Complex API System Overhaul for Mobile App

eeking an experienced Laravel expert to enhance and expand an existing Laravel-based web application by building a robust and scalable API system. This API will primarily be used to support our mobile app, providing seamless integration with our existing database and services. The mobile app is designed for high-performance real-time interaction with users, and the API must be able to handle this level of demand. Objectives: Modify the existing API to support new mobile app features. Create new API endpoints as required to support mobile app functionalities. Ensure that the API is secure, scalable, and optimized for high performance. Ensure the API structure follows best practices for RESTful services, including versioning. Develop clear and comprehensive documentation for the API. Implement authentication, authorization, and rate limiting features as required. Key Requirements: API Modification & Extension: Review the current API and modify it to suit the new mobile app needs. Work closely with the mobile development team to ensure that the API supports all necessary app features. Handle complex queries and ensure that the API endpoints return the correct data efficiently. Implement pagination, filtering, and sorting where applicable. New API Endpoint Development: Create new endpoints to accommodate new functionalities required by the mobile app. Ensure that these endpoints are secure, optimized, and able to handle a large volume of requests. Implement API versioning to future-proof the app. Security: Implement security best practices such as token-based authentication (e.g., JWT or Laravel Passport). Ensure that sensitive data is encrypted, both in transit and at rest. Use rate limiting and IP whitelisting to protect the API from abuse. Secure API endpoints against common attacks (e.g., SQL injection, XSS, CSRF). Performance Optimization: Ensure API response times are optimized by using caching, indexing, and efficient database queries. Use a robust job queue system (e.g., Laravel Horizon) for handling time-consuming tasks asynchronously. Testing: Write unit tests, integration tests, and automated tests to ensure the API functions as intended. Use Laravel’s built-in testing tools to ensure all endpoints work as expected and that changes do not break existing functionality. Documentation: Develop comprehensive API documentation using tools like Swagger or Postman to ensure that both internal and external teams can easily integrate with and use the API. Provide clear instructions on authentication, headers, and parameters needed for each endpoint. Skills & Experience Required: Expertise in Laravel (at least 3+ years of experience). Strong experience with building and modifying complex RESTful APIs. Proficiency in PHP, MySQL, and relevant database technologies. Strong understanding of API security, including OAuth, JWT, and other authentication protocols. Experience with Laravel API resources, routes, and middleware. Familiarity with caching mechanisms (Redis, Memcached). Experience with performance tuning and optimizing database queries. Strong understanding of version control (Git). Timeline: Initial Review and Planning: 1 week API Modification & New Endpoints Development: 3-4 weeks Security & Optimization: 1 week Testing & Documentation: 1-2 weeks Deliverables: Fully functional, secure, and tested API. Documentation for all API endpoints. Source code delivered via a Git repository. Post-deployment support for bug fixes and adjustments (if needed). Communication & Reporting: Weekly progress meetings via video call. Regular updates on a project management tool (e.g., Jira, Trello) to track tasks and milestones. Clear and prompt communication via email or Slack.