Senior Systems Architect - Cloud

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Learning resources

Remote work option

Development tools

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Architect to design and oversee scalable, secure cloud-based systems across AWS, Azure, and GCP. You will lead architectural decisions, define standards, and mentor teams, while coordinating with stakeholders to translate requirements into robust solutions.

The role emphasizes microservices, containerization (Docker, Kubernetes), and IaC practices, with opportunities for remote collaboration and regional impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• 8+ years in systems architecture; 5+ years cloud experience (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Experience designing and implementing complex cloud solutions including microservices and containers (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Strong networking, security, databases, and data storage knowledge in cloud contexts.
• CI/CD experience (Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps).
• IaC tooling experience (Terraform, CloudFormation).
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
• Cloud certifications (AWS/Azure) desirable.
• Experience with distributed teams, preferably connected to Port Elizabeth tech community.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee scalable cloud architectures across AWS, Azure, and GCP.
• Define standards and best practices for cloud architecture and development.
• Lead evaluation of cloud services and third-party solutions.
• Develop architectural documentation and roadmaps.
• Collaborate with engineering to implement designs.
• Ensure secure, IaC-driven architecture and integration.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to teams.
• Stay current with cloud technologies and trends.

Skills

Cloud architecture

Microservices

CI/CD

Security

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

Terraform

CloudFormation

Jenkins

GitLab CI

Azure DevOps

Job description

About the Role

A forward-thinking technology firm located in Port Elizabeth is seeking an experienced Senior Systems Architect specializing in cloud technologies. This pivotal role will involve designing, developing, and overseeing the implementation of scalable, robust, and secure cloud-based systems and infrastructure. You will be responsible for defining architectural strategies, selecting appropriate cloud services (AWS, Azure, GCP), and ensuring seamless integration across various platforms. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of microservices architecture, containerization, CI/CD pipelines, and infrastructure as code. You will collaborate with development teams, project managers, and business stakeholders to translate requirements into effective technical solutions. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the technological future of a growing company and make a significant impact from Port Elizabeth . Our client fosters an innovative environment where architectural vision is paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and architect scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant cloud solutions on platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.
• Define technical standards, guidelines, and best practices for cloud architecture and development.
• Lead the selection and evaluation of cloud services, technologies, and third-party solutions.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive architectural documentation, including diagrams, specifications, and roadmaps.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure the successful implementation of architectural designs.
• Oversee the integration of various systems and applications within the cloud environment.
• Implement and promote Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles using tools like Terraform or CloudFormation.
• Ensure security best practices are integrated into the architecture design and implementation.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to development and operations teams.
• Evaluate and recommend new cloud technologies and trends to enhance performance and efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in systems architecture, with at least 5 years focused on cloud environments (AWS, Azure, GCP).
• Proven experience in designing and implementing complex cloud solutions, including microservices and containerization (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Strong understanding of networking, security, databases, and data storage solutions in cloud contexts.
• Expertise in CI/CD principles and tools (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps).
• Experience with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Relevant cloud certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Solutions Architect Expert) are highly desirable.
• Experience working with distributed teams, ideally with connections to Port Elizabeth 's tech community.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary with a performance-based bonus structure and potential for stock options.
• Comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement fund contribution, and ample paid time off are provided.
• Employees have access to continuous learning resources, including online courses, certifications, and opportunities to attend industry conferences.
• This role offers a remote work option, allowing flexibility for candidates within or outside of Port Elizabeth .
• State-of-the-art development tools and collaboration platforms are available.
• The company culture encourages innovation, continuous improvement, and work-life balance.