Sr. Satcom Modem Engineer

Planet; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 162,600 - 203,200; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans

Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution

Generous Paid Time Off

16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave

Wellness Program

Tuition Reimbursement

Equity

Job summary

Planet is looking for an experienced Satcom Modem Engineer to develop onboard satcom links, ground radios, and antenna systems. This hybrid role requires you to work from our San Francisco office three days a week, collaborating closely with multiple teams. Key responsibilities include architecting and validating cutting-edge software-defined satcom radios and leading performance validation for satellite communications systems. The position offers a competitive salary range and comprehensive benefits including health plans, paid leave, and equity.

Qualifications

• Strong experience with DSP algorithms and digital communication theory.
• Experience with Software Defined Radios (SDR) and GNU Radio.
• Experience defining and measuring radio performance metrics in real time.
• Experience with state-of-the-art RF System-on-Chip (SoC) implementations.

Responsibilities

• Develop GnuRadio-based ground modem solutions.
• Architect, design, and verify software-defined radios and modems.
• Lead on-orbit performance validation for satellite communications systems.
• Lead RF/MW/Optical system integration and testing.

Skills

DSP algorithms

Digital communication theory

Software Defined Radios (SDR)

GNU Radio

RF System-on-Chip (SoC)

Signal processing

Education

BS in Electrical/Computer Science

Tools

Matlab

Simulink

Linux

Python

Job description

Planet is developing the next generation of small satellite buses, featuring high‑resolution optical imaging payloads, a space‑based data center connected by optical inter‑satellite links (OISLs), and high‑speed RF/Microwave communication links. We continuously iterate on and develop small spacecraft communication systems—including board‑level hardware, antennas, and ground station equipment—to achieve record data rates and link performance. Our system utilizes proprietary and industry‑standard modems, transceivers across several bands, optical laser communication systems, and a worldwide network of ground stations.

We are seeking an experienced Satcom Modem Engineer to develop and mature our next‑generation onboard satcom links, ground radios, and antenna systems, pushing the frontiers of satellite communications. You will architect, design, simulate, implement, and validate cutting‑edge software‑defined Satcom radios. 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. Success requires close collaboration with RF, EE, Flight SW, systems engineering, missions, and manufacturing teams.

This is a full‑time, hybrid role which will require you to work from our San Francisco office 3 days per week.

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.

What You Bring

• 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 defining and measuring radio performance metrics in real time (e.g., SNR, BER, PER, and constellation visualization).
• 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 communications.

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 SDR platforms and associated signal processing libraries (e.g., GNURadio).
• Proficiency in Linux, Python, and data analysis tools.
• Experience with optical communications and links for space applications.
• Expertise in Radar and/or Phased Array technology.

Application Deadline

August 1, 2026 at 11:59pm PST

Benefits While Working at Planet

• 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
• Equity
• Commuter Benefits (if local to an office)

Compensation

San Francisco Salary Range: $162,600 – $203,200 USD. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary short‑term and long‑term incentives (bonus and equity). The final salary range is determined by job‑related experience, skills and location. The range displays our typical hiring range for new hire salaries in US locations only.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

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. Know Your Rights.

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 hiring process, please reach out to [e-mail] or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.