PHP Software Engineer (Wordpress)

What You’ll Do

You will drive our success in web development by building and enhancing web applications that support our nationwide platform for athlete engagement. Leveraging your skills in PHP and WordPress, you will play a critical role in shaping our custom-built software solutions that power all facets of our business. Your responsibilities will include developing innovative features, optimizing application performance, and ensuring our content and event platforms continue to serve over 400,000 athletes across the country. Through a blend of new project builds and improvements to existing systems, you’ll directly contribute to an elevated user experience and streamlined operations. 

Who We Are

Prep Network is a sports company that connects high school athletes with college coaches. Through our nine brands, we publish over 4,000 articles each month and actively scout talented athletes across the U.S.  We aim to discover and promote promising prospects who aspire to play at the collegiate level. 

In addition to our content, Prep Network is the top event operator in the U.S., hosting 100+ tournaments annually.  We offer a combination of top-tier competitions and extensive media exposure for attending teams.  Our 250+ showcases each year provide a platform for over 10,000+ prospects to compete in front of colleges, scouts, and media outlets. 

We’re pumped to have been named one of the "Best Places to Work" by Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal three years running, and to land a spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. Prep Network isn’t your average sports company—we’re all about helping student-athletes succeed and creating an awesome workplace.

Core Responsibilities

• Maintain and develop Prep Network WordPress applications
• Assist with any customer or internal issues that arise on Prep Network content websites
• Collaborate with the Digital and Subscriber Journey teams to build new functionality
• Complete sprint tasks on time while maintaining code quality

Must-Haves in a Candidate

• 3+ years of experience with PHP (WordPress and/or Laravel)
• Strong understanding of object-oriented programming concepts and best practices
• Experience building and maintaining custom-built WordPress themes and plugins
• Proficiency in JavaScript and jQuery for front-end development, including AJAX for dynamic content loading
• Working-level knowledge of Git (and Github)
• Strong knowledge of MySQL database management and optimization techniques for WordPress
• Experience with third-party API integrations into WordPress
• Familiarity with the Advanced Custom Fields WordPress plugin
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively, including engaging in code reviews to ensure quality

Nice-to-Haves in a Candidate

• Experience with the frontend tools Tailwind CSS & Alpine JS
• Familiarity with the Sage WordPress theme
• Knowledge of WordPress multisite installations
• Understanding of the WordPress REST API
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines
• Experience deploying and managing WordPress sites in high-performance hosting environments
• Knowledge of ADA compliance and SEO best practices to enhance website accessibility and search engine visibility

Benefits and Perks
At Prep Network, we take pride in our culture and commitment to creating an exceptional workplace environment. Here are some of the benefits and perks you can expect when you join our team:

• Vibrant Culture. Prep Network has been recognized as one of the Best Places to Work three years running, thanks to our vibrant and inclusive culture. We're passionate about bringing on board curious, self-motivated individuals who work hard and genuinely enjoy their work.
• Autonomy. We trust our team members to excel in their roles. Rather than micromanaging, we provide you with the tools and processes needed for success, allowing you the freedom to bring your role to life and make a meaningful impact.
• Professional Growth. We prioritize your professional development. We actively support and encourage you to invest in your growth, both professionally and personally. 
• Comprehensive Benefits. Prep Network offers a range of benefits designed to support your overall well-being. These include comprehensive health benefits, a 401k plan with Safe Harbor matching, long-term disability coverage, Basic Life, and a flexible work schedule that promotes work-life balance.
• Competitive Compensation.  The base salary for this position ranges from $70,000 to $80,000.

Join us at Prep Network and be part of a dynamic team that values your individuality, fosters personal growth, and offers a diverse range of benefits to enhance your professional and personal life. Discover a workplace where you can thrive, learn, and make a meaningful impact on our journey together.