Principal Security Architect - Network Security Focus

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Remote work flexibility

Home office stipend

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Security Architect to lead global secure network design across on-premises and cloud environments. You will craft and enforce network security standards, guide threat modeling, and drive secure architectural decisions with senior stakeholders.

The role requires 10+ years in network security, strong TCP/IP expertise, and hands-on experience with cloud networks and security tooling. Remote work from SA locations supported, with competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 10+ years of experience in network security engineering/architecture.
• Proven track record designing and implementing large-scale secure networks.
• Deep TCP/IP networking, routing, switching, and segmentation knowledge.
• Experience with perimeter security technologies and cloud networking (AWS/Azure/GCP).
• Automation scripting for security tasks (Python, Ansible).
• Strong knowledge of zero-trust, micro-segmentation, and modern security paradigms.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of secure network infrastructure globally across traditional and cloud environments.
• Develop and maintain network security strategies, standards, and roadmaps.
• Define security requirements for new network deployments and technologies.
• Evaluate network security technologies such as firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, NAC, WAFs.
• Perform threat modeling and risk assessments for architectures.
• Provide mentorship to network engineering and security operations teams.

Skills

Network security

Threat modeling

Zero-trust

Micro-segmentation

Cloud security

Scripting

Architectural design

Leadership

Executive communication

Education

Master's degree

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

Python

Ansible

WAF/IDS/IPS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in industrial automation, is seeking a distinguished Principal Security Architect with a specialized focus on Network Security to join their remote team. This is a high-impact role responsible for defining, designing, and overseeing the implementation of secure network architectures across the organization's global operations. You will be instrumental in developing and enforcing robust network security strategies that protect against evolving cyber threats, ensuring the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of critical systems and data. The ideal candidate possesses deep technical expertise in network security principles, threat modeling, and secure design patterns, coupled with a visionary approach to architectural strategy. This position offers the unique opportunity to work remotely from Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal or other approved locations, driving significant security initiatives on a global scale. You will lead the charge in architecting resilient and secure network infrastructures that support complex business objectives. Our client values innovation, expertise, and a proactive stance on cybersecurity, making this a premier opportunity for a seasoned security professional.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and architecture of secure network infrastructure globally, encompassing both traditional and cloud environments.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive network security strategies, standards, and roadmaps.
• Define security requirements for new network deployments and technologies, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
• Evaluate and recommend network security technologies, including firewalls, IDS/IPS, VPNs, NAC, WAFs, and emerging solutions.
• Perform threat modeling and risk assessments for network architectures to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to network engineering and security operations teams.
• Develop secure configurations and hardening guidelines for network devices and services.
• Oversee the integration of security controls within the network infrastructure lifecycle.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure secure network operations and incident response readiness.
• Stay abreast of the latest network security threats, vulnerabilities, and best practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or a related field; or equivalent practical experience.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in network security engineering and architecture.
• Proven track record in designing and implementing complex, large-scale secure network infrastructures.
• Deep expertise in TCP/IP networking, routing protocols, switching, and network segmentation.
• Extensive experience with perimeter security technologies (firewalls, IDS/IPS), endpoint security, and data loss prevention (DLP).
• Proficiency in securing cloud networks (AWS, Azure, GCP) and hybrid environments.
• Experience with scripting and automation for network security tasks (e.g., Python, Ansible).
• Strong understanding of zero-trust architectures, micro-segmentation, and modern security paradigms.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, capable of influencing technical and executive stakeholders.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Full remote work flexibility, allowing you to work from Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal or elsewhere.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous annual leave and flexible working hours.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, certifications, and attending industry conferences.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Company-provided equipment and home office stipend.
• Opportunity to shape the global security architecture of a leading enterprise.
• Collaborative and innovative work culture.
• Performance-based bonuses and recognition programs.