIs across multiple platforms.
• Write and optimise Back End code with a focus on PHP.
• Support server infrastructure across Linux and Windows environments.

Skills

Back End development

API management

Modern PHP (v8+)

Linux proficiency

Problem-solving

Tools

MySQL

Git

Docker

Ansible

Job description

Overview

Backend Integration Developer - Modern PHP, APIs, Cloud

Hybrid: Two days in our client's London office and three days working from home.

On Monday morning, you might be refining an API connection between a collections database and a public-facing platform. By Wednesday, you could be writing a PHP 8.2 script to automate image processing for a new exhibition launch. Friday afternoon? Testing out an AI tool to help curators search archive materials faster.

That’s the reality of life as a Backend Integration Developer here. No two weeks look the same. The mix of Back End software development, systems integration, and cloud infrastructure work means you’ll constantly be learning, solving problems, and collaborating with colleagues from across the organisation.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a technically adaptable developer to join a nationally respected cultural institution with an ambitious digital vision. You’ll work on varied and meaningful projects; from API-driven integrations to AI experimentation – helping to shape a modern, secure, and scalable technology environment. You’ll operate in a multi-platform environment: Windows is predominant, but production Linux systems are crucial to the role.

Backend Integration Developer – Key Skills

You don’t need to have "Backend Integration Developer" on your CV to be a great fit. If you’ve worked in Back End development, software engineering, or API management – and you’re confident with modern PHP and Linux – we’d love to hear from you.

Essential:

• Strong skills in Back End development and systems integration.
• Modern PHP (v8+) experience, ideally including PHP 8.2+ or above.
• Proficiency in Linux server environments, with Windows server familiarity.
• Experience developing and managing APIs.
• Familiarity with MySQL and at least one search platform such as Elasticsearch or SOLR.
• Knowledge of Git, version control, and CI/CD pipelines.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.

Useful to have:

• Python and JavaScript (Node.js) for automation or Back End logic.
• Experience with other OO programming languages.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms, especially Microsoft Azure.
• Containerisation tools such as Docker.
• Automation tools like Ansible.
• Interest in AI, machine learning, and related technologies.

Backend Integration Developer – What you’ll be doing

As a Backend Integration Developer, you’ll work across Back End systems, APIs, and digital platforms to deliver seamless integrations, improve performance, and support new digital capabilities. This is a hands-on, varied role where you’ll contribute ideas, explore new technologies, and make a visible impact.

• Develop, integrate, and maintain APIs across multiple platforms and services.
• Write and optimise Back End code, with a focus on PHP and automation scripts.
• Support server infrastructure across Linux (production) and Windows (development and other services) environments.
• Improve deployment workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing.
• Contribute to AI-related projects and innovation initiatives.
• Enhance search functionality and digital content delivery.
• Collaborate with internal teams to deliver secure, high-performing solutions.
• Maintain clear technical documentation and troubleshooting guides.

Why join?

• Work on high-profile, mission-driven projects that reach millions.
• Be part of preserving and sharing a Legacy that spans generations, using technology to connect people with history in new and meaningful ways.
• Exposure to a wide tech stack, from PHP and Python to AI and cloud tools.
• Hybrid working pattern with a collaborative, supportive team.
• Strong focus on professional development and learning.

Salary & Benefits

Salary: £50-60,000 (dependent on experience)

• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 after 5 years) plus public holidays
• Exceptional pension contributions (16.7%-24.3%)
• Free access to partner museum exhibitions
• Enhanced parental benefits and family-friendly policies
• Cycle-to-work and season ticket loan schemes
• Healthcare membership options

Ready to bring your Back End and integration skills to an organisation with purpose?

Apply now for a confidential conversation about this unique opportunity.

Please note: Shortlisted candidates will receive the official job description later in the process. It will carry a different job title to the one advertised, but the scope and responsibilities remain exactly as described here.