Department: Solutions Architecture / Technical Presales Reports To: Senior Solutions Architect Experience: 1-3 Years Location: Cape Town, South Africa 1. Position Overview Baraka IT Solutions is seeking a motivated and technically capable Junior Solutions Architect / Technical Presales Engineer to support the design, development and documentation of enterprise ICT solutions. The successful candidate will work under the guidance of a Senior Solutions Architect, gaining practical experience in technical presales, tender analysis, solution architecture and implementation planning, with the objective of developing into an independent Solutions Architect over 12 months. 2. Key Responsibilities Tender Analysis: Review RFPs, RFQs and technical specifications, identify requirements and prepare compliance matrices. Solution Design: Assist in developing ICT infrastructure solutions covering networking, servers, storage, virtualisation, cloud and security. Technical Documentation: Prepare technical proposals, solution descriptions, architecture diagrams and implementation methodologies. BOM Validation: Review hardware, software, licensing, subscriptions, warranties and support requirements. Implementation Planning: Develop project timelines, rollout plans, milestones, resource requirements and technical deliverables. Technical Research: Evaluate OEM technologies, product specifications, compatibility and solution alternatives. Quality Assurance: Review technical submissions for accuracy, completeness, consistency and tender compliance. Stakeholder Engagement: Coordinate with internal technical teams, OEMs, distributors and project stakeholders. 3. Minimum Requirements Qualifications and Experience Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Computer Science or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience. 3-5 years of experience in networking, IT infrastructure, systems administration or technical presales. CCNA certification or equivalent networking knowledge is advantageous. Exposure to ICT tenders, technical proposals or solution design is advantageous. Technical Knowledge Networking fundamentals: TCP/IP, VLANs, routing, switching and wireless networking. Basic understanding of servers, storage, virtualisation, cloud computing and cybersecurity. Familiarity with enterprise ICT technologies and hardware/software licensing. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Knowledge of Visio, draw.io or similar diagramming tools. 4. Essential Skills and Attributes Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent technical writing and documentation abilities. High attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to research and understand unfamiliar technologies. Good communication and organisational skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Self-motivated, proactive and willing to learn. Ability to take ownership of tasks and work independently.