Principal Cloud Security Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Health, dental, vision insurance

401(k) matching program

Extensive paid time off

Learning & conference opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Cloud Security Engineer to join a fully remote technology team. The role focuses on designing and maintaining a secure cloud posture across AWS, Azure, and GCP, with a remote-first model and global collaboration.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in information security, 5+ years in cloud security, and strong IaC, scripting, and security governance experience. Remote work with opportunities for leadership and advancement is offered.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field.
• 10+ years of information security experience with at least 5 years in cloud security engineering.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage robust security solutions for cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Develop and enforce cloud security policies, standards, and governance frameworks.
• Lead security architecture reviews for cloud initiatives and services.
• Implement and manage cloud security tools, including WAF, IDS/IPS, security groups, and secrets management.
• Automate security controls using IaC and scripting (Python, Terraform).
• Conduct security assessments, penetration testing, and vulnerability management in the cloud.
• Develop and maintain incident response plans for cloud threats.
• Collaborate with development and operations to ensure secure deployment (DevSecOps).
• Stay ahead of evolving cloud threats and compliance requirements.

Skills

Cloud security leadership

IaC automation

Security compliance

Cloud platforms

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science or Cybersecurity

Tools

Terraform

CloudFormation

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a Principal Cloud Security Engineer to join their dynamic and fully remote technology team. This senior-level position is critical for designing, implementing, and maintaining the security posture of our client's cloud infrastructure across various platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP). As a remote-first role, you will collaborate with engineering and operations teams globally, ensuring our cloud environments are secure, compliant, and resilient. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with deep expertise in cloud security architecture, automation, and threat mitigation strategies. You will be instrumental in setting the strategic direction for cloud security, driving innovation, and establishing best practices. This role offers a unique opportunity to architect cutting-edge cloud security solutions and influence security decisions at the highest level, all from the convenience of your home office. We are committed to building a secure future, and this role is central to that mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage robust security solutions for cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Develop and enforce cloud security policies, standards, and governance frameworks.
• Lead security architecture reviews for new cloud initiatives and services.
• Implement and manage cloud security tools, including WAF, IDS/IPS, security groups, and secrets management.
• Automate security controls and processes using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) and scripting (Python, Terraform).
• Conduct regular security assessments, penetration testing, and vulnerability management in the cloud.
• Develop and maintain incident response plans specific to cloud-based threats.
• Collaborate with development and operations teams to ensure secure application deployment (DevSecOps).
• Stay ahead of evolving cloud threats, vulnerabilities, and compliance requirements.
• Mentor and guide other security engineers and cloud professionals.

Requirements

• Master's degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in information security, with at least 5 years focused on cloud security engineering.
• Extensive hands-on experience securing major cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Deep understanding of cloud networking, identity and access management (IAM), and data protection.
• Proficiency in IaC tools (Terraform, CloudFormation) and scripting languages (Python, Bash).
• Experience with container security (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Knowledge of security compliance frameworks (e.g., SOC 2, PCI DSS, GDPR) in a cloud context.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to lead technical initiatives and mentor junior team members remotely.
• Relevant cloud security certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Security - Specialty, Azure Security Engineer Associate) are strongly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a leading compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, significant bonus opportunities, and equity options.
• Employees receive top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance.
• A generous 401(k) matching program.
• Extensive paid time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities, certifications, and conference attendance.
• This is a fully remote position, offering the ultimate flexibility to work from anywhere, ideally within or near Rustenburg, North West, ZA.
• Our client prides itself on a culture of innovation, collaboration, and mutual respect, ensuring a supportive and engaging remote work experience.

Join a team that is at the forefront of cloud security and drive impactful change.