Applied Scientist

About the Role:

We are seeking an Applied Scientist to lead the mission concept design for our next-generation satellite constellations. In this role, you will be working with the R&D team on the "future-evolution" of Planet satellites. You will work at the intersection of deep physics and rapid engineering, developing novel ideas required to solve the industry’s most challenging optical, thermal, and communications problems.

Join us in revolutionizing how complex space systems are conceptualized and deployed, moving from standard industry designs to high-performance, novel architectures.

This is a part-time, remote position based in the United States. If located near an office, you are expected to work from that office 3 days per week.

Impact You'll Own:

• 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.

What You Bring:

• 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.

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Experience moving from a "blank sheet" concept to a breadboard or flight-ready prototype in a high-cadence environment.

#LI-REMOTE

Application Deadline:

April 11, 2026 at 11:59p PT

EAR/ITAR Requirements:

This position requires access to export-controlled information, and as such, employment (or hiring of a contractor) is contingent upon the candidate’s ability to access all applicable export-controlled information without additional export licensing being required by the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls.

Benefits While Working at Planet:

These offerings are dependent on employment type and geographical location, based upon applicable law or company policy.

• 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

Compensation:

The US base salary range for this full-time position at the commencement of employment is listed below.  Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary short-term and long-term incentives (bonus and equity). The final salary range is determined by job related experience, skills and location.  The range displays our typical hiring range for new hire salaries in US locations only.  Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.