Lead Network Engineer (Space Communications)
About The Position
Northwood is looking for a Lead Network Engineer to design and build our global network backbone that will connect our phased array antennas worldwide. As we rapidly scale our space communications network and establish ground stations across the globe, we need someone who can architect robust, high-performance networking solutions that ensure reliable connectivity for mission-critical space communications. You'll be responsible for designing and implementing the core network infrastructure that enables our global operations, from physical layer connectivity to advanced routing protocols. This role will have significant impact on our network architecture as we expand internationally, and you'll work closely with engineering teams, data center partners, and service providers to establish world-class network infrastructure. We're seeking someone with deep networking expertise who thrives in building scalable, resilient networks for mission-critical applications.
Requirements
- 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
Nice To Haves
- 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
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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Number of Employees
11-50 employees
