Network Engineer - Backbone

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