Development Test Specialist

About Northwood:

Northwood is a modern space infrastructure company bringing the benefits of space to the masses through advanced communications technology. We are building a global network of phased array ground stations that enable real-time, reliable communication for satellite missions such as national security, global connectivity, and disaster response. With a vertically integrated approach, Northwood designs, builds, and rapidly deploys scalable systems that power the next generation of space missions. If you like solving complex challenges and seeing your work deployed around the world with real impact, Northwood is the place to do it.

Role:

Northwood is seeking a Development Test Specialist to build and operate the hands-on test infrastructure that enables rapid hardware iteration from prototype through integration and qualification. In this role, you’ll assemble and troubleshoot test racks and setups, perform benchtop and integrated testing, and support environmental and system-level test campaigns with high-quality documentation and traceability. You’ll work closely with test engineers and hardware teams to debug anomalies, execute rework, fabricate harnessing and RF assemblies, and maintain a well-run lab environment. This is a highly hands-on role for someone who thrives in fast-paced development environments and enjoys turning scrappy prototypes into repeatable test setups that accelerate learning and reliability.

Responsibilities:

Build, wire, and troubleshoot test racks, fixtures, and mechanical/electrical test setups

Perform benchtop and integrated testing independently or with engineers, following procedures and requirements

Execute SMT + through-hole solder rework and fabricate harnesses/coax assemblies

Support integration and environmental test (repeatable configs, calibration/traceability, documentation)

Summarize and share test data and preliminary results, and support anomaly investigations to resolution

Maintain lab readiness (calibrated instrumentation, equipment health, tooling, consumables, organization)

Drive 5S and process improvements to improve throughput and reliability

Help develop safe work practices for high voltage / high power RF systems

Partner with test engineers to improve rack maintainability, documentation, and throughput

Basic Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

6+ years of experience as an electronics technician, test technician, or specialist supporting complex hardware

Knowledge of Ohm's Law, DC power supplies, and multimeters

Ability in soldering/rework for SMT and through-hole components, including fine-pitch work

Knowledge/experience operating basic machine shop equipment, including: sanders, grinders, saws, and hand tools

Preferred Qualifications:

Associate or bachelor's degree with a focus in physics, mathematics, or engineering

Ability to read and understand electrical schematics and mechanical drawings

Familiarity with the Linux command line

Ability to fabricate and repair electrical systems, including: soldering, crimping, and assembling connectors/harnesses

Ability to fabricate mechanical components and assemblies, including: milling, drilling, tapping and torquing

Knowledge/experience with RF test - including spectrum analyzer and network analyzer measurements - and dB units

Additional Information:

If you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Northwood Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Northwood Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.