Application Modernization Consultant

Alliance of Professionals & Consultants, Inc. (APC); Cary (NC); Hybrid; USD 71,635 - 78,523; Full time

Job summary

A professional staffing organization is seeking an experienced Application Modernization Consultant to lead the upgrade of legacy PHP applications to modern cloud environments. This role involves assessing legacy systems, developing modernization roadmaps, and implementing migration plans. Strong PHP and cloud experience are essential, along with excellent stakeholder communication. This is a hybrid position based in Cary, NC with a contract duration of over six months.

Qualifications

• Strong background in PHP development, including legacy versions.
• Experience leading application modernization initiatives.
• Proficiency with cloud technologies (AWS or Azure).

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments of legacy PHP applications.
• Develop a phased modernization roadmap.
• Design and implement migration plans to cloud environments.

Skills

PHP development

Application modernization experience

AWS or Azure proficiency

Web architecture understanding

AI-assisted development tools

Communication skills

Tools

AWS EC2

Docker

Kubernetes

Git

Job description

Apply for the Application Modernization Consultant role at Alliance of Professionals & Consultants, Inc. (APC)

Job Title

Application Modernization Consultant

Type of Engagement

6+ month contract (Not open to 3rd party C2C consultants. Visa sponsorship is not available)

Work Location

Hybrid position in Cary, NC

Onsite interview required

Onsite interview is required!

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Application Modernization and Cloud Migration Consultant to lead the uplift of legacy PHP-based applications into a modern, scalable, and secure cloud environment. Many of these applications are core to daily operations but were built before the emergence of modern frameworks and cloud-native platforms.

The consultant will assess, redesign, and transition these systems while leveraging AI‑driven automation and modernization tools such as Rector, GitHub Copilot, and AI‑assisted refactoring or testing frameworks to accelerate transformation efforts and improve maintainability.

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of legacy PHP applications, including integrations, dependencies, and database structures.
• Develop a phased modernization roadmap, evaluating options such as refactoring, re‑platforming, or replacement with cloud‑native or SaaS alternatives.
• Design and implement a migration plan to cloud or hosted environments (AWS or Azure preferred).
• Work closely with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition with minimal operational disruption.
• Recommend modernization frameworks and approaches (e.g., Laravel, Node.js, or low‑code/no‑code tools such as Power Apps, AppSheet, or Retool).
• Integrate AI‑powered automation tools — such as Rector for automated PHP upgrades, GitHub Copilot for code suggestions, and AI testing utilities — to streamline code modernization and improve quality.
• Identify opportunities to enhance security, scalability, and performance as part of the uplift process.
• Deliver proof‑of‑concept (POC) solutions demonstrating modernization approaches and value.
• Provide knowledge transfer and training to internal development teams on new technologies, AI‑assisted workflows, and cloud‑native maintenance best practices.

Required Skills & Experience

• Strong background in PHP development, including familiarity with legacy versions (PHP 5.x and earlier).
• Proven experience leading application modernization and cloud migration initiatives.
• Proficiency with AWS (EC2, RDS, Lambda, S3) or Azure App Services and modern DevOps toolchains.
• Solid understanding of web architecture, APIs, and database integration (MySQL, PostgreSQL).
• Practical experience using AI‑assisted development tools (e.g., Rector, GitHub Copilot, or automated testing frameworks).
• Ability to balance modernization goals with preservation of existing business logic and user experience.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, bridging technical and non‑technical teams.
• Experience evaluating low‑code or SaaS alternatives (Power Apps, AppSheet, Mendix) a plus.

Big Bonus Points If You Have

• Demonstrated success in re‑platforming or refactoring legacy PHP/LAMP applications using modern frameworks (Laravel, Symfony) or containers.
• Experience with containerization and serverless deployments (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, version control (Git), and DevOps automation for legacy environments.
• Cloud certifications (AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Azure Solutions Architect Expert) preferred.
• Experience implementing AI‑driven automation and refactoring frameworks (e.g., Rector, AI testing, or code remediation tools).

Job Requisition # 39942

A reasonable estimate of the pay range for this role is $52.00 - $57.00 per hour. The disclosed pay range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. The compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case, such as skills and experience levels.

Meet APC

APC is a professional staffing and services organization focused on engaging people and positively impacting lives. As “Professionals serving Professionals”®, we take pride in providing our employees and contractors with the highest level of customer service and support.

EEO Statement

APC is committed to creating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetics, or veteran status.