Principal Telecoms Network Architect

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Equity potential

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Sandton seeks a Principal Telecoms Network Architect to shape the future of the company’s network infrastructure. You will define strategy for IP, mobile, and optical domains and lead complex, scalable designs that meet evolving business needs.

The role requires extensive experience in network architecture, strategic thinking, and exceptional leadership. You will drive standards, mentor teams, and present roadmaps to executives in a global, growth-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Define and maintain the long-term network architecture vision and strategy for the organization.
• Lead the design of enterprise-wide telecommunications network solutions including IP/MPLS, SDN, NFV, 5G core, and optical transport.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies, standards, and architectural approaches to drive innovation and efficiency.
• Develop architectural principles, guidelines, and best practices for network design and implementation.
• Collaborate with senior management, engineering teams, and product management to align network strategy with business objectives.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to network engineering and design teams.
• Conduct architectural reviews and ensure adherence to design standards.
• Represent the company in technical forums and industry standardization bodies.
• Develop and present architectural proposals and roadmaps to executive leadership.
• Assess the impact of new business requirements and market trends on the network architecture.

Skills

IP routing

Mobile core 4G/5G

SDN/NFV

Cloud networking

Optical networks

Leadership

Executive communication

Vendor evaluation

Automation & orchestration

Patents advantageous

Education

MS/PhD in EE/CS/Telecom

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in telecommunications innovation, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Telecoms Network Architect to shape the future of their network infrastructure in Sandton, Gauteng . This senior role is responsible for defining the strategic direction and overall architecture of our client's next-generation networks, encompassing IP, mobile, and optical domains. You will lead the design of complex, scalable, and resilient network solutions that support evolving business needs and emerging technologies. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in network architecture, a profound understanding of industry trends, and exceptional leadership and communication skills. This is a pivotal position for an experienced architect looking to make a significant impact on a large-scale, cutting-edge network.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and maintain the long-term network architecture vision and strategy for the organization.
• Lead the design of complex, enterprise-wide telecommunications network solutions, including IP/MPLS, SDN, NFV, 5G core, and optical transport.
• Evaluate and recommend new technologies, standards, and architectural approaches to drive innovation and efficiency.
• Develop architectural principles, guidelines, and best practices for network design and implementation.
• Collaborate with senior management, engineering teams, and product management to align network strategy with business objectives.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to network engineering and design teams.
• Conduct architectural reviews and ensure adherence to design standards.
• Represent the company in technical forums and industry standardization bodies.
• Develop and present architectural proposals and roadmaps to executive leadership.
• Assess the impact of new business requirements and market trends on the network architecture.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in telecommunications network design and architecture, with at least 7 years in a principal or lead architect role.
• Deep expertise in multiple domains: IP routing and switching, mobile core (4G/5G), SDN/NFV, cloud networking, and optical networks.
• Proven track record of designing and deploying large-scale, complex, and resilient networks.
• In-depth knowledge of industry standards, protocols, and emerging technologies.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding leadership, communication, and influencing abilities, with experience presenting to executive audiences.
• Experience with vendor evaluation and selection processes.
• Familiarity with network automation and orchestration concepts.
• Published work or patents in relevant technical fields is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional remuneration package, including a highly competitive annual salary, performance bonuses, and potential for equity. Comprehensive benefits include top-tier medical aid, a generous retirement fund contribution, and extensive insurance coverage. Significant investment is made in professional development, including attendance at leading global conferences and advanced certifications. Employees work in a stimulating, forward-thinking environment. This role provides unparalleled opportunities for strategic influence and career growth within a global leader.