PHP Back-end Developer

About McLaing Executive Search: At McLaing, we specialize in connecting top-tier talent with exceptional employers in the dynamic Dutch labor market. With our extensive network and digital industry expertise, we are dedicated to finding the perfect match in the fast changing digital industry. We are experts in finding leaders on C-Level and executive level. Whether you’re looking to fill key positions or build a world-class team, we have the expertise, network, and commitment to make it happen. About our Client: With more than 700 employees across eight terminals in seven key strategic hubs in Europe, our client offers tailored storage solutions for liquid energy and chemicals. The daily focus centers on delivering better solutions, superior service, and peak performance. By combining internal strengths, expertise, and capabilities with those of strategic partners, the organization embraces future opportunities to help deliver cleaner energy and empower society. On behalf of our client, McLaing Executive Search is seeking an accomplished TMS Developer to lead the ongoing engineering, customization, integration, and operational support of customers core Terminal Management System (TMS). About the role: As the digital backbone powering terminal logistics, inventory control, order management, and financial billing, the TMS is critical to business operations. In this role, you will lead backend PHP development while partnering closely with business leaders, product owners, and external vendor partners to build scalable, resilient, and secure application solutions. This position bridges day-to-day software performance with long-term strategic modernization under the company’s IT Business Systems continuous improvement initiatives. Primary Scope of Responsibility Software Engineering & Application Modernization. Architect, write, and maintain robust PHP-based applications and customized modules within the TMS ecosystem, including inventory, order workflows, and billing functions.Execute code reviews, enforce software engineering standards, and champion application refactoring and modernization initiatives.Translate evolving business requirements into high-performing, sustainable technical solutions.Systems Integration & Data EngineeringDesign, construct, and maintain secure APIs and interfaces linking the TMS to enterprise platforms (ERP), Operational Technology (OT) infrastructure, and third-party partner systems.Guarantee accurate, real-time, and dependable data flow across all connected software and hardware environments. Operational Escalation & System Health Provide advanced 2nd and 3rd-line technical support for the global TMS environment, serving as an escalation lead for complex incidents.Conduct root-cause analyses on complex technical issues and implement proactive measures to prevent recurrence.Manage controlled system updates, patch deployments, and scheduled technical maintenance.Participate in a 24/7 on-call rotation to guarantee operational continuity across terminal sites during mission-critical events. Cross-Functional Leadership & Best Practices Collaborate across IT and OT departments to align systems architecture with overall terminal continuity and security standards.Help define and elevate operational best practices, documentation, and development standards across the broader IT organization.Based domestically in the Netherlands, the position demands an European perspective, requiring seamless alignment with clients international terminal networks About you: To fulfil this role we are looking for a candidate who meets as much as possible: Educational Foundation: Academic background in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology, or demonstrable equivalent gained through high-impact technical experience.Software Engineering Experience: 1 to 5 years of progressive, hands-on software development expertise, with core strength in PHP-based technology stacks.Operational Application Lifecycle: Proven history of engineering, deploying, and maintaining mission-critical business applications in live operational settings.Data & Integration Expertise: Deep understanding of relational database management, robust API engineering, and enterprise system integration frameworks.Enterprise & Systems Interfacing: Practical experience interfacing core software with ERP platforms, Operational Technology (OT), and third-party vendor interfaces.Reliability & Delivery Standards: Proficient in version control workflows, structured software testing, and root-cause diagnostics within production environments.Value-Add Knowledge: Prior exposure to Transport Management Systems (TMS), industrial control systems (SCADA, MES, DCS), cloud/Linux environments (Azure), or governance frameworks like ITIL and ISO 27001 is a clear advantage. Core Competencies & Behavioral Profile Analytical Rigor: Combines sharp critical thinking with a practical, solution-driven approach to complex operational challenges.Ownership & Accountability: Takes direct responsibility for deliverables, showing personal initiative from initial scoping through final execution.Pragmatic Execution: Maintains a hands-on work ethic with an unyielding commitment to delivering measurable output.Collaborative Versatility: Performs effectively as an autonomous self-starter while integrating seamlessly across cross-functional technical and business teams.Stakeholder Alignment: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to convey technical concepts clearly to diverse business stakeholders.Operational Agility: Confidently prioritizes high-impact tasks and adapts swiftly within fast-moving operational settings.Crisis Resilience: Demonstrates composure under high-stakes conditions and reacts swiftly during mission-critical operational outages.Continuous Optimization: Instinctively seeks opportunities to refine processes, elevate software standards, and drive ongoing performance improvements. About the offer: You will join a highly motivated, supportive team within a dynamic organization that offers real room for personal growth and ownership. Financials: A highly competitive salary tailored to your experience, plus an attractive bonus incentive.Work-Life Balance: 30 holiday leave days to ensure you stay energized.Benefits: Travel allowance and an excellent corporate pension plan.Growth: Extensive personal development opportunities and exposure to large-scale, international collaborations.Lots of freedom to shape this role.