Principal Security Architect - Network Security

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive medical coverage

Retirement contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a Principal Security Architect to lead design and implementation of advanced network security strategies for a large enterprise.

The role focuses on security architectures, threat modeling, policy development, and technical leadership across security engineering teams to safeguard critical network infrastructure while aligning with regulatory standards.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in CS or Information Security required.
• 10+ years in information security with 5+ years in network security.
• Experience designing complex network security for large enterprises.
• Strong knowledge of firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, NAC, WAFs, and DDoS mitigation.
• Experience with AWS/Azure and security frameworks (NIST, ISO 27001).

Responsibilities

• Architect, design, and implement scalable network security solutions.
• Define security standards, policies, and procedures for network infra.
• Lead security reviews and mentor security teams.
• Develop threat models and conduct risk assessments for network threats.
• Ensure compliance with security regulations and respond to incidents.

Skills

Threat modeling

Security architecture

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Incident response

Cloud security (AWS/Azure)

Education

Master's degree in CS/InfoSec

CISSP-ISSAP

CCIE Security

Tools

Firewalls

IDS/IPS

NAC

VPNs

WAFs

DDoS mitigation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial solutions, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Security Architect to lead the design and implementation of advanced network security strategies. This senior role, based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , will be instrumental in safeguarding our client's extensive network infrastructure against sophisticated cyber threats. You will be responsible for developing comprehensive security blueprints, defining security policies, and providing technical leadership to security engineering teams. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in network security technologies, threat modeling, and security architecture principles, with a proven track record of protecting large-scale enterprise networks. This is a critical leadership position with significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Architect, design, and implement robust and scalable network security solutions across the enterprise.
• Develop and maintain the organization's network security strategy and roadmap.
• Define security standards, policies, and procedures for network infrastructure.
• Evaluate and recommend new network security technologies and best practices.
• Lead security reviews for network infrastructure projects and changes.
• Develop threat models and conduct risk assessments for network-related threats.
• Provide expert guidance and technical leadership to network and security engineering teams.
• Oversee the implementation and operation of security controls such as firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, and NAC.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure security is integrated into all network operations.
• Mentor junior security architects and engineers, fostering a culture of security excellence.
• Ensure compliance with relevant security regulations and standards.
• Respond to and manage significant network security incidents.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or a related engineering discipline; advanced security certifications (e.g., CISSP-ISSAP, CCIE Security) are highly desirable.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in information security, with at least 5 years focused on network security architecture.
• Extensive experience designing and implementing complex network security solutions for large enterprises.
• Deep understanding of network protocols, routing, switching, and various security technologies (firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, NAC, WAFs, DDoS mitigation).
• Proven experience with security best practices in both on-premises and cloud environments (AWS, Azure).
• Familiarity with security frameworks such as NIST, ISO 27001, and industry-specific regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Experience with security monitoring, logging, and incident response related to network security.
• Ability to translate complex business requirements into secure and effective technical solutions.

Benefits

Our client offers an industry-leading salary and a comprehensive executive benefits package, including executive medical coverage, generous retirement contributions, and performance-based bonuses. We provide significant opportunities for career advancement and professional development, including executive training programs and conference attendance. This role is based at our strategic facility in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , with a flexible hybrid work arrangement. You will be part of a forward-thinking team driving critical security initiatives. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment that values innovation and expertise.