Middle+ Backend PHP/Wordpress Developer with AI Tools - Санкт-Петербург

We are looking for a PHP developer who can leverage AI-powered development tools for automation, code optimization, and task acceleration. We consider candidates only with hands-on experience using at least three AI coding services: Copilot, Claude, and Cursor.

Responsibilities:

Develop and refine a WordPress-based Marketplace-SaaS project (complex logic, 4 user roles, 30+ interdependent calculators).
Build large-scale and complex custom WordPress plugins from scratch.
Ensure WordPress security, including admin protection (URL change, 2FA, IP restriction), database security (prefix changes, encryption, access rights), file/server security (permissions, config file protection), and attack prevention (WAF, antivirus, SQL injection & XSS protection). Experience with security monitoring plugins (Wordfence, iThemes Security) is required.
Mandatory use of AI tools for accelerated development:
Cursor AI (Required)
Claude AI (Required)
Microsoft Visual Studio Code + Copilot AI (As needed)
Work with Git, commit code daily, merge branches, and maintain technical documentation in Git + Word (use DeepSeek or GPT for assistance).
Design database architecture for complex, data-intensive projects.
Integrate or develop custom APIs, including documentation, usage rules, and request limits for external developers.
Requirements:

3-4+ years of PHP backend experience.
Basic knowledge of backend frameworks like Yii2 or Laravel.
Strong experience with WordPress CMS, including hooks, APIs, plugins, and themes.
2+ years of frontend experience in WordPress projects.
1+ year of React.js, NextJS, GraphQL experience for frontend modifications.
Experience using AI tools for coding, testing, and optimization (VS Code, Cursor, Claude AI).
Proficiency in Git, MySQL, REST API, Termius (SSH), PhpStorm.
Basic knowledge of Golang + Gin framework.
Strong problem-solving skills, ability to meet deadlines and write clean, scalable code following CLEAN CODE principles.
What We Offer:

Flexible schedule & remote work (team operates across 4 time zones).
Exciting projects with the opportunity to leverage modern AI tools.
Career growth opportunities, including event sponsorships & tech conferences.
Involvement in large-scale projects for major Arab enterprises and Big Four consulting firms (after 3 successful quarters, with a contracted rate increase above market levels).
Relocation opportunities to the EU, UAE, or USA for top-performing team members after 6 months.
Starting salary: $2,500 USD (trial period, subject to performance-based increase).
After the probation period, salary increases to $3,500–$4,700 USD based on timely delivery and quality of completed modules.
Official employment (NDA + Contract via a Polish company).
Who We’re NOT Looking For:

Passive employees who just «sit on a salary» without taking responsibility.
Developers who are unwilling to meet deadlines or ensure the quality of their modules.
Those not interested in leveraging AI technologies for coding efficiency.
Developers who don’t self-learn or fail to separate learning time from execution time.
? We are building a global-scale project in commerce and startups. If you’re ready to innovate, send us your resume & best development cases. Thank you for your time!