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Position: Senior PHP/MySQL Engineer (Claude Code Specialist) - Workflow Automation Platform, Long Term We are a U.S. professional services firm building an internal workflow automation platform to replace a licensed third-party system. This is a long-term engagement, six months or more, for one senior engineer. WHAT EXISTS We have a design skeleton, not a finished system: - A draft MySQL 8 schema (definition/runtime separation, RBAC, audit tables) - A prototype workflow engine validated against a real workflow definition - An importer that normalizes an existing workflow export of ~290 activities and ~5,000 tasks - Skeleton auth, audit logging, and cron scaffolding This has not been run in a live environment and is not a vetted production architecture. We expect you to review it critically and tell us where it is wrong before you build on it. Candidates who accept it uncritically are not what we are looking for. THE STACK - PHP 8.1+, zero third party dependencies (PDO, openssl, password_* only; no Composer, no framework) - MySQL 8 on AWS (Linux) - Server rendered PHP with light vanilla JS. No SPA framework. - Must work across Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge - Cron driven background processing THE CORE PROBLEM A configurable workflow engine. A workflow is a template of approximately 290 activities, each gated by conditions: data comparisons, checklist selections, and task predecessors. The engine evaluates each case's data and instantiates only the activities whose triggers fire. The engine is domain agnostic, so additional workflows are data rather than code. Work routes to queues with load balanced distribution across approximately 20+ users. The system handles deadline ticklers, confirmable dates, and hold and close behavior. AI ARCHITECTURE A two-tier design. You must be comfortable with both: - Local tier: a dedicated Mac server running Ollama, handling high volume, routine, and privacy sensitive work including document assembly from templates, field extraction, classification, and summarization. Zero marginal cost, and data does not leave our infrastructure. - Cloud tier: the Anthropic Claude API for work requiring higher level reasoning. You will build a routing and abstraction layer that selects the tier based on task type and data sensitivity, so either tier can be replaced without touching calling code. Every AI generated document must pass a human approval gate before finalization. This requirement is not negotiable. REPORTING The platform exchanges data in both directions with a third-party financial model maintained outside the system. Egress: stable star schema views over the transactional tables, exposed through a least privilege read only account. Ingress: a validated import path for external financial data, staged into dedicated tables, with schema validation, rejection handling, and a load log. Each data element has a single system of record and neither side overwrites the other's authoritative data. You build the interface and the contract. You do not build dashboards and will not work in the BI tool itself. CLAUDE CODE REQUIREMENT We work in Claude Code. We are not hiring a general PHP developer who occasionally uses AI tooling. We need someone who works this way daily: who writes and maintains [login to view URL] files, plans before executing, uses subagents and MCP servers, and can keep a large codebase coherent across long sessions. Claude Code proficiency will be tested in a paid trial task before any long-term commitment. DELIVERABLES (milestone based, fixed price per milestone) 1. Seed loader: import the normalized workflow definition into the schema 2. UI: queue worklists, case view, task completion with checklist capture 3. Engine completion: predecessor sequencing, confirmable dates, tickler logic 4. Workload distribution across queues 5. Charge and time model: flat fee and hourly capture, time entries, milestone billing events 6. Data interface: star schema views for BI egress (read only), and a validated ingress path for external financial data 7. AI tier: local Ollama integration, Claude API tier, and routing layer 8. Document generation with mandatory human approval gate REQUIREMENTS - 7+ years production PHP, strong MySQL schema and query skills - Demonstrable Claude Code proficiency (see screening questions) - Comfortable working without frameworks and without Composer - Experience designing reporting views or star schemas for BI consumers - Experience with systems carrying audit and compliance requirements - Minimum four hours of daily overlap with U.S. Eastern time - Signed NDA before any code or documentation is shared - Synthetic test data only. No production data access at any point. SCREENING QUESTIONS (answer all; generic applications will not be reviewed) 1. Paste a [login to view URL] file you have written for a real project. Explain two decisions in it. 2. Describe a refactor spanning ten or more files that you did in Claude Code. How did you plan it, and how did you verify the result? 3. Have you built or configured an MCP server? Which one, and for what purpose? 4. Describe a time Claude Code produced code you rejected. How did you catch it? 5. Why would we forbid Composer on this project? Give us your honest assessment, including whether you disagree. 6. Have you deployed a local LLM (Ollama or similar) in a production path? Describe the setup. TO APPLY Begin your response with the word "SEQUENCE" to confirm you have read this posting. Applications opening with a generic pitch will be declined.
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SEQUENCE ⭕⭕ SENIOR PHP WORKFLOW ENGINE ARCHITECT ⭕⭕ Hi there, ✔️ Your project stands out because you're not looking for someone to simply write PHP code you need an engineer who can critically assess an existing architecture, complete a configurable workflow engine, and build a long-term maintainable platform with strong auditability, reporting, and AI orchestration layers. ➡️ Answers to your questions ➥ Defined architecture rules and coding standards, focusing on service-layer separation and controlled database access. ➥ Planned and executed refactors across 10+ files using dependency mapping, incremental changes, and regression testing. ➥ Configured MCP servers for code navigation, documentation access, and AI-assisted development workflows. ➥ Identified and rejected incorrect Claude-generated code through edge-case reviews and test validation. ➥ Understands restrictions around Composer to minimize dependency risks, while evaluating trade-offs pragmatically. ➥ Deployed Ollama-based local LLMs behind API layers for document processing, classification, and internal automation. ♾️ That's all for now. I can commence immediately. I am open to a chat to proceed forward with the next step. Thank You.
$2,000 USD in 15 days
10.0
10.0

With over 18 years in the industry, my team at CnELIndia is eminently suited to take on the challenge of building your workflow automation platform. Our expertise in PHP, MySQL, as well as our Claude Code proficiency aligns seamlessly with your project's core requirements. Paramountly, we understand our role as consultants; to review critically and share insights before executing in order to strategically streamline the system development lifecycle, which is exactly what you need for a long-term engagement like yours. Moreover, our previous experience with server-rendered PHP projects with cron-driven background processing will be immensely beneficial and transferrable to your own. While CnELIndia has a proven mastery over the PHP ecosystem with zero third-party dependencies, we are not solely tech-focused. Our broader understanding of architecting systems that interface with third-party financial models further makes us ideal for this engagement. We don’t just do the job; we create interfaces and contracts that last long after we’re gone. Lastly, CnELIndia’s evident commitment shines through successful delivery within set timelines and budgets maintaining utmost client satisfaction. Choose CnELIndia and let us actualize your vision by turning your design skeleton into a fully functional system for efficacious workflow automation.
$2,005 USD in 25 days
9.0
9.0

Hi, I have 15+ years of experience in PHP, MySQL, workflow automation, audit-driven systems, REST APIs, and custom business applications. I am comfortable working with pure PHP (without frameworks), MySQL 8, cron jobs, RBAC, reporting, and AWS deployments. Your workflow engine architecture is very interesting, and I appreciate that you're looking for someone who will review the existing design critically before extending it. That's exactly how I approach complex systems. I'm happy to sign an NDA, complete the paid trial, and work with milestone-based deliveries. I can provide at least 4 hours of overlap with U.S. Eastern time and am available for a long-term engagement. I look forward to discussing the project further. Best regards, Yasir Shah
$3,500 USD in 45 days
8.6
8.6

Hi, SEQUENCE I reviewed your workflow automation platform request: you need a configurable PHP/MySQL workflow engine that routes tasks across queues, exchanges data with a third-party financial model, and generates documents with a mandatory human approval gate. I’ll extend the existing MySQL 8 schema (RBAC, audit tables, definition/runtime separation) and complete the workflow engine so triggers evaluate conditions and predecessor sequencing before instantiating only eligible activities. I’ll build server-rendered queue worklists, case view, and task completion with checklist capture, then implement cron-driven background processing, star schema egress views, and validated ingress staging with rejection handling and load logging, while integrating Workflow Automation, MySQL, PHP and Claude Code. I focus on clean, testable, audit-friendly code with reliable Linux cron jobs and easy long-session maintenance in Claude Code; Let’s discuss here now.
$150 USD in 7 days
8.4
8.4

With my extensive experience in PHP development and MySQL, I understand your need for a Senior PHP/MySQL Engineer to work on your internal workflow automation platform. I have successfully developed similar systems in the past, focusing on robust database schema design and secure authentication protocols. Could you provide more insights into the expected workflow complexities to better tailor the solution? Regards, Yogesh Kumar
$1,150 USD in 9 days
8.4
8.4

SEQUENCE Hi — Elias here from Miami. I understand you're looking for a seasoned developer to enhance your workflow automation platform using PHP and MySQL, with a focus on Claude Code. The goal seems to be streamlining your business processes efficiently. What usually matters most here is the integration of various components to ensure smooth data flow and maintainability. A common issue in systems like this is managing user roles and permissions effectively while keeping automation logic robust. The tricky part is usually ensuring scalability without complicating the codebase. My approach would involve designing a modular architecture that allows for easier updates and integration with third-party services. Prioritizing stability and future-proofing is essential, so I'd implement thorough testing from the outset. I have worked on similar automation solutions that required integrating multiple APIs and optimizing backend processes for performance. This experience has given me insights into potential pitfalls and the importance of a solid foundation. A few questions to better understand the scope: Q1 – What specific workflows are you looking to automate? Q2 – Are there specific user roles and permissions you want to implement? Q3 – What are your expectations for system scalability? Happy to discuss the details and suggest the best technical approach. Looking forward to hearing from you.
$3,500 USD in 12 days
8.2
8.2

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Senior PHP/MySQL Engineer for Workflow Automation Platform ❇️ Hi My Friend, I hope you're doing well. I've reviewed your project requirements and see you're looking for a Senior PHP/MySQL Engineer to build a workflow automation platform. Look no further; Zohaib is here to help you! My team has successfully completed 50+ similar projects for workflow automation. I will critically review your existing design and enhance it by building the necessary components efficiently. ➡️ Why Me? I can easily do your workflow automation project as I have over 7 years of experience in PHP development and MySQL database design. My skills include creating robust schemas, optimizing queries, and designing user interfaces. Additionally, I have a strong grip on Claude Code practices, ensuring a smooth workflow. ➡️ Let's have a quick chat to discuss your project in detail and let me show you samples of my previous work. I look forward to discussing this with you in chat. ➡️ Skills & Experience: ✅ PHP 8.1+ ✅ MySQL 8 ✅ Workflow Automation ✅ Database Design ✅ Claude Code Proficiency ✅ API Integration ✅ User Interface Design ✅ Cron Job Scheduling ✅ Data Validation ✅ System Auditing ✅ Load Balancing ✅ Document Generation Waiting for your response! Best Regards, Zohaib
$808 USD in 2 days
7.8
7.8

Long-term PHP/MySQL platform builds are our core strength — and your requirement for critical review rather than blind execution is exactly the right approach. On the stack: PHP 8.1+ without third-party frameworks is our preferred mode for internal platforms where framework lock-in creates maintenance overhead. MySQL 8's features (CTEs, window functions, generated columns, check constraints) should be leveraged properly in a workflow engine schema, not worked around. What we'd do first: Review the draft schema for definitional correctness — specifically whether the definition/runtime separation holds under concurrent execution, and whether the RBAC model is fine-grained enough for your activity/task permission model. The importer normalizing 290 activities and 5,000 tasks is a useful stress test — we'd validate it before building on top of the schema. Architectural questions we'd raise immediately: - How does the engine handle long-running tasks and timeout/retry semantics? - Is audit logging append-only or does it allow mutations? - What's the concurrency model for the cron scheduler — advisory locks or process isolation? Claude Code: we use AI-assisted tooling for scaffolding and test generation, not for architecture decisions. Available for 6-month engagement. What is the scope of the first 4-week milestone?
$1,500 USD in 7 days
8.1
8.1

Hi I daily working in USA day time. I am 100% fit for this job. I know cPanel , phpmyadmin , php, mysql, all version and I have 15 years experience in php , mysql, html, css , ajax , api , xml . I have developed many ecommerce and cms sites.. I can maintain , modify , update and add any feature in any existing applications. Please have a look my profile https://www.freelancer.com/u/webmaestro2013.html I will complete your job successfully and start working from now if you will provide this job to me. I am full time freelancer, You will find me here 24 hours online and on phone for any discussion at any time I hope that you will provide this job to me and reply to me as soon as possible for best services and supports. Thanks & Regards Anita
$1,500 USD in 28 days
7.4
7.4

As an experienced senior PHP/MySQL engineer with a deep understanding of workflow automation and extensive experience in developing complex systems like this, I assure you that I am what you are looking for. Over the years, I have successfully executed numerous projects at a scale similar to yours, making me confident in my capacity to critically review your design skeleton and provide the necessary adjustments before building on it. Moreover, my proficiency in PHP 8.1+, MySQL 8 on AWS( Linux), server-rendered PHP with light vanilla JS, all ensuring cross-browser compatibility across Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge would be instrumental in crafting a robust solution for your business needs. Additionally, my knowledge of cron-driven background processing aids in managing deadline ticklers, confirmable dates, and other essential features your platform requires. Being proficient not only in daily PHP use but also in CLAUDE code mark me as an excellent fit as it demonstrates my daily use of AI tooling. As an added benefit, I have ample experience building two-tier designs like yours both locally and on the cloud, using dedicated servers or APIs interchangeably depending upon the task types and data sensitivity. Therefore, I am well-prepared to handle your project with ease, coherence and produce impressive results that will positively impact your workflow regime.
$2,005 USD in 7 days
7.0
7.0

Hello!, I am a Florida-based senior software engineer(frontend, backend, ecommerce, etc) with about 15 years of experience building production PHP/MySQL systems, workflow automations, and AI-assisted tools. I read your description carefully, and this looks like a serious workflow automation platform where reliability, clean logic, and long-term maintainability matter more than quick hacks. I’ve worked on automation-heavy SaaS and internal tools using PHP, MySQL, APIs, and LLM integrations, and I’m comfortable using Claude Code in a practical development workflow. My goal would be to build something stable, scalable, and easy to extend as the platform grows. A good approach here would be: 1. Review the current workflow structure and data model 2. Map the automation rules and edge cases 3. Build the backend logic cleanly in PHP/MySQL 4. Test the full workflow end to end 5. Tighten performance, logging, and error handling Relevant work includes: - A PHP/MySQL operations dashboard for a logistics team - An AI-assisted workflow tool for a small finance company - A custom CRM automation platform for a service business Could you please clarify the following questions to help me better understand the project? 1. What specific workflow actions need to be automated first? 2. Do you already have an existing PHP/MySQL codebase, or is this starting from scratch? 3.
$2,600 USD in 11 days
6.7
6.7

Hello! As per your project description, you are looking for a senior PHP/MySQL engineer to build and evolve an internal workflow automation platform that will replace a third party system. The project involves a configurable workflow engine, queue based processing, RBAC, audit logging, financial data exchange, and a two tier AI architecture using local Ollama and Anthropic Claude with mandatory human approval. My focus will be on critically reviewing the existing schema and prototypes before implementation, then building the production architecture using PHP 8.1+, MySQL 8, vanilla JavaScript, AWS, and cron based processing. I will also implement the AI routing layer, workflow execution, secure data exchange, validation, and auditability without introducing unnecessary frameworks or dependencies. I specialize in PHP, MySQL, workflow automation, REST integrations, AI integrations, AWS, secure backend architecture, and maintainable server rendered applications. I will focus on keeping the workflow engine domain agnostic, the AI layer replaceable, and the overall platform reliable and maintainable for long term development. Let’s connect to discuss the existing architecture, paid trial task, workflow engine, and the roadmap for the six month plus engagement. Best regards, Nikita Gupta
$1,000 USD in 7 days
6.9
6.9

We are a senior software engineering team with extensive experience in PHP, MySQL, workflow automation, and enterprise web applications. We build secure, scalable, and maintainable systems with a strong focus on clean architecture, performance, and long-term reliability. Our team has experience designing workflow engines, RBAC systems, audit logging, AI integrations, API development, reporting interfaces, and complex database architectures. We are comfortable reviewing existing codebases, improving system design, and delivering production-ready solutions with well-structured, documented code. We value thoughtful planning, transparent communication, and consistent delivery throughout every milestone. From architecture review and implementation to testing, deployment, and long-term support, we work as a reliable development partner focused on building robust enterprise platforms.
$2,005 USD in 7 days
6.3
6.3

Hello! We can provide an external engineer to help build this workflow automation platform. 1. Are you open to working with an external contractor for this long-term build? 2. Which milestone should be tackled first? — About us We are dZENcode – a full-cycle IT company for digital product development: from design and programming to integrations and post-release support. We build projects from scratch and also work on existing solutions that need further development, improvements, or technical support. You can find detailed information about our services and rates on our official website: https://dzencode.com. Please review it – after that, we can discuss the details and agree on the next step. ⚠️ After clarifying all details, we will define the scope, the suitable cooperation format – task-based, outsourcing, or outstaffing – and the final cost. Projects are guaranteed to reach release with us: • 10+ years providing IT services; • 90+ in-house specialists; • 250+ public reviews since 2015; • We support products under SLA after launch; • We work under NDA and a company contract!
$2,005 USD in 7 days
6.7
6.7

SEQUENCE Hi there, I have read and understood the project details. This is a complex workflow automation platform that requires critical architectural review before development, not just feature implementation. I understand the emphasis on framework-free PHP, MySQL, auditability, AI routing between Ollama and Claude, reporting interfaces, and long-term maintainability using Claude Code workflows. My approach is to first review the existing schema, workflow engine, importer, and architecture to identify any scalability or design concerns before extending the platform. From there, I'll implement each milestone with clean, well-documented PHP 8 code, optimized MySQL queries, secure APIs, and comprehensive testing while preserving the separation between workflow definitions and runtime data. I also have experience working with AI integrations, automation workflows, and compliance-focused applications. Could you clarify whether the paid trial focuses primarily on evaluating Claude Code workflow practices or on implementing a specific PHP/MySQL feature from the existing codebase? I'd be happy to discuss the milestones, NDA process, and long-term collaboration. I can commit to regular overlap with U.S. Eastern hours and look forward to reviewing the existing architecture in detail. Cheers, Rabia Shaikh
$1,500 USD in 3 days
6.3
6.3

SEQUENCE. Hi There! I specialize in PHP/MySQL workflow automation with 9+ years of experience building secure, high-performance backend systems. I work with structured AI-assisted development, complex business logic, and scalable architectures, and I'm comfortable reviewing existing designs critically before implementation. Here's how I can help: 1. Review and strengthen your workflow architecture. 2. Build secure PHP/MySQL modules without frameworks. 3. Develop AI routing, audit, and reporting layers. 4. Deliver milestone-based, production-ready code. Can you share whether the paid trial focuses primarily on the workflow engine, Claude Code workflow, or both?
$3,250 USD in 7 days
5.9
5.9

SEQUENCE Your platform’s current state and needs remind me of a workflow engine I helped rebuild for a legal services client. Like you, they needed audit compliance, scalable task routing, and strict data separation. I examined their draft schema critically, highlighting key risks before coding, which saved rework. For your project, I’ll start by thoroughly reviewing your MySQL schema and prototype engine to ensure it’s solid for production—this is essential before building features like predecessor sequencing and workload balancing. Regarding the AI tier, I suggest implementing the routing layer as a clean abstraction, maybe using a strategy pattern in PHP to switch between Ollama and Claude based on task metadata and data sensitivity. For document generation, I propose building the human approval gate as a required manual step in the UI with strict audit logging. Two quick questions: How do you envision error handling and retry logic for the cron-driven background processing? Also, for the financial data ingress, do you have a preferred schema validation library or custom validator in mind, given the no-Composer rule? Ready to start with the seed loader milestone and provide a rigorous architecture review upfront.
$10 USD in 7 days
5.9
5.9

Hello dear, Greetings from Md. Toriqul Islam! We are a dedicated Web Design & Development team with over 10+ years of industry experience, I’m Engineer Toriqul Islam, an experienced Computer Science & Engineering graduate from (RUET). We specialize in building modern, scalable, and user-friendly digital solutions tailored to business needs. What I Offer We help businesses grow online by delivering: • Clean, modern, and responsive website designs • High-performance and scalable web applications • User-focused UI/UX for better engagement and conversion My Technical Expertise We work across a wide range of technologies, including: • Frontend: HTML5, CSS3, Bootstrap, JavaScript, jQuery, Angular, React • Backend: Node.js, PHP, Laravel, .NET, CodeIgniter, Ruby on Rails, Python • CMS & Platforms: WordPress • Database: MySQL, MongoDB • Mobile Development: React Native, Flutter, and more Why Choose me? ✔️ Clean, optimized, and well-documented code ✔️ Reusable and scalable components ✔️ On-time delivery with complete requirement fulfillment We are confident in our ability to turn your ideas into a powerful digital product. Let’s discuss your project and make it a success. Looking forward to working with you! Best Regards, Md. Toriqul Islam
$1,500 USD in 15 days
5.8
5.8

sequence hi, i have reviewed the details of your project. i have strong experience with php, mysql, workflow automation, and secure backend systems. i can review your current architecture, identify improvements before development, and build each milestone with clean php, optimized mysql queries, audit logging, workflow processing, reporting interfaces, and ai integration while keeping the code maintainable and scalable. i am comfortable working with nda based projects and long term development. can we schedule a quick meeting to discuss the project in detail. it will help me understand your needs better and give you a clear plan with timeline and budget. i will also share my portfolio during the chat. thanks mughiraa
$2,005 USD in 7 days
5.3
5.3

SEQUENCE The interesting risk in this build isn't the workflow engine itself, it's the AI routing layer sitting on top of it — you need a single abstraction that can send routine document assembly to the Mac/Ollama tier and reasoning-heavy work to Claude API, without the calling code ever caring which tier answered, and without the human approval gate becoming a bottleneck that undermines the automation you're trying to gain. That's a contract problem as much as an AI problem, and getting the interface wrong early means rewriting call sites later. Given the no-Composer, no-framework constraint, I'd treat the draft schema and prototype engine exactly as you're asking: audit first, not build on faith. Specifically I'd stress-test the definition/runtime separation against edge cases in your 290-activity template — predecessor chains that fork, confirmable dates that get pushed, hold/close states — before touching queue distribution or the star-schema egress views, since a wrong assumption in the engine's core evaluation logic propagates into every downstream milestone. On the reporting boundary, I'd design the ingress validation and rejection handling as its own isolated module with its own load log, so a bad external import can never silently corrupt the transactional side. Rather than answering the six screening questions inline here where formatting is limited, I'd rather walk you through specific examples directly — would you prefer that over a written trial task first?
$2,005 USD in 25 days
5.7
5.7

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