Principal Network Architect

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Generous retirement savings plan

Relocation assistance, if applicable

Professional growth through advanced培训

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng is seeking a Principal Network Architect to lead the design and implementation of complex network infrastructures. Based in Soweto, the role focuses on scalable, secure, and high-performance networks across enterprise, data center, and cloud environments.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in network engineering/architecture, with 5+ in a senior or principal role, and strong experience with WAN/LAN/Wi‑Fi, cloud networking, SDN/NFV, and automation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Master's degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal architect role.
• Proven experience designing and implementing large-scale enterprise networks (WAN, LAN, Wi-Fi).
• Deep understanding of TCP/IP, routing (BGP, OSPF), switching, and security (firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
• Cloud networking concepts and multi-cloud connectivity (AWS VPC, Azure VNet, GCP Networking).
• Experience with SDN/NFV, network virtualization, and automation/scripting (Python, Ansible).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder influence at all levels.
• Relevant certifications such as CCIE, CISSP are desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and architect scalable, secure network solutions across enterprise, data center, and cloud environments.
• Maintain architecture documentation, diagrams, standards, and best practices.
• Evaluate and select new network technologies, protocols, and hardware/software solutions.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations for successful deployment of designs.
• Provide high-level technical guidance and mentorship to network teams.
• Analyze performance metrics and develop optimization and capacity strategies.
• Ensure designs adhere to security policies and compliance requirements.
• Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering/IT

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Python scripting

Ansible

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading telecommunications and technology provider, is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Principal Network Architect to lead the design and implementation of complex network infrastructures. This senior role, based in Soweto, Gauteng , is pivotal in defining the future architecture of our network, ensuring scalability, security, and optimal performance to meet evolving business needs. The ideal candidate will possess extensive expertise in enterprise networking, cloud connectivity, and emerging network technologies. You will be instrumental in shaping our network strategy and driving innovation across the organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and architect robust, scalable, and secure network solutions across enterprise, data center, and cloud environments.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive network architecture documentation, including diagrams, standards, and best practices.
• Lead the evaluation and selection of new network technologies, protocols, and hardware/software solutions.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to ensure the successful implementation and deployment of network designs.
• Provide high-level technical guidance and mentorship to network engineers and architects.
• Analyze network performance metrics, identify potential issues, and develop strategies for optimization and capacity planning.
• Ensure network designs adhere to security policies and compliance requirements.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies (e.g., SDN, NFV, 5G), and competitor landscapes.
• Develop long-term network roadmaps aligned with business objectives and technological advancements.
• Act as a subject matter expert on complex network-related issues and provide technical leadership in cross-functional projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Master's degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture, with at least 5 years in a senior or principal architect role.
• Proven experience designing and implementing large-scale enterprise networks, including WAN, LAN, and Wi-Fi.
• Deep understanding of TCP/IP, routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching technologies, and network security principles (firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS).
• Expertise in cloud networking concepts and multi-cloud connectivity solutions (e.g., AWS VPC, Azure VNet, GCP Networking).
• Experience with network virtualization, Software-Defined Networking (SDN), and Network Function Virtualization (NFV).
• Familiarity with network automation and scripting (e.g., Python, Ansible).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Relevant industry certifications such as CCIE, CISSP, or equivalent are highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, along with substantial performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive benefits program.
• This includes top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement savings plan, and relocation assistance if applicable.
• Employees benefit from significant opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training, certifications, and participation in industry conferences.
• This remote role provides exceptional flexibility and work-life balance.

Join a critical team in Soweto, Gauteng , and shape the future of our advanced network infrastructure.