Overview

Substrakt is a UK-based company with global impact. We help arts and cultural organisations create exceptional digital experiences. We are looking for a Backend Engineer to help us deliver outstanding products and services. Substrakt is an equal opportunities employer and we actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and abilities.

Responsibilities

• Create exceptional backend solutions: Work on a range of projects across our client base including new builds, updates to existing websites, API integrations, infrastructure configurations, and other server-side tasks. You\'ll work with modern technologies such as PHP, WordPress, MySQL, SQL, Python, Wagtail, Heroku and AWS (S3, CloudFront, RDS) – always with performance, security, and scalability in mind
• Ensure quality and performance: Write clean, efficient, and secure code following best practices. Test thoroughly, debug issues, and optimise performance to ensure reliable and seamless user experiences. Contribute to code reviews and help maintain high technical standards
• Collaborate and contribute: Work closely with frontend engineers, designers, and client-facing roles to ensure smooth delivery. Communicate with clients when needed to explain technical decisions, and support Producers and Support & Solutions Managers in scoping and technical planning
• Own your work: Take responsibility for the technical quality of your solutions, contribute to internal best practices, and help shape the future of our backend engineering processes. Participate in solution reviews, conduct code reviews, maintain technical documentation, and support continuous improvement

What you\'ll bring (Qualifications)

• Strong experience in backend development using modern frameworks and tools (e.g., PHP, Python, WordPress, Wagtail, Django)
• Familiarity with relational databases (MySQL) and cloud infrastructure (Heroku, AWS, Cloudflare)
• Understanding of performance optimisation, secure coding practices, and scalable system design
• Enthusiasm for working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
• A friendly and helpful approach to communicating directly with clients
• Initiative, problem-solving mindset, and a drive to deliver high-quality work
• Openness to learn, share knowledge, and support others

Benefits

• We operate a flexible, hybrid working model that supports autonomy and work-life balance.
• Enhanced time-off policies with 25 days of vacation plus bank holidays and a birthday off.
• NHS cashback scheme to support healthcare costs and a monthly wellbeing allowance of £50.
• 6 days per year for professional development, with a £500 budget.
• Internal communication and connection through weekly mailers, regular meetings, and bi-annual team gatherings to museums, art galleries and theatres.
• Emphasis on building the right team structure and workflows so everyone knows their responsibilities and can focus on their best work.
• Opportunity to participate in steering groups influencing Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, Internal Culture, Accessibility, AI, and Sustainability.

Details

• Base pay range: £40,000 - £50,000
• Location: UK-based, remote role (work from anywhere in the UK)
• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Other
• Industries: IT Services and IT Consulting