Job Title: Senior Backend Engineer (C++ / PHP)

Company Name: Lifted, an Upwork Company™

Job Details: RemoteContract

Job Url: https://hiring.cafe/viewjob/7uh3irl8y8ouggvw

Job Description: Posted 1d agoSenior Backend Engineer (C++ / PHP)@ Lifted, an Upwork Company™View All JobsFlorida City, Florida, United StatesRemoteContractResponsibilities:Design backend, Own features, Scale systemsRequirements Summary:Expert-level C++ and PHP backend; strong problem-solving; English proficiency; autonomous, asynchronous work; paid technical challenge.Technical Tools Mentioned:C++, PHP, SQL
Company Description:An enterprise client is hiring an exceptionally strong Backend Engineer with deep expertise in C++ and PHP to join a small, senior, fully remote engineering team. This is a high-trust, high-ownership environment with minimal process, no standups, and no sprint ceremonies.

This role is intentionally designed for engineers who thrive with autonomy, clear ownership, and written communication. You will be highly visible, highly trusted, and expected to operate independently from day one.
As part of our high-vetting process, all shortlisted candidates will complete a paid C++ and PHP technical challenge before moving forward.Job Description:What You’ll Be Responsible For:Designing, building, and maintaining backend systems using C++ and PHP as primary technologiesOwning features and systems end-to-end, from architecture through production deliverySolving complex technical problems independently and proactivelyProviding daily written updates on progress, decisions, and blockersActively participating in technical and product discussions via Slack in a chat-driven environmentCollaborating with a small, senior team in a fully asynchronous operating modelQualifications:Technical Requirements (Non-Negotiable):Expert-level proficiency in both C++ and PHPClear 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 challengeStrong backend systems thinking (performance, reliability, maintainability)SQL experience is a plus, but not requiredCommunication & Collaboration Expectations:Extremely strong English proficiency, including nuance, tact, and professional judgmentComfortable being highly visible and highly active in written discussionsAble to communicate clearly and concisely in a fully asynchronous, Slack-based environmentProactive in surfacing risks, questions, and recommendations without being promptedWork Style & Autonomy:Thrives without traditional management, standups, or sprint structuresStrong self-management, ownership mentality, and bias toward actionAble to operate effectively in a flat, non-hierarchical organizationComfortable making decisions independently and being accountable for outcomesTime 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 alignmentHardware Requirements (Strict):MacBook with Apple Silicon (M1 or newer)Minimum 36GB RAM (64GB+ strongly preferred)Latest version of macOS installed prior to start dateAdditional 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