
Applied Scientist
Planet
part-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: United States
Visit company websiteExplore more
Salary
💰 $203,300 - $254,100 per year
Tech Stack
About the role
- 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
- 📊 Check your resume score for this job Improve your chances of getting an interview by checking your resume score before you apply. Check Resume Score
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
satellite system designconstellation-level engineeringfirst-principles physicsthermodynamicsorbital mechanicsopticsPythonC++multiphysics simulation toolsthermal management
Soft Skills
communication skillsproblem-solvingleadership
Certifications
Master’s degreePh.D.