Senior Network Architect (Remote)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive pay & bonus

Private health insurance

Stock options

Dev budget

Unlimited PTO

Remote work tech

Flexible hours

Shape network future

Retirement plan

Performance raises

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Network Architect to lead strategic design, planning, and evolution of core network infrastructure in a remote-first role. You will craft scalable, secure, and resilient solutions across global service offerings and drive innovation across networking domains.

The role requires extensive experience with large-scale networks, strong routing and security expertise, and the ability to mentor junior engineers while influencing cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in network engineering and architecture.
• Extensive experience designing large-scale enterprise or service provider networks.
• Proficiency with routing protocols (BGP/OSPF/IS-IS), MPLS and VPNs.

Responsibilities

• Design high-level and low-level network architectures for new services and upgrades.
• Evaluate and recommend new network technologies, protocols and vendors.
• Create detailed network designs with IP schemes and routing strategies.

Skills

BGP/OSPF/IS-IS

MPLS/VPNs

Network security

Cloud networking

TCP/IP—DNS—DHCP

Leadership

Executive communication

Automation mindset

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in CS/Engineering

CCIE/JNCIE certification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forefront innovator in the telecommunications sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Network Architect to join their fully remote team. This pivotal role is responsible for the strategic design, planning, and evolution of our client's core network infrastructure. You will leverage your extensive expertise to develop scalable, resilient, and secure network solutions that underpin our advanced service offerings. This is a remote-first position, designed to attract top talent and foster a collaborative global team. The ideal candidate will have a visionary approach, coupled with deep technical knowledge across diverse networking domains. Your work will directly influence the future direction and capabilities of our network, ensuring we remain at the cutting edge of the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop high-level and low-level network architectures for new services and infrastructure upgrades.
• Evaluate and recommend new network technologies, protocols, and vendor solutions.
• Create detailed network designs, including logical and physical diagrams, IP addressing schemes, and routing strategies.
• Lead the technical aspects of network planning, capacity management, and performance optimization.
• Develop and maintain network standards, best practices, and documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and security teams to ensure successful implementation and operation of network designs.
• Conduct technical feasibility studies and provide architectural guidance for complex projects.
• Identify opportunities for network automation and implement solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior network engineers and architects.
• Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and competitive landscapes.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in network engineering and architecture.
• Extensive experience designing and implementing large-scale enterprise or service provider networks.
• Deep understanding of routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, IS-IS), MPLS, VPNs, and traffic engineering.
• Proficiency in network security principles, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and access control.
• Experience with cloud networking (AWS, Azure, GCP) and virtualization technologies.
• Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and other core internet protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Outstanding communication and presentation abilities, with experience presenting to technical and executive audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical initiatives and influence cross-functional teams.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; relevant certifications (e.g., CCIE, JNCIE) are highly advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive private health insurance coverage.
• Generous stock options or equity grants.
• Significant professional development budget and training opportunities.
• Unlimited paid time off policy.
• State-of-the‑art remote working technology and support.
• Flexible working hours to promote work‑life balance.
• Opportunity to shape the future of a leading telecommunications network.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Annual performance‑based raises and recognition awards.