Network Engineer - Backbone

northwoodspaceLos Angeles, CA
$160,000 - $220,000

About The Position

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.

Requirements

  • 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

Nice To Haves

  • 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

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.
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