PHP Developer

About the Role

This role supports a critical REDCap research data capture platform hosted on Amazon Web Services for Our Client. The PHP Developer will work in a collaborative, hybrid environment, partnering with business stakeholders, infrastructure engineers, and external REDCap support teams. You will ensure the application remains secure, reliable, and highly available while delivering timely technical assistance to end‑users. Your contributions will directly impact the efficiency of data collection and analysis for statewide research initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain and troubleshoot the REDCap application, addressing performance issues and bugs promptly.
• Implement version upgrades and patches to keep the platform current and secure.
• Provide day‑to‑day user support, including training, issue resolution, and documentation.
• Coordinate with vendors and the Vanderbilt University REDCap support team to resolve third‑party issues.
• Design, develop, and deploy PHP micro‑services that extend REDCap functionality.
• Manage MySQL databases, optimizing queries, performing backups, and ensuring data integrity.
• Collaborate with AWS administrators to configure and monitor cloud resources (EC2, RDS, S3, CloudWatch).
• Integrate REDCap with other internal systems using RESTful APIs and secure data exchange protocols.
• Participate in security reviews and implement best practices to protect sensitive research data.
• Document system architecture, standard operating procedures, and support processes for knowledge sharing.

Required Skills & Experience

• 5+ years of professional experience developing web applications with PHP, including micro‑service architectures.
• Strong proficiency in MySQL database design, optimization, and administration.
• Hands‑on experience managing applications on AWS (EC2, RDS, S3, IAM, CloudWatch).
• Familiarity with REDCap installation, configuration, and support workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and provide clear user guidance.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a track record of working across cross‑functional teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Preferred certifications: AWS Certified Solutions Architect or similar cloud credential.

Tools & Technologies

• Programming Language: PHP (including modern frameworks and micro‑service patterns).
• Database: MySQL (including stored procedures, indexing, and performance tuning).
• Cloud Platform: Amazon Web Services – EC2, RDS, S3, IAM, CloudWatch, VPC.
• Application: REDCap (research data capture system).
• Version Control: Git (branching, pull requests, code reviews).
• Web Servers: Apache or Nginx.
• Containerization (optional but beneficial): Docker.
• Automation/CI‑CD tools: Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or similar.
• Operating Systems: Linux (Ubuntu/CentOS) for server management.

Work Schedule & Duration

• Contract length: Approximately 1 year (10/12/26 – 09/30/27) with potential extension based on business needs.
• Hybrid work model: 2 days onsite per week (Wednesday and Thursday) at the Lansing office; remaining days remote.
• Candidate must reside within 75 miles of Lansing, Michigan.

Interview Process

The interview process consists of two stages. The first round is a virtual interview focused on technical expertise and problem‑solving abilities. The second round is an in‑person interview that evaluates both technical depth and soft‑skill competencies, including communication and leadership. Panels will include the hiring manager, a business relationship manager, and additional team members.

Position Details

• Employment Type: Contract
• Duration: Approximately 12 months (with potential for extension)
• Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States