Backend Integration Developer

Backend Polyglot Integration Developer – Modern PHP, OOP, APIs, Cloud

Hybrid: Two days in our client's Manchester office and three days working from home.

On Monday morning, you might be refining an API connection between a collections database and a public-facing platform. By Wednesday, you could be writing code PHP 8.2 or Python 3.1x to automate image processing for a new exhibition launch. Friday afternoon? Testing out an AI tool to help curators search archive materials faster.

That’s the reality of life as a Backend Polyglot Integration Developer here. No two weeks look the same. The mix of backend software development, systems integration, and cloud infrastructure work means you’ll constantly be learning, solving problems, and collaborating with colleagues from across the organisation.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a technically adaptable polyglot developer to join a nationally respected cultural institution with an ambitious digital vision. You’ll work on varied and meaningful projects; from API-driven integrations to AI experimentation - helping to shape a modern, secure, and scalable technology environment. You’ll operate in a multi-platform environment: Windows is predominant, but production Linux systems are crucial to the role.

Backend Polyglot Integration Developer Key Skills – what we’re looking for

You don’t need to have “Backend Integration Developer” on your CV to be a great fit. If you’ve worked in backend development, software engineering, or API management — and you’re confident developing in more than one modern OO programming languages e.g. PHP, Python etc. and Linux — we’d love to hear from you.

Essential:

• Strong skills in backend development and systems integration.
  
  
• Modern PHP (v8+) experience, ideally including PHP 8.2+ or above.
  
  
• Additional experience Programming in an additional OO programming language e.g. Python, Perl etc.
  
  
• Proficiency in Linux server environments, with Windows server familiarity.
  
  
• Experience developing and managing APIs.
  
  
• AI familiarity personal or professional.
  
  
• Familiarity with MySQL and at least one search platform such as Elasticsearch or SOLR.
  
  
• Knowledge of Git, version control, and CI/CD pipelines.
  
  
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
  
  Useful to have:
  
  
• JavaScript (Node.js) for automation or backend logic.
  
  
• Experience with other OO programming languages.
  
  
• Familiarity with cloud platforms, especially Microsoft Azure.
  
  
• Containerisation tools such as Docker.
  
  
• Automation tools like Ansible.
  
  
• Interest in AI, machine learning, and related technologies.
  
  Backend Polyglot Developer - What you’ll be doing:
  
  As a Backend Polyglot Integration Developer, you’ll work across backend systems, APIs, and digital platforms to deliver seamless integrations, improve performance, and support new digital capabilities. This is a hands-on, varied role where you’ll contribute ideas, explore new technologies, and make a visible impact.
  
  
• Develop, integrate, and maintain APIs across multiple platforms and services.
  
  
• Write and optimise backend code, with a focus on PHP and automation scripts.
  
  
• Support server infrastructure across Linux (production) and Windows (development and other services) environments.
  
  
• Improve deployment workflows, CI/CD pipelines, and automated testing.
  
  
• Contribute to AI-related projects and innovation initiatives.
  
  
• Enhance search functionality and digital content delivery.
  
  
• Collaborate with internal teams to deliver secure, high-performing solutions.
  
  
• Maintain clear technical documentation and troubleshooting guides.
  
  Why join?
  
  
• Work on high-profile, mission-driven projects that reach millions.
  
  
• Be part of preserving and sharing a legacy that spans generations, using technology to connect people with history in new and meaningful ways.
  
  
• Exposure to a wide tech stack, from PHP and Python to AI and cloud tools.
  
  
• Hybrid working pattern with a collaborative, supportive team.
  
  
• Strong focus on professional development and learning.
  
  Salary & Benefits:
  
  
• £50-60,000 (dependent on experience)
  
  
• 25 days annual leave (rising to 30 after 5 years) plus public holidays
  
  
• Exceptional pension contributions (16.7%–24.3%)
  
  
• Free access to partner museum exhibitions
  
  
• Enhanced parental benefits and family-friendly policies
  
  
• Cycle-to-work and season ticket loan schemes
  
  
• Healthcare membership options
  
  Ready to bring your backend and integration skills to an organisation with purpose?
  
  Apply now for a confidential conversation about this unique opportunity.
  
  Please note: Shortlisted candidates will receive the official job description later in the process. It will carry a different job title to the one advertised, but the scope and responsibilities remain exactly as described here