Senior Specialist: Software Architect

 

When it comes to putting people first, we're number 1. 

The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa. 
Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2025.

Why join Vodacom:

 

• Shape Africa’s leading AI-powered TechCo transformation.
• Architect impactful solutions serving millions of customers.
• Work with cutting-edge technologies in cloud, AI/ML, data and across the SDLC.
• Be part of a purpose-driven, inclusive, and growth-oriented organization.

 

We are passionate about exceeding customer expectations and are truly Customer Obsessed—we work relentlessly to understand our customers, view decisions through their eyes, and take personal accountability for their experience.

Role Purpose/Business Unit:

 

We are looking for a Senior Specialist: Software Architect to join our Technology team. This G Band role is responsible for defining and driving the architectural vision for new and existing products and shared microservices, ensuring alignment with enterprise architecture principles, technology strategy, and long-term business objectives.

Your responsibilities will include:

 

• Architecture & Solution Design
  Develop and maintain software architecture frameworks. Design scalable, secure solutions aligned with enterprise standards and oversee implementation across projects.

 

• Project Oversight & R&D
  Lead research into emerging technologies and methodologies. Oversee project execution to ensure architectural alignment and technical excellence.

 

• Compliance & Standards
  Define and maintain guiderails, standards, and policies for software architecture and SDLC practices. Ensure compliance with enterprise and regulatory requirements.

 

• DevSecOps Integration
  Contribute to the DevSecOps strategy across the SDLC. Embed security into architectural designs and development workflows.

 

• Technical Leadership
  Make project-specific design decisions, enforce coding standards, and guide technical teams. Conduct code reviews to ensure quality and consistency.

 

• Architecture Documentation
  Create architecture and design diagrams using C4, UML, BPMN, and other frameworks. Document policies and standards to support development practices.

 

• Problem Solving & Conflict Resolution
  Apply strong analytical skills to resolve technical challenges. Manage and resolve team or stakeholder conflicts constructively.

 

• Prioritisation & Critical Thinking
  Balance multiple priorities effectively. Use creative and critical thinking to develop innovative, business-aligned solutions.

 

• Prototyping & Innovation
  Build prototypes to validate architectural concepts and explore new technologies, ensuring feasibility and alignment with business goals.

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

 

• Matric / Grade 12 (essential)
• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Engineering (essential)
• Cloud development certification (e.g. AWS Certified Developer) is advantageous
• 5+ years’ experience in software development and architecture
• Experience with agile methodologies (e.g. SAFe, Scrum, Kanban, XP)
• Experience in cloud-native environments and infrastructure automation
• Exposure to Big Data, analytics, and UX principles is a plus
• Involvement in defining high-level SDLC strategies and frameworks, including security considerations
• Familiarity with TMForum and Open Digital Architecture (ODA) standards is advantageous
• Strong understanding of AI and how to apply it effectively in software architecture and solution design

 

Core Competencies & Technical Skills

 

Technological Proficiency

• Proficient in a wide range of technologies and frameworks, with the ability to quickly learn and adapt. Skilled in interpreting architecture diagrams and software designs.

Development Frameworks & Methodologies

• Familiar with API development, architectural patterns, software patterns, and various development methodologies.

Advanced System Design

• Experienced in crafting resilient, scalable systems and making architecture decisions that balance technical and business needs.
• Technical Expertise & Innovation
• Proficient in multiple programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C#) and development frameworks. Able to integrate new technologies to drive innovation.

Cloud Computing

• Skilled in designing and managing cloud-based solutions using AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.

DevOps & Continuous Delivery

• Experienced with DevOps tools and practices (e.g., Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes), including CI/CD pipeline implementation.

Security Awareness & Compliance

• Knowledgeable in security best practices and compliance requirements, with experience embedding security into architecture.

 

AI & Machine Learning

• Understanding of AI/ML principles and ability to incorporate them into software architectures.

Microservices Architecture

• Skilled in designing and implementing microservices-based architectures, including containerization and orchestration.

API Design & Management

• Proficient in designing secure, scalable, and maintainable APIs.

Database Management

• Experience with both SQL and NoSQL databases, including schema design and performance optimization.

Performance Optimisation

• Capable of identifying and resolving performance bottlenecks, and implementing tuning strategies.

We make an impact by offering:

 

• Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies

 

 

Closing date for Applications: 21 July 2025. 

The base location for this role is Vodacom Midrand Campus. 

 

 

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.
Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.