Network Architect – South Africa at West Indian Ocean Cable Company (WIOCC)

Job Objective

• The Network Architect will be responsible for designing, planning and implementing advanced transmission network solutions that meet organisational and customer needs. This role focuses on ensuring the reliability, scalability and efficiency of transmission systems, driving innovation and aligning network architecture with business objectives and industry advancements. The ideal candidate will deliver cutting-edge solutions to support seamless connectivity and enhance overall network performance.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and design scalable, efficient and high-performing telecommunication transmission networks.
• Create detailed architecture plans, network diagrams and technical specifications
• Prepare comprehensive design documentation, including network architecture, workflows and technical guidelines
• Develop budgets and Bill of Materials (BOMs) for proposed network designs and implementations
• Oversee the deployment and integration of transmission systems
• Collaborate with engineering teams to ensure seamless implementation and adherence to design specifications
• Monitor and analyse network performance to identify and address bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or vulnerabilities
• Propose and implement solutions to improve network reliability, latency, and throughput
• Research emerging technologies and industry trends to integrate cutting-edge solutions into the network
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot projects to assess new transmission technologies
• Stage, lab, test, install and bring into service equipment, follow standards and coach others to become competent
• Assess current network capacity and forecast future requirements based on business growth and technological advancements
• Design networks that support scalability and flexibility for future expansion
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulatory requirements and organisational policies
• Maintain documentation of network designs, processes and updates
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including operations, engineering and project management, to align network architecture with organisational goals
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to team members
• Identify potential risks to the network and implement measures to mitigate them
• Ensure robust security protocols are integrated into the transmission network architecture
• Evaluate and manage relationships with vendors and suppliers for transmission network hardware and software
• Oversee procurement and lifecycle management of network components
• Manage spare parts inventory, ensuring sufficient spares are available to support network operations across the region
• Serve as an escalation point for complex transmission network issues
• Provide expertise in diagnosing and resolving critical network problems promptly

Minimum Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent, masters preferred) in a technical field

Experience & Skills: 

• Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in designing and implementing telecommunication transmission networks, including microwave, optical and wireless systems
• Proven track record in network architecture and engineering roles within the telecommunications industry
• Hands-on experience with transmission technologies, such as DWDM, SDH/SONET, MPLS, and Ethernet
• Expertise in capacity planning, network optimisation and performance management
• Experience in preparing technical documentation, budgets and Bill of Materials (BOMs)
• Familiarity with spares management and ensuring inventory sufficiency across a region
• Prior experience in vendor evaluation, procurement and lifecycle management of network components
• Knowledge of industry standards, regulatory requirements and compliance best practices in telecommunications
• Strong understanding of telecommunications transmission technologies
• Proficiency in network design tools and software, such as Visio or similar platforms
• Competence in troubleshooting complex network issues and performing root cause analysis
• Knowledge of network protocols and risk management strategies
• Effective written and verbal communication skills evidenced by work history and accomplishments
• Excellent communications and soft skills, including the ability to listen to and summarise and concisely share key information
• Must use B/OSS tools effectively to record information accurately and concisely in a timely manner
• Demonstrate ability to manage multiple priorities and solve problems in a fast-paced environment

Attributes

• Client focused, relationship builder
• Integrity, honest with high ethical standards, Boundless, passionate and flexible
• Personal excellence, accuracy, attention to detail and innovative
• Collaborative, achieve results through teamwork and partnerships
• Strong analytical skills and able to collate and interpret data from various sources
• Good English language communicator with a natural aptitude for dealing with people
• Excellent network diagnostic and problem-solving skills