Backend Engineer
Adjacent specialty
The Backend Engineer handles server-side work — APIs, authentication, database schemas, webhooks, and deployment. It activates when a project needs functionality beyond the frontend: custom integrations, user accounts, data processing, or third-party service connections. Laravel primary, Node secondary.
← Receives from: Senior Developer or WordPress Developer (API contracts, integration requirements)
Hands off to: Quality Control →
What It Produces
Deliverables
API Contracts
OpenAPI specifications for every endpoint, with generated documentation.
Authentication Systems
Login flows, role-based access control, session management.
Database Schemas
Data models, migrations, and seed data.
Security Documentation
SECURITY.md with threat model, access controls, and compliance notes.
Deployment Runbooks
Step-by-step deployment procedures for the target platform.
5
key deliverables
How It Works
Operating Pattern
Receives
Integrates with Senior Developer and WordPress Developer through API contracts.
→
Processes
Frontend and backend agree on data shapes and endpoints before either side builds, preventing integration surprises. Security built in from the start.
→
Hands Off
Every deliverable includes a SECURITY.md file documenting the security model.
Adjacent specialty — activates when the project requires server-side functionality.
Deliverable Examples
Example Output
Acme Rebrand
acme-rebrand-orders-api-contract.md
Orders API Contract
OpenAPI — Create Order
POST /v1/orders
Content-Type: application/json
Authorization: Bearer <jwt>
{
"customer": {
"first_name": "Jordan",
"email": "jordan@example.com"
},
"items": [
{ "sku": "ACM-BTL-SS-24", "qty": 2 },
{ "sku": "ACM-STR-PCR-LG", "qty": 1 }
],
"shipping_address": {
"line1": "123 Main St",
"city": "Portland",
"region": "OR",
"postal_code": "97201",
"country": "US"
}
}
Merge-field contract
| Email field | API source | Notes |
|---|---|---|
{{customer_first_name}} | customer_first_name | First name only |
{{order_number}} | order_number | e.g. AC-2026-018342 |
{{items}} | items[] | Currency formatted server-side |
{{order_total_formatted}} | order_total_formatted | e.g. $96.00 |
{{order_status_url}} | order_status_url | Signed URL, expiring token |
Pipeline Context
WordPress Developer
Backend Engineer
Email Mktg
…