Full-stack web developer (mid level)

[About us] Colab is an architecture and design studio based in Lititz, Pennsylvania, with an additional studio located in Milan, Italy. Our work spans a wide range of creative and entrepreneurial projects — from managing a restaurant website and reservation system, to operating a wholesale fine art poster business, to supporting large public events and workshops, and developing digital platforms that extend our design and planning work. Many of these projects have robust web and social components. [The Role] This is not a typical agency role. We are looking for a versatile, design-aware developer to join our Milano studio. You'll work on a diverse ecosystem of real businesses and creative projects. We are looking for a full-time partner to take long-term ownership of our digital ecosystem. This is an in-studio position (5 days per week) for someone who thrives in a shared creative environment and values the spontaneous collaboration that happens side-by-side with designers and art directors, moving between platforms, tools, and project types. While our priority is a full-time commitment to attract top-tier talent, we are open to negotiating flexible hours or part-time arrangements for the right professional. You will have ownership over a diverse group of projects, working closely with our Art Director and design team to ensure high-level UX and visual craft. [What you'll do]

Manage, maintain, and optimize multiple Word Press websites Support and integrate restaurant reservation software Maintain and extend a Wikimedia-based platform Customize and integrate Shopify and Faire for a B2 B and B2 C fine art business Build and refine modern front-end interfaces Work with APIs, structured data, and backend logic Collaborate closely with designers and marketing professionals from concept through launch Gradually ramp into i OS and Android app development tied to a data-rich web platform

[What We're Looking For]

3–5+ years of professional web development experience Strong technical foundation across front- and back-end systems Comfort balancing new feature development with ongoing maintenance Curiosity and willingness to learn new tools and frameworks Ability to work independently while collaborating in a small studio environment A strong understanding of modern web design, usability, and UX best practices Interest in growing into a more senior technical leadership role over time

[Technical Stack] Core Web Development (The Essentials)

Deep PHP Knowledge: Since Word Press (DIVI) and Media Wiki are central to our ecosystem, you must be comfortable with custom theme/plugin development and backend optimization. Modern Front-End: Proficiency in HTML5, CSS3 (SCSS), and modern Java Script. CMS Architecture: Expert-level management of Word Press and experience with Shopify (Liquid) for e-commerce integrations.

Data & Systems

Structured Data: Experience managing and extending Media Wiki or similar Wikimedia-based platforms for large-scale data projects. APIs & Integrations: Comfort connecting third-party services (Reservation systems, Faire, etc.) via REST APIs. Environment: Proficiency with Git (version control) and basic server management.

The Future (Nice to Have) Mobile Readiness: Familiarity with Node.js or cross-platform frameworks (like React Native) to help us transition our data-rich platforms into i OS/Android apps.

[The Team & Environment] You will work directly with our Art Director and a multidisciplinary international team of designers and marketing professionals, but this role requires someone who can take ownership of technical decisions, think strategically, and collaborate closely with creatives to produce thoughtful, well-executed digital experiences. This is an in-studio role based in Milan, Italy (5 days per week). [Compensation & Benefits]

Type: Long-term Freelance Retainer. Commitment: Full-time (preferred), in-studio (Milan). Flexibility: Flexible hours or part-time schedules may be negotiated for the ideal candidate. Compensation: Competitive and commensurate with experience and level of commitment. The Hub: Our studio is located within Talent Garden (TAG) Isola, Milan's premier innovation hub. You'll have a dedicated desk in a vibrant, design-driven environment. Networking & Community: Full access to the TAG ecosystem, including networking events, tech workshops, and the chance to connect with a community of digital innovators. Prime Location: Based in the heart of the Isola district, perfectly positioned for the best lunch spots and after-work drinks in the city.

How to apply: Send CV & PORTFOLIO to jobs@colab.org & chiara@colab.org