Junior Backend Engineer – PHP & API Development

About the role

Travelcircus is looking for a Junior Backend Engineer to help build and scale its travel platform. You will work on core services, APIs and booking systems, collaborating closely with product, design and other engineering teams.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and extend platform services and booking systems.
• Design, implement and maintain a robust transactional API used internally and by third‑party partners.
• Leverage AI tools (e.g., Claude, Codex) to improve development efficiency.
• Participate in code reviews, pair programming and agile ceremonies.
• Enhance the existing codebase that serves tens of thousands of daily users.
• Identify and resolve bugs, performance bottlenecks, and scalability issues.

Required profile

• Hands‑on experience building web applications and distributed services.
• Solid understanding of PHP, object‑oriented programming and relational data modelling.
• Proficiency in SQL and ability to write and debug queries.
• Familiarity with AI coding assistants such as Claude or Codex.
• Comfortable working with Linux/macOS command‑line environments.
• Strong verbal and written communication in English; German is a plus.
• Experience in an Agile development setting.

Required skills

• PHP
• Object‑Oriented Programming
• SQL
• Relational databases
• Linux/macOS command line
• AI agents (Claude, Codex)
• Message queues (plus)
• Elasticsearch (plus)

What we offer

• Flexible working hours with part‑time, flexitime and 2 days remote per week.
• Stylish loft office with a start‑up atmosphere, regular team events and cooking sessions.
• Transparent communication through flat hierarchies and weekly meetings.
• Comprehensive onboarding, continuous training and clear promotion paths.
• Additional benefits: BVG public‑transport ticket discount, €1 080 travel budget, 28 + vacation days, health management and pension plan.