Job Description

Planet is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to design, manufacture, integrate, test, and operate advanced imaging payloads. The role involves collaboration across teams to develop and refine optical instruments for Earth observation missions, requiring hands-on experience with hardware, software, and product engineering.

Responsibilities

• Coordinating and executing optical manufacturing activities
• Performing alignment and performance testing of imaging spectrometers and telescopes
• Writing test plans and analyzing data for imaging system calibration
• Developing test software and electrical ground support equipment
• Coordinating optomechanical manufacturing activities
• Participating in integration and test activities in cleanroom environments
• Leading the design, manufacturing, testing, and operation of advanced imaging payloads
• Collaborating with partners to transfer imaging expertise
• Providing technical oversight of external vendors

Requirements

• 6-8 years of relevant experience in imaging payloads, cameras, or telescopes
• 3+ years of experience in assembly, integration, alignment, and test of optical instruments
• Experience with Zemax, MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++
• Hands-on attitude and great interpersonal skills
• Experience working with external vendors and suppliers
• Experience in recording detailed test descriptions and data summaries
• Experience in driving the definition and execution of Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
• Experience in manufacturing and production environments
• Practical experience troubleshooting complex systems
• Educational background in Optical Engineering or equivalent experience

Benefits

• No benefits