Senior PHP Developer (Cybersecurity tools) at adtech

Mediatech   Mediatech is one of the fastest-growing digital publishing houses, reaching over 25 million people every month across Cybernews, Wellness Pulse, InvestorsObserver, and our wider network. We deliver trusted, independently researched insights across tech, cybersecurity, health, and finance. Our investigations have exposed major security issues at NASA, WhatsApp, ChatGPT, PayPal, LinkedIn, and the Red Cross, and uncovered the largest-ever password leak (RockYou2024). We’re a team driven by curiosity, impact, and fast growth — and we’re looking for people who want to build with us.   Team   This is a strategic role focused on early adoption of new tools, validating new ideas, and implementing proof-of-concept solutions. The work involves significant analysis and risk assessment, acting as the main person to explore and prove out new directions before wider adoption.   You   We are looking for a skilled senior backend developer (Laravel, Symfony, Node.js) with strong systems design skills and a strategic mindset. Early adopter and validator of new tools and ideas, responsible for building POC solutions and developing AI-powered applications. The role involves substantial analysis, risk evaluation, and cross-functional collaboration. WHAT YOU’LL DO • Develop and maintain backend applications using Laravel, Symfony, and Node.js, integrating APIs and front-end technologies for internal use • Act as an early adopter of new tools and technologies, validating ideas and building proof-of-concept solutions • Design and develop solutions leveraging AI, requiring strong systems design knowledge • Perform analysis and risk assessment on new tools, approaches, and technical directions • Support the cybersecurity research team by building and optimizing automation and investigation tools • Collaborate with security researchers to enhance internal tools and analyze cybersecurity research data • Optimize backend performance, ensure clean/secure code, and contribute to system security improvements • Stay up to date with PHP and Node.js best practices, AI developments, and emerging cybersecurity trends WHAT WE EXPECT • Strong experience with PHP 8 (Laravel and Symfony), Node.js, SQL, and RESTful APIs • Solid systems design knowledge, with ability to architect AI-powered solutions • Proven experience with AI-driven development (using AI tools and assistants in day-to-day coding workflows) • Experience validating new tools and building proof-of-concept implementations • Strong analytical skills and ability to assess technical risk • Experience working with SQL and collaboration with Big Data teams • Familiarity with security principles and best practices in web development • Strong problem-solving skills, ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment • Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work with security experts and cross-functional team NICE TO HAVE • Experience with React.js or similar frontend frameworks • Hands-on experience building AI/ML-powered applications WHAT YOU GET • Health & Well-being – Private health insurance with mental health coverage (including psychotherapy sessions), in-house physiotherapy, and access to premium wellness apps and fitness resources. • Time to Recharge – Paid sick days and extra vacation days that grow the longer you’re with us. • Continuous Growth – Deep focus on individual progress, backed by the 70/20/10 development model and a variety of L&D initiatives that help boost performance all year round. You’ll have a learning budget for courses, conferences, books, and subscriptions — plus regular knowledge-sharing sessions. • Recognition & Support – Work anniversaries, celebrations for personal milestones such as birthdays, weddings, welcoming new family members, and more. • Community & Connection – Quarterly events to share knowledge, strengthen alignment, and foster collaboration across teams — plus company workations, wellness challenges, marathons, and other initiatives that bring people together in meaningful ways. • Workspace & Comfort – Pet-friendly, centrally located offices designed for collaboration and focus, with snacks and spaces to connect or recharge. • Flexibility – A hybrid work model built on trust and autonomy, with in-person moments that matter. We care about our team as much as our content. That’s why we focus on real benefits — the kind that help you grow, stay healthy, and feel supported both at work and beyond. The future of media is now — be part of it. At Mediatech, your ideas shape what’s next. Grow your skills, work with great people, and make something that matters. GROSS SALARY • 4400 – 7000 EUR Gross/month. Keep in mind that we are open to discuss a different salary based on your skills and competencies.