WordPress Backend Developer (Expert Level)

About the Project

We are building a custom CRM ecosystem using WordPress as a secure system of record and GoHighLevel (GHL) as the engagement and automation layer. This is not a page-builder or template-based WordPress project.

The platform includes:

Role-based portals (Client, Preparer, Manager, Admin)

Secure document uploads and permissions

Intake workflows and notifications

Custom data models and audit logging

Webhook/API integrations with GoHighLevel

We’re looking for an expert-level WordPress Backend Developer who can own the backend build and also assist with related technical tasks as the system evolves.

Role Overview

As our WordPress Backend Developer, you will be responsible for architecting and building the backend systems that power our CRM. You’ll work closely with the project lead and GoHighLevel specialist to ensure the platform is scalable, secure, and logically sound.

This role is ideal for someone who:

Thinks in systems, not just pages

Writes clean, maintainable code

Is comfortable wearing multiple technical hats when needed

Core Responsibilities

Design and build custom WordPress plugins (not themes or page builders)

Create and manage Custom Post Types (CPTs) and custom database tables

Implement role-based access control and permission logic

Build secure document upload and storage workflows

Develop notification systems (intake submitted, docs uploaded, status changes)

Create REST API endpoints and webhooks to integrate with GoHighLevel

Ensure data integrity, audit logging, and performance optimization

Troubleshoot and resolve backend issues as they arise

Collaborate with internal tea ---------- mbers and document technical decisions

Required Skills & Experience (Expert Level)

5+ years of professional WordPress backend development

Strong proficiency in PHP

Solid experience with WordPress REST API

Experience building custom plugins from scratch

Strong understanding of:

WordPress roles, capabilities, and permissions

Custom Post Types and post meta

Custom database tables and optimized queries

Experience with AJAX / JavaScript for backend interactions

Knowledge of webhooks and API integrations

Strong security awareness (authentication, authorization, file access control)

Comfortable working independently and meeting deadlines

Tools & Technologies

Must be comfortable working with:

WordPress (latest stable versions)

PHP

JavaScript (AJAX)

MySQL

Gravity Forms or WPForms

Git / version control

Preferred / Bonus:

AWS S3 or S3-compatible storage (Wasabi, Backblaze)

JWT or token-based authentication

GoHighLevel API or webhook experience

Linux-based hosting environments

Additional Tasks You May Support (As Needed)

Depending on project phase, you may also:

Assist with system architecture decisions

Help refine intake workflows and data models

Support QA/debugging and performance testing

Help document SOPs for VAs and future developers

Provide input on automation logic and data flow between systems

(You will not be expected to do everything alone—but flexibility is important.)

What This Role Is NOT

Not a theme customization role

Not a page-builder or Elementor-focused role

Not a beginner or junior position

This is a backend engineering role for someone comfortable building real systems.

Why Work With Us

Work on a real, custom CRM build (not cookie-cutter client sites)

Remote and flexible work environment

Clear scope and strong project leadership

Opportunity for long-term collaboration as the platform scales

Ability to influence architecture and technical direction

To Apply

Please include:

A brief summary of your WordPress backend experience

Examples of custom plugins or backend systems you’ve built

Your availability (hours per week)

Your hourly or project-based rate