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Php Backend Developer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Senior WordPress Backend Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$115K - $135K/yr

Teal Media is looking for a Senior WordPress Backend Developer who's a thoughtful problem-solver ... Strong proficiency in PHP and modern backend development practices, including AI-based workflows.

... perform back-end work (i.e., MySQL, PHP) and ecommerce • Maintain and develop the company ... programming languages to perform back-end work (i.e., MySQL, PHP) and ecommerce • Strong ...

... PHP skills to join their dynamic team. As a Fullstack Developer, you will be responsible for developing and maintaining both front-end and back-end components of our web applications. You will ...

Front End Developer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Our Front-End Developers architect and develop websites and web applications using HTML, CSS, and ... Knowledge of back-end languages such as .NET and/or PHP * Enjoys working with clients or ...

Full Stack Developer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$35 - $65/hr

As a Full Stack Developer, you will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including ... Hands-on experience with back-end technologies such as Node.js, Java, Python, or PHP . * Experience ...

Programs web pages working with databases and programming languages to perform back-end work (i.e., MySQL, PHP) and ecommerce * Strong communications skills with both technical and non-technical ...

Programs web pages working with databases and programming languages to perform back-end work (i.e., MySQL, PHP) and ecommerce * Strong communications skills with both technical and non-technical ...

Integrations Developer

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$53 - $70.25/hr

This senior development role requires an exceptionally strong focus on backend development, system ... PHP . · Extensive experience interacting with and building robust web APIs (REST/SOAP). · Strong ...

Job Requirements Senior Full-Stack Developer Location: Elmhurst, IL Reports To: Director of ... You will touch both modern Next.js + TypeScript code and, at times, legacy backend workflows (PHP ...

Job Requirements Senior Full-Stack Developer Location: Elmhurst, IL Reports To: Director of ... You will touch both modern Next.js + TypeScript code and, at times, legacy backend workflows (PHP ...

... back-end coding languages, development frameworks and third-party libraries. - Build, test and ... Java, C++, PHP, Python, MySQL, SQL, Linux, SDLC, Software Developer, Programming, Programmer ...

This senior development role requires an exceptionally strong focus on backend development, system ... PHP. * Extensive experience interacting with and building robust web APIs (REST/SOAP). * Strong ...

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Php Backend Developer information

See Illinois salary details

$36.8K

$98.8K

$144.4K

How much do php backend developer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for php backend developer in Illinois is $98,845.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,400.00 and $111,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is PHP backend developer in demand?

PHP backend developers are still in demand due to the widespread use of PHP in web development and content management systems like WordPress. However, demand is gradually shifting towards developers skilled in modern frameworks and languages such as JavaScript, Python, and Node.js, making versatility and knowledge of popular tools important for job prospects.

What is a php backend developer?

A PHP Backend Developer is responsible for building and maintaining the server-side logic of web applications using PHP. They develop databases, APIs, and application logic to ensure seamless communication between the front-end and the server. Their role often involves optimizing performance, securing data, and troubleshooting server-side issues. They work closely with front-end developers, designers, and other stakeholders to create functional and scalable web applications.

What are some typical challenges faced by php backend developers in their daily work?

Php Backend Developers often encounter challenges such as optimizing application performance, maintaining code quality within large, evolving codebases, and ensuring backward compatibility when updating legacy systems. They must also regularly collaborate with frontend developers and QA teams to troubleshoot issues and deliver seamless user experiences. Additionally, keeping up with the latest PHP features and security best practices is essential to remain effective and deliver secure, scalable solutions. Successfully navigating these challenges can lead to greater responsibilities, including senior development and leadership roles.

Is PHP outdated in 2026?

As a PHP backend developer, PHP remains a widely used server-side language with ongoing updates and a large community. While newer technologies like Node.js and Python are gaining popularity, PHP continues to power many websites and applications, making it a relevant skill in 2026 for backend development roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a php backend developer?

To thrive as a Php Backend Developer, you need strong proficiency in PHP programming, deep understanding of backend frameworks, and experience with databases such as MySQL or PostgreSQL, often supported by a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with tools like Composer, version control systems (e.g., Git), and sometimes certifications like Zend Certified PHP Engineer are highly beneficial. Problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this position. Together, these skills ensure that backend systems are robust, maintainable, and efficiently integrated with frontend applications and teams.

Is PHP still good for backend development?

PHP remains a widely used language for backend development, powering popular platforms like WordPress and Facebook. It offers a large ecosystem, extensive libraries, and frameworks such as Laravel, making it suitable for building scalable web applications. PHP developers should stay updated with modern practices and version updates to remain competitive.
What are the most commonly searched types of Php Backend Developer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Php Backend Developer jobs in Illinois are:
What job categories do people searching Php Backend Developer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Php Backend Developer jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Php Backend Developer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,845 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Senior WordPress Backend Developer

Teal Media

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$115K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Who We Are

Teal Media is a full-service creative and design agency with a conscience. We believe purposeful design can transform organizations, inspire action, and enable progress. Our clients and nonprofit partners are committed to creating positive social change—and we pour every ounce of our passion and skill into helping them succeed.

We offer a variety of strategic, creative, and technical services, including brand strategy, web design and development, and creative support.

We're a woman-founded and woman-led firm with a team that reflects a broad range of lived experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives. At Teal, we value our people above all else and choose to work with partners and clients who share those values.

No recruiters, please.

Teal Media is looking for a Senior WordPress Backend Developer who's a thoughtful problem-solver and hands-on builder. This role is a client-facing technical lead who partners with designers, frontend developers, and strategists to architect, build, and evolve WordPress and other platforms for our clients. You bring years or decades of backend expertise, take ownership of technical decisions, and enjoy translating complex client needs into reliable, scalable solutions. You're confident when leading technical work, adaptable as projects evolve, and motivated by supporting mission-driven organizations.

What success looks like in this role
  • You translate ambiguous client needs into clear, actionable technical approaches.
  • You've worked at an agency or have other experience juggling multiple competing priorities.
  • You build trust with clients through clarity, responsiveness, and sound judgment.
  • You balance ideal technical solutions with real-world constraints (budget, timeline, team capacity).
  • You take ownership of outcomes, not just assigned tasks.
What You'll DoBuild & Deliver
  • Lead the architecture and development of custom web projects, primarily using open-source tools, with a strong focus on WordPress backend development (themes, plugins, and systems integrations).
  • Act as the lead developer on both new builds and ongoing support work, owning technical decisions and translating complex client needs into thoughtful, scalable solutions.
  • Take pride in building long-term, maintainable solutions.
  • Identify risks early and propose alternative approaches when needed.
Collaborate with Purpose
  • Act as a technical lead in client conversations, clearly explaining complex concepts in accessible terms.
  • Present tradeoffs and recommendations with confidence, helping clients make informed decisions.
  • Navigate ambiguity and challenging situations with professionalism and sound judgment.
Lead & Support the Team
  • Mentor developers across the team through thoughtful feedback, pairing, and code reviews.
  • Participate in hiring and evaluation of technical talent as needed.
  • Model strong communication, collaboration, and accountability within project teams.
Qualifications:
  • 10+ years of experience building with WordPress and other PHP tools, including deep expertise in custom themes, plugins, and WordPress architecture
  • Strong proficiency in PHP and modern backend development practices, including AI-based workflows.
  • Experience working in an agency or consulting environment, balancing multiple projects and priorities.
Location

Ideal Location: Remote (US)

Salary

The salary range for this role is $115,000 - $135,000, commensurate with experience and location.

At Teal, we use transparent salary bands to promote equity and clarity across our team. Final offers are based on a candidate's skills, experience, and demonstrated expertise within the scope of this role.

In addition, Teal offers a comprehensive benefits package, generous PTO, and a flexible, people-first workplace that supports balance and professional growth.

Application Instructions

Important: This position requires deep experience with WordPress backend development. In your cover letter, please describe your experience architecting and developing custom WordPress solutions, including themes, plugins, integrations, and content/editorial workflows. We'd also love to hear about a project you're especially proud of, your specific contributions to it, and how you approached key technical or client challenges along the way.

No recruiters, please.

Equal Opportunity Statement

If your experience doesn't exactly match the qualifications listed, but you believe you'd thrive in this role, we'd love to hear from you. Please apply and tell us why you're the right person for the job.

We strongly encourage individuals from historically marginalized communities to apply—including Black and Indigenous people, people of color, immigrants, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, neurodiverse individuals, and those who have been system-impacted.

Teal Media is an equal opportunity employer that values a diverse workforce and inclusive culture. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status, disability, and veteran status. We are not offering US visa sponsorship at this time.