Spectrum 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 a global company with employees working remotely world wide and joining us from offices in San Francisco, Washington DC, Germany, and The Netherlands.

About the Role:

Planet is working on next generation systems and space platforms and we are seeking a spectrum engineer to aid in Planet’s next generation satellite licensing and regulatory efforts, both domestically and internationally. As an experienced spectrum engineer on a world-class engineering team, you will take the chief technical responsibility for leading the spectrum-related licensing efforts for Planet satellites and ground stations. You will perform RF link analysis, interference analysis, and develop tools for these analyses. You will work with the RF, ground station, and regulatory teams to support ITU, FCC, and other meetings and RF co-ordination and licensing efforts.  You will participate and lead the effort in the ITU study groups in preparation for World Radiocommunication Conferences  to obtain the required allocations for the upcoming Planet constellations. You will keep up to date on ITU and FCC filings for systems  that may cause interference to Planet’s satellites. Simply put, you will help shape the space systems of tomorrow.

Impact You’ll Own:

• Lead all technical aspects of spectrum management for Planet satellites and ground stations
• Develop and maintain link budgets and interference analysis tools for various radios and using appropriate simulation tools
• Support ITU and FCC coordination and licensing efforts for the upcoming missions
• Represent Planet in domestic and regional preparatory processes for relevant ITU  meetings and in such international meetings.

What You Bring:

• 5+ years of relevant experience in satellite communications or spectrum management
• Strong technical experience in performing link budget and interference analysis in Matlab/STK/Python/C/C++
• Experience in the application of ITU/FCC radio regulations, ITU/FCC study groups, related satellite filing process 
• Experience negotiating radio frequency coordination agreements
• BS in Electrical/Computer Science or similar work experience

What Makes You Stand Out:

• Experience with satellite/RF communication systems, architectures, and networks
• Detailed knowledge of FCC, NITA, and ITU regulations and processes
• Solid understanding of the regulatory and competitive landscape around wireless spectrum use
• Excited by working in an agile, fast-paced environment, even in times of uncertainty and ambiguity.  
• Strong interpersonal, collaborative, and communication skills 
• Ability to present results effectively in briefings and technical reports 
• Excellent organizational, as well as written and oral communication skills
• 10-20% domestic and international travel required

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. 

EEO statement:

Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. Planet is an equal opportunity employer, and committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. 

Accommodations:

Planet is an inclusive community and we know that everyone has their own needs. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation during the interview process, please call Planet's front office at 669-214-9404 or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.

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