PHP
PHP is one of the most popular programming languages used to create websites and web applications. Think of it as the engine that powers many websites behind the scenes - including major platforms like Facebook and WordPress. Unlike some programming languages that run on a user's computer, PHP runs on web servers, making it especially good for websites that need to handle lots of users and store information in databases. When you see "PHP Developer" in job descriptions, it means someone who can write code that makes websites work - from simple contact forms to complex online shopping systems.
Examples in Resumes
Developed customer portal using PHP and MySQL database
Created custom PHP scripts to automate data processing tasks
Built and maintained multiple PHP-based websites for clients
Improved existing PHP applications for better performance
Typical job title: "PHP Developers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find PHP Developers
Online Communities
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you ensure a PHP application is secure and performs well with many users?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover protecting against common web attacks, efficient database usage, and handling many users at once. They should mention security practices and ways to make the application run faster.
Q: How do you keep PHP code organized in large projects?
Expected Answer: Look for answers about breaking code into smaller, manageable pieces, using modern coding standards, and implementing design patterns that make code easier to maintain and test.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you work with databases in PHP?
Expected Answer: They should explain how to safely connect to databases, handle user input securely, and write efficient database queries. They should mention preventing common database-related security issues.
Q: Explain how you handle user login and security in PHP applications.
Expected Answer: Look for knowledge about secure password storage, session management, and protecting against common web security threats.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between GET and POST in PHP?
Expected Answer: Should explain that these are two ways to send data through websites - GET for requesting information, POST for submitting forms and sending sensitive data.
Q: How do you include one PHP file in another?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic file organization and how to combine multiple PHP files to create a working application.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic website creation with PHP
- Simple database operations
- HTML and CSS knowledge
- Form handling and validation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Building secure web applications
- Database design and optimization
- API development
- Working with PHP frameworks
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex application architecture
- Performance optimization
- Security implementation
- Team leadership and mentoring
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic security practices
- Unfamiliarity with version control (like Git)
- No experience with databases
- Poor understanding of web basics (HTML, CSS)
- No experience with modern PHP practices
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
The Ultimate Guide to Hiring PHP Developers in 2024: Beyond the Technical Checklist
Hiring Java Developers in 2024
Forget Coding—Can You Communicate? Why Soft Skills are the New Hard Skills
