Mid-level Backend Developer (PHP/Node.js)

About the role

ROMEO is building one of the world’s largest dating and social platforms for gay, bi and trans people. As a mid‑level Backend Developer you will help design, implement and maintain the services that power millions of daily users.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain backend services across a PHP API and Node.js micro‑services.
• Design and evolve database structures, write efficient SQL queries and optimise performance at scale.
• Write well‑tested code, conduct code reviews and ensure high code quality.
• Handle sensitive user data with strict security and privacy standards.
• Debug production incidents and contribute to the reliability and scalability of the platform.

Required profile

• 2–4 years of hands‑on experience building backend applications.
• Strong foundation in object‑oriented programming; willingness to work with PHP and Node.js.
• Comfortable with relational databases and able to write and analyse non‑trivial SQL queries.
• Experience writing automated tests and valuing test coverage.
• Fluent English for daily communication; legal right to work in Germany.

Required skills

• PHP
• Node.js
• SQL and relational database concepts
• AMQP (message queues) – nice to have
• Kubernetes – nice to have

What we offer

• Hybrid working model (2–3 days per week in the Berlin office).
• €40 employer contribution towards the Germany Job Ticket.
• EGYM Wellpass (€20/month employee contribution).
• In‑house German language classes.
• Annual learning budget for conferences, courses or certifications.
• Modern central Berlin office and an international, English‑speaking team.