Lead Network Architect

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Network Architect in Polokwane, Limpopo, to define and guide the future of the company’s network infrastructure. You will design scalable, secure solutions and lead engineering teams across LAN, WAN, data center, and cloud connectivity.

We value deep expertise in routing protocols, security, and enterprise-grade architectures, with a track record of delivering high-performance networks and clear architectural governance for strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in related field.
• 10+ years in network engineering and architecture.
• Expertise in large-scale enterprise networks (Cisco/Juniper).
• Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, SD-WAN.
• Security principles: firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS.
• Cloud networking experience (AWS/Azure/GCP) desirable.
• Advanced certifications (CCDE/CCAr/JNCIE-SP) advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the network architecture strategy and roadmap.
• Design resilient, high-performance enterprise networks (LAN/WAN/DC).
• Evaluate new network technologies and vendor solutions.
• Establish standards and documentation for network designs.
• Provide technical leadership to network engineering teams.
• Collaborate with security to integrate robust controls.
• Conduct capacity planning and performance analysis.
• Troubleshoot architecture-level network issues.
• Develop proposals and present designs to leadership.
• Ensure designs meet business objectives and regulatory requirements.

Skills

Network design

Leadership

Communication

Security concepts

Cloud networking

Troubleshooting / problem-solving

Education

Master's degree in Computer Engineering / Electrical Engineering / Computer Science

Tools

Cisco

Juniper

Routing & Switching

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading telecommunications provider, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Network Architect to define and guide the future of their network infrastructure in **Polokwane**, **Limpopo**. This strategic role involves designing robust, scalable, and secure network solutions that support current and future business needs. You will be responsible for evaluating emerging technologies, setting architectural standards, and ensuring the integrity of our network design across **Polokwane**. The ideal candidate possesses deep technical expertise in network design, protocols, and security, coupled with strong leadership and communication skills. This is a critical position for driving technological innovation and ensuring network excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the overall network architecture strategy and roadmap.
• Design resilient, high-performance network solutions, including LAN, WAN, wireless, and data center networks.
• Evaluate new network technologies, protocols, and vendor solutions for potential adoption.
• Establish and enforce network design standards, best practices, and documentation requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to network engineering teams.
• Collaborate with security teams to integrate robust security measures into network designs.
• Conduct network capacity planning and performance analysis to ensure scalability.
• Troubleshoot complex network issues at an architectural level.
• Develop proposals and present architectural designs to senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure network designs align with business objectives and regulatory compliance requirements.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in network engineering and architecture, with a significant focus on enterprise-level design.
• Proven expertise in designing large-scale, complex networks using various routing and switching technologies (e.g., Cisco, Juniper).
• Deep understanding of TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS, SD-WAN, and other key network protocols.
• Strong knowledge of network security principles, including firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS.
• Experience with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP) is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and presentation abilities.
• Relevant advanced certifications (e.g., CCDE, CCAr, JNCIE-SP) are a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development. This **hybrid** role allows for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, based in **Polokwane**, **Limpopo**. Employees will work on impactful projects, shaping the future of network technology within a leading telecommunications company.