Lead Blockchain Architect - Remote First

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 3,046,000 - 4,399,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Stock options

Health benefits

Continuous learning

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Blockchain Architect for a fully remote, remote-first role. Ideally based near Cape Town, Western Cape, but open to global candidates, the position demands strategic thinking and a proven track record in scalable, secure blockchain designs.

You will define the technical roadmap, lead crypto networks, mentor engineers, and translate business needs into robust technical solutions while aligning with governance best practices.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in software architecture with a focus on blockchain.
• Deep knowledge of Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, Corda, and Solana.
• Proven ability to design enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.
• Strong background in smart contract development and cryptography.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP) and containerization (Docker/Kubernetes).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management.
• Strategic thinker capable of translating business needs into technical strategy.
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Define and maintain the overall blockchain architecture strategy and roadmap.
• Lead design and development of high-performance, scalable, secure networks and protocols.
• Evaluate and select appropriate blockchain technologies for various use cases.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to blockchain teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate business needs into technical requirements.
• Ensure adherence to best practices in development, security, governance.
• Conduct feasibility studies and proofs-of-concepts for new initiatives.
• Contribute to development of standards and documentation.
• Stay current with emerging blockchain technologies and industry standards.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in blockchain solutions, is actively seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Blockchain Architect for a fully remote, remote-first position. Based ideally within proximity to Cape Town, Western Cape , but not restricted, this role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in designing and implementing scalable, secure, and resilient blockchain architectures. You will be instrumental in defining the technical roadmap for our client's next generation of decentralized platforms and services. This is an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of blockchain technology from anywhere in the world, driving innovation and leading a talented team of engineers. We are looking for a thought leader who can translate complex business requirements into robust technical solutions and inspire confidence in stakeholders through clear communication and technical expertise. Your contributions will directly impact the company's strategic direction and its position in the competitive blockchain landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and maintain the overall blockchain architecture strategy and roadmap.
• Lead the design and development of high-performance, scalable, and secure blockchain networks and protocols.
• Evaluate and select appropriate blockchain technologies, platforms, and tools for various use cases.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to blockchain development teams.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand business needs and translate them into technical requirements.
• Ensure adherence to best practices in blockchain development, security, and governance.
• Conduct feasibility studies and proof-of-concepts for new blockchain initiatives.
• Contribute to the development of technical standards and documentation.
• Stay current with emerging blockchain technologies, trends, and industry standards.

Requirements

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in software architecture, with a significant focus on blockchain technologies.
• Deep understanding of various blockchain platforms (e.g., Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, Corda, Solana) and their underlying principles.
• Proven ability to design and implement complex, enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.
• Strong knowledge of smart contract development, distributed ledger technology, and cryptographic principles.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and translate business objectives into technical strategies.
• Master's or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is highly desirable.

Benefits

• As a fully remote-first organization, our client offers unparalleled flexibility.
• Enjoy a competitive annual salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a generous stock options package.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional growth, including certifications and conference attendance, are actively encouraged.
• Be part of an innovative, globally distributed team working on impactful blockchain projects.
• We foster a culture of trust, autonomy, and collaboration, providing the resources you need to succeed regardless of your location.