Optical Integration & Test Engineer

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:  

Our Payload Group is looking for an Optical Integration & Test Engineer to help us design, plan, and lead the execution of an expanding in-house assembly line of camera, telescope, and payload integration and test capabilities with a focus on hyperspectral instruments.

We are responsible for system-level analysis, operations, simulations, development, and test of our Earth observation payloads. Our group works at the intersection of hardware, software, and product engineering teams in the Space Systems division.

The role will appeal to candidates that enjoy getting hands-on with camera, sensor, and telescope technology while interfacing with experts in photography, science, systems engineering, and operations.

In this role you will collaborate with Camera, Sensor, Systems, Qualification, and other Test Engineers in leading the testing, manufacturing, development, and troubleshooting of imaging systems for our constellations.

You will also support and potentially lead engagements with external partners for test and integration activities.

Impact You’ll Own:

The candidate will be responsible for:

• Understanding and executing spectrometer performance characterization
• Understanding and executing warm and cold alignment and performance testing of imaging spectrometers, telescopes, and end-to-end instruments
• Understanding of the relationship between optical prescription, tolerances, and key performance error budgets
• Experience in working with vendors, suppliers, and integrators for components typically found in imaging payloads
• Organize, direct, and participate in integration & test activities in cleanroom environments
  

What You Bring:

• 5+ years relevant experience in assembly, integration, alignment, and test of instruments and/or telescopes
• Experience with imaging spectrometers, in particular test and validation experience
• Experience in functional, performance, and environmental testing of imaging instruments and payloads
• Hands-on, can-do attitude, great interpersonal skills, and ability to collaborate effectively
• BS/MS in an EE, CS, AA or relevant scientific/engineering field

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Experience working with flight hardware for space, including familiarity with safety and contamination processes.
• Experience in driving the definition and execution of Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
• First hand experience working with external vendors, suppliers, and integrators
• Practical experience troubleshooting and debugging complex systems
• PhD in EE, CS, AA or relevant scientific/engineering 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.