Lead Network Architect - Remote

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary

Professional development

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Network Architect to drive scalable, secure network designs in a fully remote team. You will shape strategy, mentor engineers, and lead complex IP, SDN/NFV, and cloud initiatives across global projects.

The role requires deep BGP/OSPF expertise, hybrid cloud setups, and a track record translating business needs into robust solutions. This is a remote, high-impact opportunity with cross‑time‑zone collaboration.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in network engineering and architecture with design and strategy focus.
• Expertise in designing/implementing complex IP networks and traffic engineering.
• Deep understanding of cloud networking and hybrid cloud architectures.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Proven ability to translate business needs into robust network solutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the overall network architecture strategy.
• Design scalable, secure, high-performance network solutions for diverse environments.
• Lead evaluation of new network technologies, hardware, and software.
• Provide technical leadership to network engineering and operations teams.
• Create topology diagrams, IP schemes, and configuration guidelines.
• Collaborate with security, systems, and cloud teams for integrated solutions.
• Conduct feasibility studies and performance analyses for changes.
• Develop network standards and operating procedures.
• Mentor junior engineers and architects; drive technical growth.

Skills

IP networking design

BGP/OSPF routing

Cloud networking (AWS/Azure/GCP)

SDN/NFV

Network security

Leadership

Stakeholder communication

Education

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

Tools

CCIE

JNCIE

Cloud architect certifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the telecommunications industry, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Network Architect to join their fully remote team. This role is critical in shaping the future of our client's network infrastructure, focusing on innovation, scalability, and resilience. You will be responsible for designing high-level network architectures, developing strategic roadmaps, and providing technical leadership across complex projects. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of current and emerging network technologies, coupled with a proven ability to translate business requirements into robust and efficient network solutions. This remote-first position offers the opportunity to work with a global team of experts, driving significant advancements in network design and implementation. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for designing next-generation networks and thrive in a collaborative remote environment, this opportunity is for you. We are committed to building a world-class, distributed technical team.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the overall network architecture strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals and technological advancements.
• Design scalable, secure, and high-performance network solutions for enterprise and service provider environments.
• Lead the evaluation and selection of new network technologies, hardware, and software.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to network engineering and operations teams.
• Create detailed network design documentation, including topology diagrams, IP addressing schemes, and configuration guidelines.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., security, systems, cloud) to ensure integrated solutions.
• Conduct feasibility studies and performance analyses for proposed network changes and upgrades.
• Develop and implement network standards, best practices, and operational procedures.
• Mentor junior network engineers and architects, fostering their technical growth.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, competitive landscapes, and emerging technologies to drive innovation.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with a significant focus on design and strategy.
• Extensive expertise in designing and implementing complex IP networks, including routing (BGP, OSPF), switching, MPLS, and traffic engineering.
• Deep understanding of cloud networking principles (AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid cloud architectures.
• Proven experience with network virtualization, SDN, and NFV technologies.
• Strong knowledge of network security principles, firewalls, and intrusion detection/prevention systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, capable of influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience managing technical teams.
• Relevant certifications such as CCIE, JNCIE, or cloud architect certifications are highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, including a highly competitive salary, annual bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as premium health, dental, and vision insurance, extensive paid time off, and a robust retirement plan. This is a fully remote position, offering unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance. We provide extensive opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training, certifications, and attendance at leading industry conferences. Join a forward-thinking, collaborative, and innovative remote team that is at the forefront of telecommunications technology.