Hyperspectral Algorithm Scientist

Welcome to Planet. We believe in using space to help life on Earth.

Planet designs, builds, and operates the largest constellation of imaging satellites in history. This constellation delivers an unprecedented dataset of empirical information via a revolutionary cloud-based platform to authoritative figures in commercial, environmental, and humanitarian sectors. We are both a space company and data company all rolled into one.

Customers and users across the globe use Planet's data to develop new technologies, drive revenue, power research, and solve our world’s toughest obstacles.

As we control every component of hardware design, manufacturing, data processing, and software engineering, our office is a truly inspiring mix of experts from a variety of domains.

We have a people-centric approach toward culture and community and we strive to iterate in a way that puts our team members first and prepares our company for growth. Join Planet and be a part of our mission to change the way people see the world.

Planet is headquartered in San Francisco, California, Earth.

About the Role:

The Calibration, Analytics Ready Data and InterOperability (CARDIO) operations team enables the generation of accurate and interoperable products from Planet's satellites. There are multiple methods used to characterise image quality and ensure accuracy; from celestial maneuvers to harmonisation of earth-facing on-orbit imagery. The work of the CARDIO team is performed at scale and affects millions of images and terabytes of data. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, creative, and experienced in working with hyperspectral data.

Impact You’ll Own:

• Research, modify, and develop best-in-class algorithms for processing hyperspectral imagery (HSI) from raw data to actionable insights for customers
• Provide thought leadership in best practices for radiometric and spectral calibration, validation, atmospheric correction, and geometric processing 
• Develop streamlined and highly optimized software modules for performing scene classification, material detection and identification, and band-to-band and cross-sensor image registration  

What You Bring:

• 10+ years experience working with hyperspectral sensors and imagery data
• Previous experience developing and operationally deploying HSI processing chains into 3rd party exploitation tools and on-board or ground segment infrastructures   
• Expert knowledge of imaging spectroscopy and familiarity in designing algorithms to create high quality products from multidimensional and complex raw outputs, with particular expertise in VNIR/SWIR HSI processing and algorithm implementation
• Familiarity with COTS/GOTS hyperspectral processing engines and exploitation tools 
• Extensive experience leveraging scientific computing using Python in a Unix/Linux environment
• Knowledge of how to scale algorithms with cloud computing resources, e.g. AWS or GCP
• A track record of successfully building, releasing, and supporting highly available, consistently performant services
• Hands-on, can-do attitude, great interpersonal skills, and ability to collaborate effectively

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Depth of knowledge and experience in imaging spectroscopy
• MS/PhD in a relevant scientific field 

Benefits While Working at Planet:

• Comprehensive Health Plan
• Wellness program and onsite massages in specific offices
• Flexible Time Off
• Recognition Programs
• Commuter Benefits
• Learning and Tuition Reimbursement
• Parental Leave
• Offsites and Happy Hours
• Volunteering Benefits

Some Press About Us: 

Our CEO, Will Marshall featured on TED and featured in a Planet Blog

“Planet: Bringing Space Back Down to Earth”

Tiny, privately owned satellites are changing how we view the Earth features in NBC News

“Planet And Rocket Lab Create Mission Patch To Honor Women In Aerospace” —Planet Blog

Why we care so much about Belonging. 

We’re dedicated to helping the whole Planet, and to do that we must strive to represent all of it within each of our offices and on all of our teams. That’s why Planet is guided by an ultimate  north star of Belonging, dreaming big as we approach our ongoing work with diversity, equity and inclusion.  If this job intrigues you, but you’re thinking you might not have all the qualifications, please... do apply!  At Planet, we are looking for well-rounded people from around the world who can contribute to more ways than just what is listed in this job description.  We don’t just fill positions, we aspire to fulfill people’s careers, most excited about folks who are motivated by our underlying humanitarian efforts.  We are a few orbits around the sun before we get to where we want to be, so we hope you’re excited to come along for the ride.