Job Description
What You’ll Be Responsible For:
* Designing, building, and maintaining backend systems using C++ and PHP as primary technologies
* Owning features and systems end-to-end, from architecture through production delivery
* Solving complex technical problems independently and proactively
* Providing daily written updates on progress, decisions, and blockers
* Actively participating in technical and product discussions via Slack in a chat-driven environment
* Collaborating with a small, senior team in a fully asynchronous operating model
Qualifications
Technical Requirements (Non-Negotiable):
* Expert-level proficiency in both C++ and PHP
* Clear commitment to C++ and PHP as long-term backend technologies (not stepping stones)
* Demonstrated problem-solving ability, validated through a paid C++ and PHP technical challenge
* Strong backend systems thinking (performance, reliability, maintainability)
* SQL experience is a plus, but not required
Communication & Collaboration Expectations:
* Extremely strong English proficiency, including nuance, tact, and professional judgment
* Comfortable being highly visible and highly active in written discussions
* Able to communicate clearly and concisely in a fully asynchronous, Slack-based environment
* Proactive in surfacing risks, questions, and recommendations without being prompted
Work Style & Autonomy:
* Thrives without traditional management, standups, or sprint structures
* Strong self-management, ownership mentality, and bias toward action
* Able to operate effectively in a flat, non-hierarchical organization
* Comfortable making decisions independently and being accountable for outcomes
Time Zone & Availability:
* Must have at least 6 hours of daily overlap with: US Pacific Time (PT) or Central European Time (CET)
* Time zone overlap is especially critical during the first 3 months for onboarding and alignment
Hardware Requirements (Strict):
* MacBook with Apple Silicon (M1 or newer)
* Minimum 36GB RAM (64GB+ strongly preferred)
* Latest version of macOS installed prior to start date
Additional Information
* Selected candidates will be asked to complete a paid C++ and PHP technical challenge.
* The challenge is expected to take about 10 hours to complete and will be compensated at a flat rate of $500.
* Performance in the challenge will be used to evaluate problem-solving ability, code quality, and communication clarity