Lead 5G Network Architect

Placements24; Rustenburg; Remote; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Remote stipend

Professional growth

Flexible hours

R&D projects

Retirement plan

Unlimited vacation

Laptop & phone provided

Team events

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead 5G Network Architect to drive the design and strategic evolution of a remote-first 5G network. You will shape core, RAN, and edge solutions, mentor engineers, and define roadmaps for secure, scalable deployments across national operations.

The role requires 10+ years in telecom with strong 5G expertise, virtualization (NFV/SDN), containerization (Docker/Kubernetes), and cloud-native approaches, plus exceptional communication to align stakeholders.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in telecommunications network design and architecture, with at least 5 years in 5G.
• Deep expertise in 5G Core (5GC), RAN (O-RAN / vRAN) and IP networking.
• Strong virtualization (NFV/SDN) and containerization experience.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical programs and mentor teams.
• Experience with cloud-native architectures and multi-cloud environments.
• Knowledge of network security principles in 5G systems.
• Experience shaping technology roadmaps and business cases.
• Familiarity with global 5G standards and regulatory landscapes.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and architecture of scalable, reliable 5G networks across core, RAN, and transport.
• Define 5G strategies, roadmaps, and technology criteria to meet objectives.
• Develop architectures for network slicing, edge computing, and IoT services.
• Evaluate new 5G technologies, standards, and vendor solutions.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and product management for lifecycle management.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to network architects and engineers.
• Analyze performance metrics to identify optimization opportunities.
• Create and maintain high-level designs and detailed specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and PoCs for emerging 5G capabilities.
• Ensure security and regulatory compliance in network designs.

Skills

5G Core (5GC)

RAN (O-RAN / vRAN)

IP networking

NFV/SDN

Cloud-native architectures

Docker

Kubernetes

Security best practices

Technical leadership

Roadmapping & business cases

Stakeholder communication

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering / Computer Science

PhD (optional)

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Cloud platforms (AWS/GCP/Azure)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in the telecommunications industry, is looking for an exceptional Lead 5G Network Architect to join their expanding, remote-first team. This critical role involves shaping the future of 5G technology, focusing on the design and strategic evolution of our client's 5G network infrastructure. You will be instrumental in developing innovative architectural blueprints that support advanced mobile services, IoT applications, and ultra-low latency communications. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility to talented professionals across the nation, with a specific need for expertise to guide development for operations that will serve areas like Rustenburg. We are seeking a visionary leader with extensive experience in mobile core networks, radio access networks (RAN), and edge computing. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of 5G standards, network slicing, and virtualization technologies, driving the deployment of high-performance, secure, and scalable 5G solutions. Your expertise will directly influence the company's technological roadmap and competitive edge in the evolving telecommunications landscape. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact from anywhere.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of scalable, reliable, and high-performance 5G networks, encompassing core, RAN, and transport layers.
• Define 5G network strategies, roadmaps, and technology selection criteria to meet business objectives.
• Develop architectural frameworks for network slicing, edge computing, and advanced IoT services.
• Evaluate and integrate new 5G technologies, standards, and vendor solutions.
• Collaborate closely with engineering, operations, and product management teams to ensure successful implementation and lifecycle management.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of network architects and engineers.
• Analyze network performance metrics and identify areas for optimization and enhancement.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive architectural documentation, including high-level designs and detailed specifications.
• Conduct feasibility studies and proof-of-concept trials for emerging 5G capabilities.
• Ensure network designs comply with security best practices, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; equivalent practical experience will be considered.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications network design and architecture, with at least 5 years focused on 5G technologies.
• Demonstrated expertise in 5G Core (5GC), RAN (e.g., O-RAN, vRAN), and IP networking.
• In-depth knowledge of virtualization technologies (NFV/SDN) and containerization (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with cloud-native architectures and multi-cloud environments.
• Strong understanding of network security principles and implementation in 5G systems.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and mentor engineering teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in developing strategic technology roadmaps and business cases.
• Familiarity with global 5G standards and regulatory landscapes.
• This is a fully remote position, requiring self-discipline and strong remote collaboration skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with potential for performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous remote work stipend for home office setup.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, training, and certifications.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate global collaboration.
• Access to cutting-edge 5G research and development projects.
• Contributory retirement savings plan.
• Unlimited vacation policy.
• Company-provided high-performance laptop and mobile device.
• Regular virtual team-building events and social activities.