Principal Information Security Engineer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Performance bonuses

Stock options

Professional development budget

Flexible schedule

Remote work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Information Security Engineer to lead and shape the security posture of a leading organization in a fully remote role. You will design, implement, and manage advanced security solutions, mentor engineers, and drive innovation across cloud environments, containers, and microservices.

The ideal candidate has 12+ years in information security, deep cloud/security knowledge, scripting in Python/Go, and strong incident response and strategic leadership capabilities.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related technical discipline.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in information security, with strong engineering and architecture focus.
• Proven expertise designing and implementing complex security solutions at large scale.
• Deep knowledge of cloud security, network security, cryptography, and application security.
• Experience with security automation, scripting (Python, Go), and CI/CD security integration.
• Strong threat intelligence, incident response, and digital forensics knowledge.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working effectively in a high-performing, fully remote team.
• Advanced certifications such as CISSP-ISSAP, OSCP, or cloud security specializations are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and deployment of sophisticated security systems and infrastructure.
• Develop and implement robust security strategies against APTs and zero-day exploits.
• Architect secure solutions for cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP), containers, and microservices.
• Conduct security assessments, threat modeling, and penetration testing.
• Oversee incident response activities, ensuring rapid containment and remediation.
• Mentor junior security engineers and promote technical excellence.
• Evaluate and integrate new security technologies and tools to enhance defense.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to embed security in the product development lifecycle.

Skills

Cybersecurity architecture

Security leadership

Threat modeling

Cloud security

Security automation

Python

Go

CI/CD security

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science/Cybersecurity

Tools

Python

Go

CI/CD security tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Principal Information Security Engineer to join their elite cybersecurity team. This role is a fully remote opportunity, offering the chance to shape and elevate the security posture of a leading organization. You will be instrumental in designing, implementing, and managing advanced security solutions, tackling complex security challenges, and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate is a recognized expert in cybersecurity, with a deep understanding of threat landscapes, risk management, and secure system design. If you are a seasoned professional looking to make a significant impact in a challenging and rewarding remote role, this is your opportunity to lead key security initiatives and drive innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and deployment of sophisticated security systems and infrastructure.
• Develop and implement robust security strategies to protect against advanced persistent threats (APTs) and zero-day exploits.
• Architect secure solutions for cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP), containerization, and microservices.
• Conduct in-depth security assessments, threat modeling, and penetration testing.
• Oversee incident response activities, ensuring rapid containment and effective remediation.
• Mentor and guide junior security engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence.
• Evaluate and integrate new security technologies and tools to enhance defense capabilities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure security is embedded throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Act as a technical authority on security matters and represent the security team in high-level discussions.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or a related technical discipline.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in information security, with a strong emphasis on engineering and architecture.
• Proven expertise in designing and implementing complex security solutions in large-scale environments.
• Deep knowledge of cloud security best practices, network security, cryptography, and application security.
• Experience with security automation, scripting (Python, Go), and CI/CD security integration.
• Strong understanding of threat intelligence, incident response, and digital forensics.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience working effectively in a high-performing, fully remote team.
• Relevant advanced certifications such as CISSP-ISSAP, OSCP, or cloud security specializations are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Top-tier salary and comprehensive performance-based bonuses.
• Executive-level benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Significant budget for professional development, advanced training, and certifications.
• Stock options or equity grants reflecting the seniority of the role.
• Generous retirement savings plan contributions.
• Extensive paid time off and flexible work schedule.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and influence strategic security direction.