Senior Network Architect

Placements24; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive health insurance

Retirement planning

Performance bonuses

Professional development funding

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Network Architect to lead the design, development, and governance of our enterprise network in Pretoria. This hybrid role combines strategic planning with hands-on architecture to ensure scalable, secure, and high-availability connectivity across data centers, LAN, WAN, and cloud.

The ideal candidate will have 10+ years of progressive experience, deep understanding of routing protocols, network virtualization, and cloud networking, with strong

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture.
• Extensive knowledge of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching technologies, and network security.
• Proven experience designing and implementing large-scale, high-availability networks.
• Expertise in network virtualization, SDN, and cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP).

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the network architecture strategy, roadmaps, and standards.
• Design and document complex network solutions, including LAN, WAN, data center, and cloud connectivity.
• Evaluate and recommend new networking technologies and solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on network design principles and best practices.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to ensure successful implementation of network designs.
• Identify potential network risks and vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies.
• Conduct performance analysis and capacity planning for the network infrastructure.
• Translate business requirements into detailed technical network designs.
• Oversee the implementation of major network upgrades and projects.
• Mentor junior network engineers and architects on advanced network concepts.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Strategic thinking

Problem solving

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Computer Engineering/EE/CS

Tools

BGP

OSPF

SDN

AWS

Azure

GCP

Network monitoring tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the telecommunications infrastructure sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Network Architect to join their team in Pretoria. This is a key strategic role responsible for the design, development, and oversight of the company's complex network architecture. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our network, ensuring it is scalable, secure, and efficient to meet evolving business needs. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of advanced networking concepts, a proven ability to architect enterprise-level solutions, and excellent communication skills to liaise with technical teams and senior management. This hybrid position allows for flexibility, combining collaborative work in our Gauteng office with remote work days.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain the overall network architecture strategy, roadmaps, and standards.
• Design and document complex network solutions, including LAN, WAN, data center, and cloud connectivity.
• Evaluate and recommend new networking technologies and solutions.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance on network design principles and best practices.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to ensure the successful implementation of network designs.
• Identify potential network risks and vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies.
• Conduct performance analysis and capacity planning for the network infrastructure.
• Translate business requirements into detailed technical network designs.
• Oversee the implementation of major network upgrades and projects.
• Mentor junior network engineers and architects on advanced network concepts.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in network engineering and architecture.
• Extensive knowledge of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), switching technologies, and network security principles.
• Proven experience designing and implementing large-scale, high-availability networks.
• Expertise in network virtualization, SDN, and cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Familiarity with network monitoring, analysis, and troubleshooting tools.
• Strong understanding of IP telephony, VoIP, and other real-time communication technologies.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Relevant industry certifications (e.g., CCIE, JNCIE) are highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive-level salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including executive health insurance, retirement planning, and performance bonuses.
• You will have unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including funding for advanced certifications and industry conferences.
• The role provides exposure to cutting-edge technologies and the chance to influence strategic decisions within a dynamic telecommunications company located in Pretoria.
• This hybrid model supports a balanced professional life.