Junior Level PHP Developer

EESmith; Leicester; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading specialist contractor in interior fit-out is seeking a Junior Level PHP Developer in Leicester. This position focuses on developing and maintaining an in-house software platform. The ideal candidate has experience with the LAMP stack and a passion for solving real-world problems. The role offers a competitive salary of £25,000 to £28,000, along with 32 days holiday and various employee benefits.

Benefits

32 days holiday

Employee Assistance Programme

Cycle to Work Scheme

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of LAMP stack.
• Experience with PHP frameworks, preferably Symfony2.
• Understanding of database-driven applications.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and develop internal system (HUB).
• Investigate and resolve user tickets.
• Collaborate to simplify information sharing.

Skills

LAMP stack knowledge

PHP 7.4 or higher experience

Object-oriented programming

Version control systems (e.g. Git)

Web application security best practices

Passionate about open-source technologies

Tools

GitHub

PHPUnit

YouTrack

PHPStorm

Job description

Overview

EE Smith Contracts Ltd. Is on of the UK’s leading specialist interior fit-out contractors. Privately owned, and operating from our purpose-built headquarters in Leicester, we’ve been setting the industry standard for over 125 years. We are experts in fitting out some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, commercial interiors, and private residences.

Role

Junior Level PHP Developer (ideally 1-2 yrs exp.) – In-House Systems

Salary range: £25,000 to £28,000 per annum

Hours: Monday to Friday, Office based

Closing Date: 3 rd November

Role Commencement: January 2026

Purpose

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Our Bespoke Internal Platform

We’re on the lookout for a proactive and solutions-driven Junior Level PHP Developer to take ownership of our in-house software platform (HUB), ensuring it continues to support and enhance how our teams work across the business.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a developer who thrives on solving real-world problems, streamlining workflows, and working closely with users to deliver impactful improvements — all from our Leicester Head Office

What You’ll Be Doing

• Maintaining and developing our bespoke internal system (HUB).
• Investigating and resolving user tickets — from bug fixes to process improvements.
• Reviewing and updating existing code, including testing prior to go-live.
• Collaborating with multiple departments to simplify how information is shared and used.
• Designing user-friendly interfaces and portals that improve daily operations and brand perception.
• Writing efficient scripts to automate manual processes and increase productivity.
• Attending monthly progress meetings with management to align on goals.
• Supporting the development of the IT function as a key driver of business performance.
• Ensuring compliance with relevant Quality, Environmental, and Health & Safety standards (ISO 9001, 14001, H&S regulations).

Our ideal candidate will have

• Strong knowledge of LAMP stack (Linux, Apache, MySQL, PHP).
• Experience with PHP 7.4 or higher, preferably with Symfony2 framework.
• Solid grasp of object-oriented programming, database-driven applications, and version control systems (e.g. Git).
• Familiarity with tools like GitHub, PHPUnit, YouTrack, and PHPStorm.
• Understanding of web application security best practices.
• Experience in testing and debugging.
• Passionate about open-source technologies and continuous learning.

What You’ll Get in Return

• Salary range of £25,000 – £28,000 per annum based on experience
• 32 days holiday including Bank Holidays (increases with service)
• Employee Assistance Programme, Financial Management Services, Cycle to Work Scheme and other employee benefits.
• Supportive working environment and the chance to shape your own function.

Please Note

• We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion or belief, or race. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
• ONLY CANDIDATES WITH THE RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK WILL BE CONSIDERED
• WE DO NOT CONSENT TO BEING CONTACTED BY RECRUITMENT AGENCIES

Ready to Apply?

If you’re passionate about building tools that make work smarter, not harder — we’d love to hear from you. Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter telling us why you’re the right fit.

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