Remote Principal Software Architect

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Software Architect for a fully remote role across South Africa. You will define the architectural vision for our core platform, design scalable, high-performance systems, and lead diverse development teams to deliver robust software solutions.

You will shape engineering standards, collaborate with product management, and mentor engineers. A strong background in distributed systems, cloud platforms, and modern development practices is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 12+ years of software development experience, with at least 5 years in a senior architectural role.
• Proven experience designing and building complex, high-traffic, distributed systems.
• Expertise in multiple programming languages (e.g., Java, C#, Python, Go) and deep understanding of design patterns.
• Strong knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with database technologies (SQL, NoSQL) and data architecture.
• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and CI/CD pipelines.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities, particularly in remote settings.
• A passion for clean code, performance optimization, and robust engineering.

Responsibilities

• Define and champion the overall software architecture vision and strategy for the company's products.
• Design and develop scalable, reliable, and maintainable software systems and services.
• Set technical standards, best practices, and architectural guidelines for development teams.
• Collaborate with product management and engineering leads to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Evaluate and select appropriate technologies, frameworks, and tools for development.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to software engineers and architects.
• Conduct code reviews, architectural reviews, and performance analysis to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks and architectural debt.
• Drive the adoption of new technologies and methodologies, fostering innovation.
• Contribute to the development of APIs, data models, and system integrations.

Skills

Java

C#

Python

Go

Design patterns

Education

Master's degree or PhD in CS/Engineering or equivalent

Tools

AWS

Azure

GCP

Docker

Kubernetes

SQL

NoSQL

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a rapidly growing innovator in the SaaS space, seeking a Principal Software Architect to lead the design and evolution of its core platform. This is a fully remote role, open to candidates across South Africa, empowering you to work from your preferred location. You will be instrumental in defining the technical vision, setting architectural standards, and guiding development teams to build robust, scalable, and high-performance software solutions. The ideal candidate possesses a wealth of experience in complex system design, modern software development methodologies, and a passion for technological excellence. Join us to make a significant impact on our product's future and contribute to a culture of innovation in a remote-first organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and champion the overall software architecture vision and strategy for the company's products.
• Design and develop scalable, reliable, and maintainable software systems and services.
• Set technical standards, best practices, and architectural guidelines for development teams.
• Collaborate with product management and engineering leads to translate business requirements into technical solutions.
• Evaluate and select appropriate technologies, frameworks, and tools for development.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to software engineers and architects.
• Conduct code reviews, architectural reviews, and performance analysis to ensure quality and efficiency.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks and architectural debt.
• Drive the adoption of new technologies and methodologies, fostering innovation.
• Contribute to the development of APIs, data models, and system integrations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 12+ years of experience in software development, with at least 5 years in a senior architectural role.
• Proven experience designing and building complex, high-traffic, distributed systems.
• Expertise in multiple programming languages (e.g., Java, C#, Python, Go) and deep understanding of design patterns.
• Strong knowledge of cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Experience with database technologies (SQL, NoSQL) and data architecture.
• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and CI/CD pipelines.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities, particularly in remote settings.
• A passion for clean code, performance optimization, and robust engineering.

Benefits

• An executive annual salary of R, recognizing your extensive experience and leadership.
• Fully remote working arrangement, providing ultimate flexibility and autonomy.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, including training budgets and conference attendance.
• Employee stock options and performance-based bonuses.
• A vibrant and supportive remote team culture that values collaboration and innovation.
• Access to cutting-edge development tools and technologies.