Network Engineer - Backbone

Northwood is a modern space infrastructure company bringing the benefits of space to the masses through advanced communications technology. We are building a global network of phased array ground stations that enable real-time, reliable communication for satellite missions such as national security, global connectivity, and disaster response. With a vertically integrated approach, Northwood designs, builds, and rapidly deploys scalable systems that power the next generation of space missions. If you like solving complex challenges and seeing your work deployed around the world with real impact, Northwood is the place to do it.

Role

We're building the internet for space. Help us connect it.

Northwood is deploying a global network of phased array ground stations for mission-critical government and commercial space communications. We need a Senior Network Engineer - Global Backbone to design and build the core network infrastructure that connects our ground stations worldwide and handles terabytes of satellite communications data.

Responsibilities

• Design global network backbone architecture - Build high-performance WAN infrastructure connecting phased array ground stations across continents. Design resilient network topologies that ensure 99.9%+ uptime for mission-critical space communications.
• Implement advanced routing protocols - Deploy and manage BGP, OSPF, and IS-IS across global network infrastructure. Establish peering relationships with service providers and internet exchanges for optimal routing and redundancy.
• Deploy optical transport systems - Install and configure DWDM, optical switches, and fiber infrastructure for high-capacity data transport between ground stations. Manage Layer-1 circuit provisioning and troubleshooting.
• Coordinate global circuit deployments - Work with service providers worldwide to provision circuits, cross-connects, and data center deployments. Manage circuit activations and coordinate with international carriers.
• Build service provider relationships - Negotiate contracts and technical requirements with carriers, internet exchanges, and data center providers. Establish redundant connectivity paths for critical ground station sites.
• Optimize network performance and capacity - Monitor network utilization and plan capacity upgrades for growing satellite communications traffic. Implement QoS policies and traffic engineering for mission-critical data flows.
• Lead international network deployments - Coordinate network infrastructure deployment for new ground station locations worldwide. Work with local providers and regulatory requirements for international connectivity.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related discipline AND 5+ years of enterprise networking experience; OR 7+ years of networking experience
• Hands-on experience with Layer-1 technologies including fiber optics, DWDM, optical transport, and circuit troubleshooting
• Deep understanding of BGP, OSPF, IS-IS, and internet routing architectures with hands-on implementation experience
• Experience with service provider networks, MPLS, and carrier-grade networking solutions
• Proficiency with networking vendors such as Cisco, Juniper, Arista for backbone infrastructure
• Experience leading complex network infrastructure projects and vendor relationships
• Ability to work independently across multiple time zones for global deployments

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in technical or engineering discipline
• Industry certifications (CCIE, JNCIE, or equivalent backbone networking certifications)
• Experience with NetBox or similar network documentation and IP address management systems
• Background in telecommunications, satellite communications, or mission-critical backbone networks
• International networking experience with cross-border circuit deployments
• Experience with network automation and infrastructure as code for backbone systems
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance

Additional Requirements

• This position requires successfully obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret Security Clearance as a condition of employment. While the clearance may not be immediately necessary upon hire, we encourage you to initiate the application process promptly upon accepting this offer. Your ability to secure the necessary clearance is essential for fulfilling key responsibilities of the role. Should you be unable to obtain it, Northwood Space reserves the right to modify or terminate your employment to align with optional needs.

Additional Information:

If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Northwood Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Northwood Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.