Senior Blockchain Architect

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Long-term incentives

Health insurance

Retirement planning

Generous paid leave

Learning & development opportunities

Conference attendance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Blockchain Architect in Bloemfontein to shape our blockchain strategy and oversee secure, scalable deployments across the organization. The role combines design leadership with hands-on guidance to engineering teams and cross-functional stakeholders.

You will evaluate platforms, implement best practices, and drive architecture decisions for enterprise solutions in a hybrid work setting. A strong background in distributed ledgers and cryptography is essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years in software architecture and system design with 5+ years in blockchain.
• Proven enterprise blockchain delivery experience (Hyperledger, Ethereum, or Corda).

Responsibilities

• Design high-level architectural strategies for blockchain networks and dApps.
• Evaluate platforms, consensus algorithms, and cryptographic techniques.
• Define standards for blockchain development, security, and governance.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to translate requirements into solutions.
• Lead technical design and integration with existing enterprise systems.
• Provide mentorship to development teams and guide implementation.
• Assess risks to ensure scalability, reliability, and security of blockchain solutions.
• Stay updated on blockchain trends and emerging DL technologies.
• Develop architectural diagrams, specifications, and roadmaps.
• Conduct PoCs to evaluate new blockchain tech and applications.

Skills

Blockchain architecture

Distributed ledger

Smart contracts

Cloud platforms

Docker/Kubernetes

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Security best practices

Education

Master's degree in Computer Science or Engineering

Tools

Hyperledger Fabric

Ethereum Enterprise

R3 Corda

AWS

Azure

GCP

Docker

Kubernetes

Job description

About the Role Our client, a financial technology leader, is looking for a Senior Blockchain Architect to join their innovative team in **Bloemfontein, Free State**. This role is pivotal in shaping the future of our client's blockchain strategy and infrastructure. You will be responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of secure, scalable, and efficient blockchain solutions that align with business objectives. This hybrid position allows for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility, fostering a productive and balanced work environment in **Bloemfontein**.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement high-level architectural strategies for blockchain networks and decentralized applications (dApps).
• Evaluate and select appropriate blockchain platforms, consensus algorithms, and cryptographic techniques.
• Define standards and best practices for blockchain development, security, and governance.
• Collaborate with business stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
• Lead the technical design and integration of blockchain solutions with existing enterprise systems.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to development teams.
• Assess and mitigate technical risks, ensuring the scalability, reliability, and security of blockchain implementations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and emerging trends in the blockchain and DLT space.
• Develop comprehensive architectural documentation, including diagrams, specifications, and roadmaps.
• Conduct proof-of-concept projects to evaluate new blockchain technologies and their potential applications.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• 8+ years of experience in software architecture and system design, with at least 5 years focused on blockchain technology.
• Proven experience architecting and delivering enterprise‑grade blockchain solutions (e.g., Hyperledger Fabric, Ethereum Enterprise, R3 Corda).
• Deep understanding of distributed ledger technologies, consensus mechanisms, and cryptography.
• Expertise in smart contract development, security best practices, and deployment strategies.
• Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and project requirements in a hybrid setting.
• Experience in the financial services sector is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including performance-based bonuses and potential long‑term incentives. Comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning options, and generous paid leave are provided. Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and attending industry conferences are a core part of the employee experience. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work arrangement in **Bloemfontein, Free State**, promoting a healthy work-life balance. Be a part of a forward‑thinking organization shaping the future of finance through innovative blockchain solutions.