Laravel / PHP Developer

About the Company

First Focus is a prominent managed service provider in Australasia, trusted by over 1,000 organisations to maintain their IT security, productivity, and growth. While known for managed IT services, they have developed a skilled software engineering team that creates custom applications, integrations, and business systems across diverse industries. Their developers work directly with consultants and clients, tackling real business challenges and making meaningful impacts rather than just maintaining a single internal product.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Laravel / PHP Developer for a 12-month fixed-term contract. The role involves working on various projects including customer engagements and internal initiatives, using modern PHP, Laravel, and Laravel Filament technologies. You will influence architecture, mentor team members, contribute to technical direction, and maintain hands-on development responsibilities. The work environment offers a dynamic variety of projects, so no two weeks are the same.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, enhance, and support Laravel applications for multiple customers and internal systems.
• Create scalable ERP and CRM systems tailored to business needs.
• Design and implement RESTful APIs and integrations with third-party services.
• Craft user-friendly administrative interfaces with Laravel Filament.
• Optimize MySQL and PostgreSQL databases for better performance and scalability.
• Participate in architectural decisions, establish engineering standards, and contribute to design reviews.
• Improve CI/CD pipelines and deployment workflows.
• Utilize Docker containers and work with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Explore AI-assisted development methods that add genuine customer value.
• Engage in code reviews and actively share knowledge with the engineering team.
• Mentor other developers and help foster a collaborative engineering culture.

Candidate Profile

• Proven professional experience with PHP and Laravel frameworks.
• Strong skills using Laravel Filament to build interfaces.
• Experienced in designing and consuming RESTful APIs.
• Advanced SQL knowledge with MySQL and PostgreSQL databases.
• Familiar with Git version control, CI/CD, and agile development workflows.
• Hands-on experience with Docker containerization.
• Exposure to cloud services like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Solid understanding of software architecture principles and design patterns.
• Front-end experience with Vue.js or React.
• Comfortable working in Agile teams.
• Effective communication with both technical peers and non-technical stakeholders.
• A genuine curiosity and passion for solving complex business problems.

Experience with ERP, CRM, or financial systems is a strong advantage.

Benefits and Culture

• Competitive salary ranging NZ$160,000 to NZ$175,000 based on experience and skills.
• Free access to Uprise for confidential coaching and psychological support.
• Hybrid and flexible working options supporting a balanced lifestyle.
• Opportunities for growth with up to 10 paid study days annually, certification fee coverage, and salary increments for approved certifications.
• Engaging social events, team celebrations, and a supportive work environment.
• Varied projects using modern technologies and engineering methodologies.
• Ability to influence software architecture and technical direction.
• A collaborative culture that values ideas over job titles.
• A team-oriented atmosphere that encourages joint problem-solving and shared successes.

Additional Information

First Focus actively supports neurodiversity by encouraging neurodiverse candidates to apply, offering flexible options to best demonstrate their skills. The recruitment process includes AI-assisted screening, which does not make final hiring decisions and complies with the Privacy Act 2020 (NZ).