Swapop is seeking a Backend Developer to design, build, and scale our backend infrastructure using PHP and Laravel. The ideal candidate will have experience with MySQL and a startup mindset.
Key Highlights
Technical Skills Required
Benefits & Perks
Job Description
📍 Remote | Equity-Based | Flexible Hours
Backend Developer (PHP / Laravel / MySQL)
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Are you a backend developer who enjoys building scalable systems from scratch, collaborating closely with mobile developers, and shaping the technical foundation of an early-stage product?
Swapop — an AI-powered marketplace for Gen Z to swap, buy, and trade items — is looking for a Backend Developer to help design, build, and scale our backend infrastructure while working hand-in-hand with our Flutter mobile developers.
This is an equity-based founding team opportunity, with the potential to transition into a paid senior engineering role post-funding.
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Key Responsibilities
Backend Development & Architecture
• Design and build RESTful APIs using PHP (Laravel) to support the Swapop mobile application.
• Develop and manage scalable MySQL database schemas and relationships.
• Implement authentication, authorization, and user management systems.
• Build core marketplace logic (listings, swaps, bids, matching, notifications).
• Ensure backend performance, security, and reliability.
• Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code.
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Requirements
• Strong experience with PHP and Laravel framework.
• Solid knowledge of MySQL and relational database design.
• Experience building and consuming REST APIs.
• Understanding of authentication, security best practices, and API performance.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with mobile (Flutter) developers.
• Startup mindset — comfortable building, iterating, and improving systems quickly.
• Ability to commit 10–15 hours per week in an early-stage environment.
Nice to Have
• Experience with cloud hosting (AWS, DigitalOcean, or similar).
• Familiarity with real-time features (notifications, messaging).
• Previous experience in marketplaces, fintech, or trading platforms.
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What You’ll Gain
• Founding team role with meaningful equity in a fast-growing startup.
• The opportunity to architect the backend foundation of a new marketplace.
• Hands-on collaboration with a multidisciplinary product and mobile team.
• A clear pathway to evolve into Lead Backend Engineer / CTO-track role after funding.
• Real ownership, autonomy, and impact from day one.
Additional Info
• 100% Remote — work from anywhere.
• Flexible hours — async-friendly collaboration.
• Equity-based (no salary until funding).
• Ideal for developers who want to build from zero, shape architecture, and grow with the product.