Principal Network Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work environment

Performance-based bonuses

Comprehensive health, dental, and view

Generous paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Retirement savings plan with company匹

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Network Engineer for a fully remote role in South Africa. You will design, implement, and manage highly complex, scalable network infrastructures for a leading telecommunications client, with autonomy and strategic influence.

The role requires 8+ years in network engineering, expert BGP/OSPF, MPLS, security, and hands-on Cisco/Juniper hardware. Strong scripting (Python/Ansible) and cloud networking experience are a plus.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in network engineering, with a focus on large-scale, complex networks.
• Expert-level knowledge of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching, MPLS, and traffic engineering.
• Extensive experience with enterprise-grade network hardware (Cisco, Juniper).
• Proficiency in network automation and scripting (Python, Ansible).
• Experience with cloud networking concepts is a strong plus.
• CCIE or equivalent advanced certification is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage advanced network solutions for scalability, reliability, and performance.
• Lead complex network troubleshooting efforts, identifying root causes and architecting sustainable solutions.
• Develop and maintain network standards, best practices, and documentation for complex infrastructures.
• Evaluate and integrate new network technologies and protocols to enhance capabilities.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level network engineers, sharing expertise and fostering skill development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on network-related aspects of major projects and initiatives.
• Ensure network security is maintained at the highest level through robust design and implementation.
• Analyze network performance metrics and implement optimizations for improved efficiency and user experience.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical problem solving

Strategic thinking

Cross-functional collaboration

Technical mentoring

Education

Master's degree in CS/Engineering

CCIE or equivalent

Tools

Cisco IOS

Juniper Junos

Python

Ansible

BGP

OSPF

MPLS

Traffic Engineering

Network Automation

Job description

About the Role

This is a fully remote role for a Principal Network Engineer at a leading telecommunications company. Our client is seeking an expert to design, implement, and manage highly complex and scalable network infrastructures. As a Principal Engineer, you will be at the forefront of network innovation, tackling the most challenging technical problems and guiding the technical direction for critical network projects. This position demands deep technical expertise in routing, switching, security, and network optimization, along with a strong understanding of future network trends. Working remotely from anywhere in South Africa , you will collaborate with a world-class team of engineers and architects, influencing the design and deployment of state-of-the-art network solutions for the telecoms industry . We are committed to fostering a remote-first culture that encourages innovation, continuous learning, and empowers engineers to make significant contributions. If you are passionate about network engineering and looking for a role with substantial impact and autonomy, this is an exceptional opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and manage advanced network solutions, ensuring scalability, reliability, and performance.
• Lead complex network troubleshooting efforts, identifying root causes and architecting sustainable solutions.
• Develop and maintain network standards, best practices, and documentation for complex infrastructures.
• Evaluate and integrate new network technologies and protocols to enhance capabilities.
• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level network engineers, sharing expertise and fostering skill development.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on network-related aspects of major projects and initiatives.
• Ensure network security is maintained at the highest level through robust design and implementation.
• Analyze network performance metrics and implement optimizations for improved efficiency and user experience.
• Participate in architectural reviews and provide expert technical input.
• Stay informed about the latest advancements in networking technology and telecommunications.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in network engineering, with a focus on large-scale, complex networks.
• Expert-level knowledge of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching, MPLS, and traffic engineering.
• Extensive experience with network security technologies and best practices.
• Hands-on experience with enterprise-grade network hardware (Cisco, Juniper, etc.).
• Proficiency in network automation and scripting (e.g., Python, Ansible).
• Experience with cloud networking concepts and technologies is a strong plus.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Exceptional communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• CCIE or equivalent advanced certification is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Fully remote work environment offering significant flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous paid time off and professional development opportunities.
• Opportunity to work on challenging and impactful network projects.
• A collaborative and innovative remote work culture.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Access to cutting-edge network technologies.