Network Architect

About Reflex

Established in 2000 in South Africa, Reflex has evolved from modest origins to become a distinguished provider of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions. We specialise in delivering innovative ICT solutions across various industries, earning a sterling reputation for our excellence in the retail sector and beyond. With a robust network of partnerships, we pride ourselves on our ability to swiftly address the technological needs of our clients.

Our portfolio of ICT solutions spans various industries. Reflex Carrier understands what is needed to build, manage, and operate complex backbone networks simply. Our solutions are tailored for Fibre Network Operators (FNO), Internet Service Providers (ISPs), and those looking for comprehensive Managed Connectivity solutions.

On the other hand, our Enterprise Solutions take the complexity out of technology, allowing you to focus on what you do best. We provide seamless, high-performance solutions for connectivity, communications, workplace management, cloud, and cybersecurity services.

Together, both divisions reflect our core values of expertise, clarity, and client-centricity. We take pride in being large enough to offer extensive support while remaining small enough to provide personalised service. At Reflex, our clients are at the centre of everything we do, and we’re committed to delivering reliable, jargon-free solutions that drive your success.

About the role

The Network Architect is a strategic technical role responsible for the design, implementation, and optimisation of the organisation’s network infrastructure. The role ensures that network services effectively support business operations, applications, and service delivery.

Working closely with cross-functional teams, the Network Architect develops solutions that are:

• Scalable to meet evolving business needs.
• Resilient to support continuity and performance.
• Secure and aligned with current and future business requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Network Architecture Design:
  • Design and develop scalable, high-performance network architectures that meet the current and future needs of the organization.
  • Evaluate business requirements, application dependencies, and performance objectives to define network topologies, protocols, and technologies.
• Network Infrastructure Planning:
  • Collaborate with stakeholders, project teams, and IT leaders to plan and prioritize network infrastructure initiatives and investments.
  • Assess existing network capabilities, identify gaps and opportunities, and develop strategic roadmaps for network modernization and expansion.
• Technology Evaluation and Selection:
  • Research, evaluate, and recommend networking technologies, products, and solutions to support business objectives and technical requirements.
  • Assess vendor capabilities, product features, and industry trends to make informed technology decisions.
• Capacity Planning and Performance Optimisation:
  • Conduct capacity planning exercises to forecast network bandwidth, throughput, and latency requirements.
  • Perform performance tuning, optimization, and troubleshooting activities to enhance network reliability, responsiveness, and efficiency.
• Security and Compliance:
  • Implement security best practices and standards to protect network infrastructure from unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyber threats.
  • Define network security policies, access controls, and encryption mechanisms to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Network Monitoring and Management:
  • Deploy network monitoring tools and systems to proactively monitor network performance, availability, and security incidents.
  • Establish monitoring thresholds, alerts, and response procedures to identify and resolve network issues in a timely manner.
• Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity:
  • Design and implement redundant and resilient network architectures to ensure high availability and business continuity.
  • Develop disaster recovery plans, failover strategies, and recovery procedures to mitigate the impact of network outages and disruptions.
• Vendor Management and Relationship:
  • Manage relationships with network equipment vendors, service providers, and technology partners.
  • Negotiate contracts, service level agreements (SLAs), and pricing terms to optimize value and ensure alignment with business requirements.
• Documentation and Knowledge Management:
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation of network designs, configurations, and operational procedures.
  • Create network diagrams, architecture blueprints, and technical specifications to facilitate knowledge transfer and collaboration among team members.
• Continuous Improvement and Innovation:
  • Stay abreast of emerging networking trends, standards, and best practices.
  • Evaluate new technologies, tools, and methodologies to drive innovation, efficiency, and effectiveness in network design and operations.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's and/or master’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, or related field.
• At least 8+ years of extensive experience in network engineering, architecture, and operations, with a focus on designing and implementing enterprise-scale network infrastructures.
• In-depth knowledge of networking principles, protocols, and technologies, including TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, BGP, ISIS, MPLS, VLANs, VXLAN, VPNs, SD-WAN, and QoS.
• Hands-on experience with GPON technologies (Huawei and/or Nokia knowledge is an added advantage).
• Experience in an ISP environment, including Internet routing, CGNAT, and RPKI.
  
• Knowledge of transmission technologies (DWDM, ADM, ROADM).
• Hands-on experience with network equipment and platforms from leading vendors (e.g., Huawei, Juniper, Nokia, Fortinet, Mikrotik).
• Proficiency in network design and simulation tools (e.g. Wireshark) and network management platforms (e.g., IRIS, Netbox).
• Understanding of network security concepts, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), encryption protocols, and access control lists (ACLs).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with the ability to troubleshoot complex network issues and optimize network performance.
• Relevant certifications (e.g., HCIP/HCIE, CCNP/CCIE, JNCP/JNCIE) and participation in industry forums, conferences, and communities of practice are highly desirable.

The Network Architect plays a critical role in shaping the design, performance, and security of the organisation’s network infrastructure. By leveraging technical expertise, strategic planning, and collaborative partnerships, this role enables seamless connectivity, communication, and collaboration across the enterprise, driving business agility, innovation, and growth.