Backend Developer Needed: Ongoing Partnership with a Growing Digital Agency

We're a Toronto-based digital agency that builds websites and digital solutions for local businesses across Ontario. We're expanding our service offerings and looking for a skilled backend developer to join us as a long-term collaborator on our advanced website projects. This is not a one-off gig. We're looking for someone we can build a relationship with, a developer who becomes a trusted part of how we deliver for our clients. --- WHAT YOU'LL BE WORKING ON Our advanced website projects go beyond informational sites. These are fully functional platforms that require real backend architecture. Depending on the project, work will include: • Payment processing integration (Stripe, PayPal, or client-preferred processors) • User authentication systems: registration, login, session management, password recovery • Database design and management. Structuring and securing customer data, orders, and records • Admin panels: internal dashboards for clients to manage their own content, orders, or users • Shipping and order management workflows • Third-party API and CRM integrations • General backend logic supporting frontend builds Frontend work is handled separately. Your focus is the backend and any necessary integrations. --- WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR • Proven experience building secure, scalable backend systems • Strong command of at least one backend stack (Node.js, Python/Django, PHP/Laravel, or similar) • Experience with relational and/or non-relational databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB) • Solid understanding of REST APIs and third-party integrations • Experience with Stripe or a similar payment gateway • Security-conscious: you understand how to handle user data properly • Reliable and communicative. We need someone who gives updates proactively and hits deadlines • Comfortable working within a defined scope and collaborating with a non-technical project lead --- TO APPLY Please include: • Your portfolio or examples of relevant backend projects • A brief note on your experience with payment systems and user authentication • Your typical availability and preferred stack Strong preference for developers with a track record of repeat clients and long-term engagements on Upwork. If you're looking for consistent work with a team that's organized, growing, and easy to work with, we'd love to hear from you.