Shopify App Developer (Backend + Frontend)

We are looking for an experienced Shopify App Developer (Backend + Frontend) to help us bring our existing prototype into the Shopify ecosystem. Our product is designed to take over the entire returns and exchanges process for Shopify merchants—similar to Loop Returns (https://www.loopreturns.com) and (https://www.itsrever.com/en). We already have a working prototype and designs (currently web-based), and now we need to package it as a polished, scalable Shopify app. Happy to schedule a call to show everything for a better understanding of the work that needs to be done. What We Provide • A fully functional prototype (web version) to demonstrate flows. • UI/UX designs ready to implement. • A clear feature roadmap (core + optional features). • Direct support from our team and scheduled calls to walk through the prototype. Project Scope The project will be structured in phases, with a cost estimate required per feature, as well as an estimate for the basic core app and a total estimate. Core Features (Must-Have for v1) 1. Branded Return Portal (Customer Flow) o Customers can look up their orders, select items to return, and choose their preferred resolution (exchange, refund, store credit). 2. Exchange Functionality o Customers can directly swap a product for a different size, color, or variant. 3. Store Credit / Gift Card Generation o Instead of refunds, customers can choose store credit or receive a gift card. 4. Merchant Backend Portal o Dashboard where brands can view, track, accept, or decline return requests. Additional Features (Nice-to-Have, Price/Time Dependent) Please provide separate pricing estimates for the following add-ons: • Analytics Dashboard (return rates, top reasons, revenue retained, etc.) • Bonus Credit Options (incentivize customers with extra credit if they choose store credit over refunds) • Fraud & Abuse Controls (limit overuse, flag suspicious activity) • Automated Workflows (rule-based approvals, e.g. “auto-approve if product < $50”) • Shipping & Logistics Integrations (auto-generate labels, connect with carriers) • Refund Method Flexibility (refund to card, PayPal, bank account, store credit) • AI/Smart Recommendations (recommend exchanges instead of refunds, or upsell alternatives) • Multi-Language / International Support • Customer Communication Tools (automated emails, status updates) • API / Integrations (connect with 3rd-party tools like ERPs, CRMs, or POS systems) • Gift Exchanges / Instant Exchanges • Advanced Permissions / Multi-User Merchant Dashboard What We Expect • Strong experience building Shopify public/private apps. • Ability to design scalable backend architecture (Node.js/Express, Ruby on Rails, or similar). • Familiarity with Shopify APIs (Orders, Refunds, Gift Cards, etc.). • Experience with secure payment/refund flows. • Clean, maintainable, well-documented code. • Transparent communication and ability to provide detailed cost breakdowns. Application Instructions When applying, please include: 1. Your relevant Shopify App experience (with examples). 2. A breakdown of cost estimates: o Basic Core Product (return portal + exchanges + gift card/store credit + backend portal). o Each Additional Feature (separate pricing for analytics, logistics integrations, fraud detection, etc.). o Total cost estimate for building everything. 3. Your estimated timeline for v1. 4. Whether you are available for ongoing collaboration (feature updates, maintenance).