Cloud Network Architect

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Bonus

Stock options

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Conference access

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Cloud Network Architect to design, implement, and manage advanced cloud-based network infrastructures across AWS, Azure, and GCP. This fully remote role requires leadership in SDN, NFV, and security, with a focus on scalable, resilient architectures.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in network engineering, 4+ years in cloud networking, and relevant cloud certifications. You will drive cloud adoption, optimize performance, and mentor engineers remotely.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent).
• 8+ years in network engineering with at least 4 years in cloud networking.
• Extensive experience with AWS, Azure, and/or GCP.
• Knowledge of VPCs, subnets, routing, firewalls, load balancing, and DNS.
• Proficiency in Terraform, Ansible, Python for automation.
• Strong security principles including encryption and IPS/IDS.

Responsibilities

• Design scalable, secure cloud network architectures across multi-cloud environments.
• Define hybrid cloud connectivity strategies (VPNs, Direct Connect/ExpressRoute, SD-WAN).
• Automate provisioning and management of networks using Terraform, Ansible, Python.
• Mentor network engineering teams and provide technical leadership.
• Ensure high availability and robust security across cloud networks.

Skills

Cloud networking

SDN & NFV

Terraform/Ansible/Python

Multi-cloud design

Security architecture

Education

Master's degree or PhD in CS/Engineering

Tools

Terraform

Ansible

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in telecommunications innovation, is seeking an exceptional Cloud Network Architect to join their expanding remote team. This senior role is instrumental in designing, implementing, and managing sophisticated cloud-based network infrastructures that support cutting-edge telecommunications services. You will be responsible for architecting scalable, secure, and highly available network solutions within major cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This position is fully remote, offering unparalleled flexibility to work from anywhere in South Africa . We are looking for a visionary professional with deep expertise in cloud networking, SDN, and network automation. The ideal candidate will drive the adoption of cloud technologies, optimize network performance, and ensure robust security posture. This is a premier opportunity to lead architectural initiatives, influence strategic decisions, and shape the future of cloud-enabled telecommunications.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement resilient, scalable, and secure network architectures in multi-cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Develop strategies for hybrid cloud connectivity, including VPNs, dedicated connections (e.g., Direct Connect, ExpressRoute), and SD-WAN.
• Define and enforce network security policies, best practices, and compliance requirements in the cloud.
• Automate network provisioning, configuration, and management using tools like Terraform, Ansible, and Python.
• Collaborate with development, operations, and security teams to ensure seamless integration of network services.
• Monitor cloud network performance, identify issues, and implement proactive solutions for optimization and high availability.
• Evaluate and recommend new cloud networking technologies and services.
• Develop comprehensive documentation, including network diagrams, design guides, and operational procedures.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network engineering teams.
• Stay abreast of emerging cloud trends and industry best practices in network architecture.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; equivalent practical experience considered.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in network engineering, with at least 4 years focused on cloud networking.
• Extensive experience designing and managing complex networks on AWS, Azure, and/or GCP.
• Deep understanding of cloud networking concepts: VPCs, subnets, routing, firewalls, load balancing, and DNS.
• Proficiency in network automation tools and scripting languages (Terraform, Ansible, Python).
• Strong knowledge of network security principles, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and encryption.
• Experience with Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV).
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Relevant cloud certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Advanced Networking, Azure Network Engineer Associate) are highly desirable.
• Proven ability to lead technical initiatives and work effectively in a fully remote team environment.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive executive-level salary, a significant performance-based bonus, and stock options. Our client provides an exceptional benefits package, including top-tier medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and extensive paid time off. You will have access to continuous professional development resources, cutting-edge training programs, and opportunities to attend industry conferences. The flexibility of remote work, combined with the chance to work on transformative projects for a leading telecommunications innovator, makes this a unique career opportunity.