Hybrid Applied Scientist

Posted 3 weeks ago

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About the role

  • Applied Scientist leading mission concept design for next-generation satellites at Planet. Working with R&D on industry’s most challenging optical, thermal, and communications problems.

Responsibilities

  • Lead the "Phase 0" and "Phase A" architecture of new satellite missions, defining orbital parameters, constellation density, and system-level performance requirements.
  • Invent and patent novel solutions for optical payloads, active/passive thermal management, and advanced communication links (RF and Lasercom) to ensure competitive advantage.
  • Build high-fidelity, first-principles simulations to perform rapid trade studies on mission feasibility and hardware-software trade-offs.
  • Publish internal whitepapers and external patent applications to secure the company’s technological moat.
  • Lead the technical contribution for external proposals for Planet’s Space Business.

Requirements

  • Master’s or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a related field.
  • 12+ years of experience in satellite system design, with a specific focus on constellation-level engineering.
  • Exceptional understanding of first-principles physics, including thermodynamics, orbital mechanics, and optics.
  • Proficiency in Python and C++ for building custom multiphysics simulation tools.
  • Solving hard engineering problems where thermal constraints directly conflict with optical or communication requirements.
  • Hands-on experience with industry-standard analysis tools.
  • Excellent communication skills to bridge the gap between theoretical research and flight-hardware production.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution
  • Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company-wide days off
  • 16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave
  • Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Home Office Reimbursement
  • Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement
  • Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning
  • Equity
  • Commuter Benefits (if local to an office)
  • Volunteering Paid Time Off

Job title

Applied Scientist

Job type

Experience level

SeniorLead

Salary

$203,300 - $254,100 per year

Degree requirement

Postgraduate Degree

Tech skills

Location requirements

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