Lead Blockchain Architect - Decentralized Systems

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 2,400,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Relocation assistance

Continuous learning

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, seeks a Lead Blockchain Architect to design and implement next-generation decentralized systems, shaping the technical direction for scalable, secure networks and applications. You will lead a team of blockchain engineers, define standards, evaluate platforms, ensure governance and security, and drive DeFi initiatives within a fast-paced crypto ecosystem in South Africa.

Collaborate with stakeholders to translate business needs into technical specs and lead PoCs

Qualifications

• Master's degree in CS, IT or related field or equivalent experience.
• 10+ years in software architecture and development with at least 5 years in blockchain.
• Proven experience deploying enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of various DLTs (Hyperledger Fabric, Ethereum, Corda) and their underlying principles.
• Strong cryptography, distributed systems and security knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Architect end-to-end blockchain solutions, including consensus mechanisms, network protocols, and smart contract layers.
• Define technical standards, patterns, and best practices for blockchain development.
• Lead a team of blockchain developers and engineers, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Evaluate and select appropriate blockchain platforms and technologies for various use cases.
• Design for scalability, security, and performance of blockchain networks.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
• Oversee the development lifecycle, ensuring quality and timely delivery of blockchain projects.
• Conduct feasibility studies and proof-of-concepts for new blockchain initiatives.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property and thought leadership in blockchain technology.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and security best practices.

Skills

Blockchain architecture

Smart contract development

Distributed systems

Cryptography

Team leadership

Cloud platforms

Leadership & mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science or related field

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

AWS/Azure/GCP

Hyperledger Fabric

Ethereum

Corda

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead Blockchain Architect to spearhead the design and implementation of our next-generation decentralized systems. This is a senior-level position based in Benoni, Gauteng, offering the chance to define the technical direction for complex blockchain solutions. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, architecting, and guiding the development of robust, scalable, and secure blockchain networks and applications. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in blockchain technology, a deep understanding of distributed ledger technologies (DLTs), and a strong aptitude for strategic technical leadership. Join our client to make a significant impact on the future of digital assets and decentralized finance (DeFi) within the vibrant Crypto & Blockchain ecosystem. This role is critical in ensuring our technological infrastructure is prepared for future scalability and innovation in the South African market and beyond. You will be working in a fast-paced environment that encourages innovation and problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect end-to-end blockchain solutions, including consensus mechanisms, network protocols, and smart contract layers.
• Define technical standards, patterns, and best practices for blockchain development.
• Lead a team of blockchain developers and engineers, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Evaluate and select appropriate blockchain platforms and technologies for various use cases.
• Design for scalability, security, and performance of blockchain networks.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to understand business requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
• Oversee the development lifecycle, ensuring quality and timely delivery of blockchain projects.
• Conduct feasibility studies and proof-of-concepts for new blockchain initiatives.
• Contribute to the company's intellectual property and thought leadership in blockchain technology.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and security best practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 10+ years of experience in software architecture and development, with a minimum of 5 years dedicated to blockchain technology.
• Proven experience architecting and deploying enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.
• In-depth knowledge of various DLTs (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric, Ethereum, Corda) and their underlying principles.
• Expertise in smart contract development and security best practices.
• Strong understanding of cryptography, distributed systems, and network security.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Experience in managing and leading technical teams.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional certification in blockchain.
• Strategic leadership role with significant impact in Benoni, Gauteng.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday benefits.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and research.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.
• Collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Direct involvement in shaping the future of decentralized technologies.