Principal IP Network Designer

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health benefits

Performance bonuses

International conference opportunities

Hybrid role

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton, Gauteng is seeking a Principal IP Network Designer to lead end-to-end design of complex IP networks for a global telecommunications infrastructure leader.

You will architect cutting-edge solutions, drive innovation, and ensure scalability, resilience, and security across the network, working with senior teams and stakeholders to translate business needs into robust designs.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of IP network design and architecture experience.
• Expert in BGP, OSPF, IS-IS, MPLS, SR and traffic engineering.
• Security, VPNs and DDoS mitigation knowledge.
• CCIE R&S/JNCIE-SP desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design of complex IP networks including routing, switching, MPLS and security frameworks.
• Develop high-level and low-level network designs, topology, capacity planning and traffic engineering.
• Evaluate and select network technologies and vendor solutions to meet objectives.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations and product management to ensure implementable designs and SLAs.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and designers.
• Conduct feasibility studies, proofs of concept and performance analyses for proposed designs.
• Ensure designs adhere to standards, security practices and regulatory requirements.
• Document designs, standards and best practices.
• Troubleshoot complex design issues during implementation.
• Stay current with emerging IP networking technologies and trends.

Skills

IP routing protocols

MPLS

Network architecture

SDN/NFV

Traffic engineering

Network security

Cloud networking

Network modeling

Analytical thinking

Stakeholder influence

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering

Tools

Network modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in telecommunications infrastructure, is seeking an exceptional Principal IP Network Designer to join their esteemed technical team in Sandton, Gauteng . This senior position requires a visionary individual responsible for the end-to-end design of complex IP networks that form the backbone of our services. You will architect cutting-edge solutions, drive innovation, and ensure the scalability, resilience, and security of our network infrastructure. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in IP routing, network architecture, and a proven ability to translate intricate business requirements into robust, future-proof network designs. Join us in shaping the future of connectivity from our strategic location in Sandton, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design of complex IP networks, including routing, switching, MPLS, and security frameworks.
• Develop high-level and low-level network designs, encompassing topology, capacity planning, and traffic engineering.
• Evaluate and select appropriate network technologies and vendor solutions to meet business objectives.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and product management teams to ensure designs are implementable and meet service level agreements (SLAs).
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior network engineers and designers.
• Conduct feasibility studies, proof-of-concepts, and performance analysis for proposed network designs.
• Ensure network designs adhere to industry standards, security best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Document network designs, standards, and best practices comprehensively.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex network design issues during implementation phases.
• Stay abreast of emerging IP networking technologies and industry trends.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in IP network design and architecture, with a strong emphasis on service provider or large enterprise environments.
• Expert-level knowledge of IP routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, IS-IS), MPLS, segment routing, and traffic engineering techniques.
• Deep understanding of network security principles, including firewall design, VPNs, and DDoS mitigation.
• Proven experience with network virtualization technologies (e.g., SDN, NFV) and cloud networking.
• Proficiency in network modeling and simulation tools.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large-scale network design projects.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., CCIE R&S/SP, JNCIE-SP) are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive remuneration package, comprehensive executive health benefits, performance bonuses, and extensive opportunities for professional development and attending international conferences.
• This hybrid role offers a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Become an integral part of a leading telecommunications company renowned for its innovation and commitment to excellence.
• The role is based in the financial heart of Sandton, Gauteng .