Flight Dynamics Engineer, Orbits R&D

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 world wide and joining us from offices in San Francisco, Washington DC, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and The Netherlands.About the RoleAs a Flight Dynamics 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 of this team include mission design, orbit determination, maneuver design and execution (with propulsion and differential-drag), and conjunction assessment & mitigation. Mission Planning is concerned with optimal scheduling of imaging and contacts for Planet's Dove, SkySat, Pelican, and Tanager constellations. This operations research problem has a direct impact on fulfilling the business needs for the world's largest heterogeneous constellation of Earth Observation satellites. Your role will involve developing and automating tools to assess market design trade‑offs that will define the future of Planet's constellations.This is a full-time, hybrid role which will require you to work from our San Francisco office 3 days per week.Impact You'll OwnResearch, design, and architect new software solutions for managing Mission Design needs for Planet's increasingly diverse fleets of satellites.Work on complex optimization problems with your knowledge of flight dynamics and software engineering.Develop and automate tools to assess mission design trade-offs that will define the future of Planet's constellations.Collaborate with mission planning, flight dynamics, and ground software teams to improve the operations of existing fleets and enable future missions.Perform first‑principles analysis to optimize scheduling of imaging and contacts for Planet's diverse satellite constellations.What You BringBachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, physics or related technical field2-3 years of relevant work experienceExperience in orbital mechanics and space mission operationsSoftware development experience in C++ and PythonAbility to carry out first‑principles analysis and operationalize MVP solutionsExcellent written and verbal technical communication skillsWhat Makes You Stand OutExperience with constellation and mission design trade studiesExperience implementing one or more of the following:Orbit determination and high‑fidelity propagationCovariance realismExperience maintaining peer‑reviewed code, attention to quality including automated testing, and continuous integration and deploymentApplication DeadlineOctober 6, 2026 at 11:59p PTExport ControlThis position requires access to export‑controlled information, and as such, employment (or hiring of a contractor) is contingent upon the candidate's ability to access all applicable export‑controlled information without additional export licensing being required by the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls.Benefits While Working at PlanetComprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plansHealth Savings Account (HSA) with a company contributionGenerous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company‑wide days off16 Weeks of Paid Parental LeaveWellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)Home Office ReimbursementMonthly Phone and Internet ReimbursementTuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn LearningEquityCommuter Benefits (if local to an office)CompensationThe US base salary range for this full‑time position at the commencement of employment is listed below. 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. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.San Francisco Salary Range$114,200 - $142,700 USDEEO StatementPlanet 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.AccommodationsPlanet 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 accommodations@planet.com or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.#J-18808-Ljbffr