Tech Lead – Cloud & Platform Engineering Mechelen, Belgium (Hybrid) Long-term freelance/contract-based opportunity (until end of 2026)We’re looking for a hands-on Tech Lead to join a large-scale, complex environment where technology plays a critical role in delivering high-impact services.This is not a people management role - you’ll act as the technical backbone of the team, working closely with architects and engineering teams to ensure high-quality, scalable, and future-proof solutions. Your RoleAs a Tech Lead, you will bridge the gap between architecture and implementation, ensuring that technical decisions are effectively translated into real-world solutions across multiple teams and vendors.You’ll operate in a multi-team, multi-vendor environment, where your ability to influence, guide, and align will be key. Key Responsibilities️ Technical Leadership & ArchitectureTranslate architectural vision into clear technical standards and guidelinesEnsure consistent and correct implementation across teamsAct as a trusted partner to Solution Architects️ Engineering ExcellenceDrive best practices around:scalabilitysecuritymaintainabilityobservabilityPerform high-level code and architecture reviews Multi-Team & Vendor CollaborationGuide and challenge external vendor teamsEnsure alignment across a complex ecosystem of teams️ Cloud & Platform EnablementSupport teams in adopting cloud platforms (AWS / GCP)Work with Kubernetes / OpenShift environmentsBridge the gap between strategy and hands-on implementation Modernisation & InnovationDrive technical improvements and modernization initiativesReduce technical debtPromote cloud-native and AI-driven solutions Stakeholder CommunicationCollaborate with Product Owners, Analysts, and senior stakeholdersNavigate a complex and sometimes political environmentCommunicate clearly and influence decisions without formal authority What We’re Looking ForMust-have:Strong experience with AWS and/or GCPSolid experience with Kubernetes or OpenShiftProven background in software architecture & system designExperience with:CI/CD pipelinesInfrastructure as CodeAPI-led and event-driven architecturesGood understanding of infrastructure (networking, security, compute, storage)Excellent communication and stakeholder management skillsAbility to influence and guide teams without direct authorityHands-on mindset (not purely advisory)Nice to have:Experience in large enterprise environmentsExposure to AI-driven solutions or innovation initiativesExperience working with external vendors / consulting firmsBackground in telecom or network architectureDutch language skills Ideal ProfileYou are a senior engineer or technical lead who:enjoys working in complex, large-scale environmentscombines deep technical expertise with strong communication skillsthrives in roles where you influence rather than manageis comfortable working across multiple teams and stakeholders Practical InfoLocation: Mechelen (hybrid – 2–3 days onsite/week)Start: ASAPDuration: Long-term (until end of 2026, extension likely)Language: English required (Dutch is a plus)