Senior Software Engineer, Orbits R&D

Planet; Alberta; Remote; CAD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of satellite technology as a Senior Software Engineer. You will play a crucial role in Flight Dynamics and Mission Planning, working alongside a talented team to design innovative software solutions. This position offers the opportunity to influence satellite operations, mentor fellow engineers, and engage in complex mathematical challenges. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, the company fosters a collaborative environment where your contributions can truly make a difference. Embrace this chance to be part of a mission that changes how we perceive the world.

Benefits

Health and Dental Coverage

HSA

RRSP with Company Contribution

Paid Time Off

Remote Work

Wellness Programs

Home Office Reimbursement

Qualifications

• 8+ years of relevant experience in software engineering.
• Proficiency in C++ and Python with strong technical communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and architect new software solutions for Flight Dynamics.
• Collaborate with aerospace engineers and mentor team members.

Skills

C++

Python

Technical Communication

Automated Testing

CI/CD

Orbital Mechanics

Education

Advanced degree in Computer Science

Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering

Advanced degree in Physics

Tools

Docker

Jenkins

JIRA

Linux Systems

Job description

Join to apply for the Senior Software Engineer, Orbits R&D role at Planet

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Join to apply for the Senior Software Engineer, Orbits R&D role at Planet

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 worldwide and joining us from offices in San Francisco, Washington DC, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and The Netherlands.

About The Role

As a Senior Software Engineer, you will work on a small team of dedicated engineers responsible for the Flight Dynamics and Mission Planning for Planet’s fleet of satellites. The Flight Dynamics disciplines include mission design, orbit determination, maneuver design and execution (with propulsion and differential-drag), and conjunction assessment & mitigation. Mission Planning involves optimal scheduling of imaging and contacts for Planet’s constellations. You will architect software, write production-level code, and lead the development of automation tools. You will also mentor team members and help establish the software strategy.

This is a full-time position, located at our SF headquarters or remote in the US or Canada.

Impact You’ll Own

• Research, design, and architect new software solutions for Flight Dynamics and Mission Planning
• Collaborate with aerospace engineers on complex mathematics problems and provide software mentorship
• Improve satellite fleet operations and enable future missions

What You Bring

• Advanced degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, physics, or related field
• 8+ years of relevant experience
• Proficiency in C++ and Python
• Experience with peer-reviewed code, automated testing, CI/CD
• Familiarity with orbital mechanics and space operations
• Operationalize MVP solutions through first-principles analysis
• Strong technical communication skills

What Makes You Stand Out

• Experience with Docker, Jenkins, JIRA, Linux systems
• Experience with orbit determination, high-fidelity propagation, covariance, low-thrust mission design, operations research, constellation management, microservices architecture

Additional Information

This role requires access to export-controlled information, contingent upon ability to access such information without additional licensing.

Benefits

• Health and Dental coverage, HSA, RRSP with company contribution
• Paid time off, remote work, wellness programs, home office reimbursement, and more

Our Commitment to Belonging

We value diversity and inclusion, encouraging people from all backgrounds to apply. We aim to create a community where everyone belongs and can contribute to our mission.

EEO and Accommodations

We are an equal opportunity employer. For accommodations, contact [e-mail].

Legal and Privacy

By applying, you acknowledge reading our privacy notices and consent to data processing.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Engineering and IT
• Industry: Software Development