Principal Network Architect

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Remote work from anywhere

Professional development sponsorship

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Principal Network Architect to design and oversee secure, high-performance telecommunications networks. You will guide SDN/NFV, 5G, cloud integration, and edge computing, while mentoring a team of engineers.

The role emphasizes strategic roadmaps, governance, and collaboration with product and business units to drive innovation across a global footprint. Remote work is supported while Johannesburg-based operations remain key.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in a relevant field; PhD preferred.
• 12+ years in network design/architecture with 5+ years in a principal or lead architect role.
• Deep expertise in protocols, wireless, SDN/NFV, and cloud networking.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and evolution of scalable, resilient network architectures.
• Develop roadmaps for 5G, IoT, cloud, and edge computing adoption.
• Define standards, governance, and best practices for networks.
• Evaluate and select new technologies, vendors, and solutions.
• Provide technical leadership to network engineering and operations teams.
• Conduct feasibility studies and PoCs for new designs.
• Ensure networks meet performance, availability, and security requirements.
• Collaborate with product and business units to align network with objectives.
• Stay updated on industry trends and competitive landscape.
• Document architectures, designs, and configurations clearly.
• Mentor junior engineers and architects.

Skills

TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS

5G and LTE

SDN/NFV

Cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP)

Network security for infrastructures

Leadership & mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or related field

PhD is a plus

Tools

CCDE

JNCIE-SP

CCNP/CCIE

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in telecommunications infrastructure, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Network Architect to join their cutting-edge technology division. This senior role, based in the bustling metropolis of Johannesburg, Gauteng , is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of complex, high-performance, and secure telecommunications networks. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of current and emerging network technologies, including 5G, SDN/NFV, cloud networking, and cybersecurity. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of our network strategy, leading architectural initiatives, and mentoring a team of highly skilled network engineers. This is an unparalleled opportunity to drive innovation and impact millions of users worldwide, working within a forward-thinking organization committed to technological advancement in the dynamic African market. This position is fully remote, allowing you to work from anywhere while contributing to our Johannesburg-based operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and evolution of scalable, resilient, and secure telecommunications network architectures.
• Develop strategic roadmaps for network technology adoption, including 5G, IoT, cloud integration, and edge computing.
• Define network standards, best practices, and governance frameworks.
• Evaluate and select new network technologies, vendors, and solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and architectural guidance to network engineering and operations teams.
• Conduct feasibility studies, proof-of-concepts, and performance analyses for new network designs.
• Ensure network designs meet stringent performance, availability, and security requirements.
• Collaborate with product development and business units to align network architecture with business objectives.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscape.
• Document network architectures, designs, and configurations clearly and comprehensively.
• Mentor junior network engineers and architects, fostering technical growth within the team.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field; PhD is a plus.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in network design, architecture, and engineering, with at least 5 years in a principal or lead architect role.
• Deep expertise in network protocols (TCP/IP, BGP, OSPF, MPLS), routing, switching, and load balancing.
• Extensive knowledge of wireless technologies (LTE, 5G NR), optical networking, and data center networking.
• Proven experience with Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), and cloud networking platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles and network security best practices.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing complex network strategies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Relevant industry certificates (e.g., CCDE, JNCIE-SP, CCNP/CCIE) are highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive-level compensation package, including a significant annual bonus, generous stock options, and a comprehensive benefits program. This includes top-tier health insurance, a substantial retirement plan, and extensive opportunities for professional development, including sponsoring advanced certifications and conference attendance. As a fully remote position, you will enjoy the flexibility and autonomy to work from your preferred location, supported by excellent collaboration tools and a strong virtual team culture. Join a pioneering organization at the forefront of telecommunications innovation, shaping the future of connectivity from Johannesburg .