Lead Network Infrastructure Engineer

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24, Randburg, South Africa, is seeking a Lead Network Infrastructure Engineer to design, implement, and manage robust networks across LAN/WAN/WLAN and data centers. You will lead a team and set technical direction to ensure security, reliability, and efficiency of IT infrastructure.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in network engineering, 3+ in leadership, strong routing/switching and security expertise, plus experience with cloud networking and monitoring tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in CS/IT or related field.
• CCIE, CCNP, or CISSP certifications are desirable.
• 8+ years in network engineering with at least 3 years in a leadership/senior role.
• Extensive experience with enterprise routing and switching protocols (BGP, OSPF, VLANs).
• Strong knowledge of network security principles and technologies (firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
• Experience with network monitoring tools (SolarWinds, Nagios).
• Expertise in designing and managing WLANs.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of enterprise-level network infrastructure (LAN/WAN/WLAN/data center).
• Develop and maintain network architecture diagrams, configurations, and documentation.
• Oversee deployment and configuration of routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.
• Ensure security with firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS and other controls.
• Monitor performance, identify bottlenecks, and optimize efficiency and reliability.
• Troubleshoot complex network problems and perform root-cause analysis.
• Lead and mentor a team of network engineers.
• Collaborate with IT security and systems administration for integration.
• Manage vendor relationships and evaluate new network technologies.
• Develop and implement disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

Skills

Leadership

Enterprise networking

Routing & Switching

Network Security

VPNs/IDS IPS

WLAN

Cloud networking

Communication

Problem solving

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Information Technology

Tools

SolarWinds

Nagios

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a rapidly expanding technology firm based in Randburg, Gauteng , is seeking a Lead Network Infrastructure Engineer to design, implement, and manage their robust and scalable network systems. This pivotal role involves overseeing the architecture, deployment, and maintenance of high-performance networks that support critical business operations. You will lead a team of network engineers, set technical direction, and ensure the security, reliability, and efficiency of the company's network infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in enterprise networking, a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, and proven leadership capabilities. This is an excellent opportunity to shape the network foundation of a forward-thinking organization in the heart of Randburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and ongoing management of enterprise-level network infrastructure, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, and data center networks.
• Develop and maintain network architecture diagrams, configurations, and documentation.
• Oversee the deployment and configuration of network hardware, such as routers, switches, firewalls, and load balancers.
• Ensure network security by implementing and managing firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and other security measures.
• Monitor network performance, proactively identify potential bottlenecks or issues, and implement solutions to optimize efficiency and reliability.
• Troubleshoot complex network problems, performing root cause analysis and implementing timely resolutions.
• Lead and mentor a team of network engineers, providing technical guidance and support.
• Collaborate with IT security and systems administration teams to ensure seamless integration and operation of IT infrastructure.
• Manage vendor relationships and evaluate new network technologies and solutions.
• Develop and implement network disaster recovery and business continuity plans.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Relevant certifications such as CCIE, CCNP, or CISSP are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in network engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior technical role.
• Extensive experience with enterprise routing and switching protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF, VLANs).
• Strong knowledge of network security principles and technologies (e.g., firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
• Proven experience with network monitoring and management tools (e.g., SolarWinds, Nagios).
• Expertise in designing and managing wireless networks (WLAN).
• Familiarity with cloud networking concepts (e.g., AWS, Azure).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure in a dynamic environment.
• Experience working in the Randburg and wider Gauteng area is beneficial.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement annuities, and performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for advanced training, professional development, and career growth are abundant. You will work with cutting-edge network technologies and contribute to critical IT infrastructure. We foster a collaborative and innovative work culture. Join a leading technology firm in Gauteng and take your career to the next level.