About the Role:Planet is working on the next generation small satellite bus that will host a high resolution optical imaging payload (Pelican) and a hyperspectral payload (Carbon Mapper). Planet has continuously iterated and developed small spacecraft communication systems including board level hardware, antennas, and ground station equipment that produce record data rates. Our system consists of transceivers in several bands, as well as a worldwide network of ground stations. We are seeking an experienced RF and communication engineer to develop our next-generation onboard and ground radios and antenna systems that pushes the frontiers of satellite communications. You will make evolutionary and revolutionary improvements in their performance, reliability and cost, including the design of next-generation S-band through Ka-band radios and a variety of antennas as well as work with vendors on various design projects. You will be responsible for PCB layout projects and interfacing with mechanical engineers to address challenging packaging and thermal issues. You will conduct environmental and EMC testing on communication subsystems and get them ready for flight. You will work closely with systems engineering, missions, and manufacturing teams to ensure mission success.This is a part-time, three month role with Planet. This role will require you to be physically present at our headquarters in San Francisco, CA, 3+days a week.Impact You'll Own:RF hardware circuit design, simulation (Spice, ADS), and instrumentation and testingRF system design, link budgets, and interference analysisEMI testing and mitigationAntenna design, simulation and testing (ADS, HFSS)Digital communications theory and associated signal processing algorithms for both narrowband and wideband data transmission systemsSoftware Defined Radio (SDR) platforms and respective signal processing libraries (ex.: GNURadio)Validation and Verification of radios and antennas pre-shipment and validation of radio performance on orbit after satellite launchWhat You Bring:BSEE is required, MS/PhD preferred10+ years of engineering experience designing and maturing RF/antennas/SDRs to market.Ability to review low-level design decisions and understand their impact to the larger system/missionExceptional fundamentals in RF/microwave, electromagnetics, and signal processingProven ability to support and criticize RF layout, RF circuit design and component selectionExceptional knowledge of digital communications theory and associated signal processing algorithms for both narrowband and wideband data transmission systems Proven ability to adapt and learn additional skills to further develop/contribute to the design of a complex system including but not limited to active RF circuits, transceivers, mixers, switches, RF amplifiers, oscillators, detectors, filters, and other building blocks for space and ground station applicationsEAR/ITAR Requirements:This position requires access to export-controlled technology, and as such, and in accordance to applicable law, employment is only open to US citizens, US nationals, lawful permanent residents of the US or persons admitted to the US as an asylee or refugee. Benefits While Working at Planet:Comprehensive Health PlanWellness program and onsite massages in specific officesFlexible Time OffRecognition ProgramsCommuter BenefitsTuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn LearningParental LeaveOffsites and Happy HoursVolunteering BenefitsThis position requires access to export controlled technology, and as such, employment will be contingent upon the candidate's ability to access EAR and/or ITAR controlled technology pursuant to an export license approved by the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls, if required.
