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Northwood Space is a modern space infrastructure company building a global network of phased array ground stations for satellite communications. The company designs, builds, and deploys scalable systems supporting national security, global connectivity, and disaster response missions.
As Senior DSP Engineer, you will own the end-to-end definition and development of modem algorithms for the next-generation radio platform. This is a substantial individual contributor role where you will take ownership of the complete modem pipeline—from waveform definition through implementation and validation.
Key responsibilities include:
- Define and develop modem algorithms end-to-end, from requirements through implementation and validation
- Design waveform processing chains including synchronization, pulse shaping, equalization, and related signal-processing functions for implementation on in-house SDR or FPGA platforms
- Partition and implement modem signal-processing functions across FPGA logic and embedded/host-based compute within existing hardware architecture
- Collaborate with RF, FPGA, and systems engineers to integrate modem algorithms into the end-to-end system and validate performance
- Develop and execute communication system tests to characterize modem performance under realistic channel impairments
You will work fluently in waveforms and signal chains, translating theoretical understanding into real implementation. The role is ideal for an engineer comfortable moving from analysis and prototyping through to working implementation without needing to own surrounding RF hardware, data-converter, clocking, or embedded systems architecture.
Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience in electrical or computer engineering. Demonstrated expertise developing modems or waveform processing chains for SDR, wireless communications, radar, or similar RF systems. Strong understanding of digital communications theory including CCSDS waveforms, BPSK/QPSK/OQPSK, DVB-S2, carrier synchronization, pulse shaping, equalization, and Doppler effects. Proven ability to carry waveform algorithms from analysis and prototyping through to working implementation. Working understanding of complete signal chains and how modem design decisions interact with RF and hardware constraints. Experience with communication system testing and performance characterization.
Preferred qualifications include bit-equivalence verification through FPGAs, SDR frameworks such as GNU Radio, real-time signal processing experience, systems programming in C++ or Rust (Rust especially valued), and experience with beamforming, radar, or electronic warfare systems.
Note: U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status required due to ITAR regulations.
