Northwood · 2 weeks ago
Lead Network Engineer (Space Communications)
Northwood is on a mission to transform connectivity between earth and space through innovations in space communications technologies. They are seeking a Lead Network Engineer to design and build their global network backbone that will connect phased array antennas worldwide, ensuring reliable connectivity for mission-critical space communications.
AerospaceHardwareSatellite Communication
Responsibilities
Design and implement global network backbone architecture to connect phased array antennas and ground stations worldwide
Build out physical and logical network infrastructure including fiber connectivity, transport networks, and DWDM systems
Deploy and configure enterprise networking equipment including switches, routers, firewalls, and optical transport systems
Implement advanced routing protocols (BGP, OSPF, IS-IS) and manage peering relationships with service providers and internet exchanges
Design and deploy mesh networking architectures and SD-WAN solutions to meet operational requirements
Coordinate data center deployments, cross-connects, and circuit activations across multiple global locations
Implement network security functions including firewalls, VPNs, and zero-trust architectures
Troubleshoot complex network issues across all layers from physical fiber to application-level connectivity
Optimize network performance and capacity planning for high-throughput space communications data
Collaborate with product teams to integrate networking requirements with space communication systems
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical discipline AND 5+ years of professional networking experience; OR 7+ years of professional networking experience in lieu of degree
Hands-on experience with Layer-1 technologies including fiber optics, DWDM, optical transport, and circuit troubleshooting
Experience with data center build-outs, equipment deployment, and coordinating with colocation providers
Strong experience bringing up and configuring switches, routers, firewalls, and optical networking equipment
Deep understanding of routing protocols including BGP, OSPF, IS-IS, and internet routing architectures
Experience with service provider networks, MPLS, and carrier-grade networking solutions
Proficiency with networking vendors such as Cisco, Juniper, Arista, or similar enterprise platforms
Ability to work independently and lead complex network infrastructure projects
Preferred
Master's degree in technical or engineering discipline
Industry certifications (CCIE, JNCIE, or equivalent vendor certifications)
Experience with NetBox or similar network documentation and IP address management systems
Cloud networking experience with AWS, Azure, or GCP including VPC design and hybrid connectivity
Experience with SD-WAN architectures and software-defined networking
Knowledge of network security implementations and zero-trust architectures
Background in telecommunications, satellite communications, or mission-critical networking
Experience with network automation, scripting, and infrastructure as code
Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance if required for government contracts
Company
Northwood
Northwood was founded by Bridgit Mendler, Griffin Cleverly, and Shaurya Luthra with the mission to expand access to space by transforming satellite backhaul infrastructure.
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$36.4MKey Investors
Harvard Innovation Labs
2025-04-22Series A· $30M
2024-02-19Seed· $6.3M
2023-02-08Grant· $0.1M
Recent News
Satellite Today
2025-07-11
Ars Technica - All content
2025-07-10
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