Planet
Sr. Satcom Modem Engineer
San Francisco, CA · Senior · Contract
Sponsorship not specified$163k-$203kDetected 1 day ago
PythonMATLABAlgorithmsLinuxData AnalysisLLMsSystems EngineeringElectrical EngineeringHardware DesignSignal ProcessingRF EngineeringSensorsSimulinkResearchCommunicationCollaboration
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Entry-level history0
PERM / green-card track0
Lottery odds (Level IV)94
Fits your clock70
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About the role
- Our system utilizes proprietary and industry-standard modems, transceivers across several bands, optical laser communication systems, and a worldwide network of ground stations.
- Responsibilities include characterizing the SDR link performance of Planet's next-generation S through Ka-band and optical terminals, selecting vendors, and managing subcontractors for Satcom solutions.
- You will facilitate and conduct rigorous testing on space and ground communication subsystems to ensure flight readiness.
Responsibilities
- Develop GnuRadio-based ground modem solutions.
- Architect, design, and verify space segment software-defined radios and modems.
- Lead on-orbit performance validation for end-to-end satellite communications systems.
- Lead RF/MW/Optical Communications system integration and testing.
- Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply.
- Planet is an inclusive community and we know that everyone has their own needs.
Requirements
- Strong experience with DSP algorithms, digital communication theory, and implementation (including digital modulation, synchronization, error correction, floating-point, and fixed-point design).
- Experience with Software Defined Radios (SDR), specifically GNU Radio and Linux development tools.
- Experience with state-of-the-art RF System-on-Chip (SoC) implementations.
- BS in Electrical/Computer Science or equivalent experience with a focus on digital communicatons.
- Experience with SDR platforms and associated signal processing libraries (e.g., GNURadio).
- Proficiency in Linux, Python, and data analysis tools.
- Experience defining and measuring radio performance metrics in real time (e.g., SNR, BER, PER, and constellation visualization).
- What Makes You Stand Out:
- MS or Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a focus on digital communications.
- Expertise in Matlab and Simulink for modem design.
- Experience with optical communications and links for space applications.
- Expertise in Radar and/or Phased Array technology.
- Application Deadline:
- October 30, 2026 at 11:59pm PST
Skills
- Welcome to Planet.
Compensation
- The US base salary range for this full-time position at the commencement of employment is listed below.
- The final salary range is determined by job related experience, skills and location.
- Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
- San Francisco Salary Range
- $162,600 - $203,200 USD
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
- Commuter Benefits (if local to an office)
- Volunteering Paid Time Off
- Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary short-term and long-term incentives (bonus and equity).
Company info
- We are both a space company and data company all rolled into one.
- 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.
Equal opportunity
- EEO statement:
Visa & Work Authorization
- Should an interview involve use of AI interview technologies, the candidate will receive notification and have the ability to opt out both in advance and/or real-time.
This listing is sourced directly from Planet's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.