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Tech Lead, System Validation

PlanetSan Francisco, CASpace Operations
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Salary
$144,500 — $180,600 USD
Job type
Full-time
Experience
Senior · 4+ yrs
Posted
5 Oct 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

This role suits an experienced engineer with a background in testbed or network systems who wants to lead validation infrastructure for satellite operations. The position is based in San Francisco, CA.

Role Overview

Planet is hiring a full-time Tech Lead, System Validation to join the Space Operations team in San Francisco, CA. This position requires working from the office five days per week. The professional in this role will oversee multi-mission system validation testbeds, sitting at the intersection of satellite operations and software engineering to maintain reliable fleet performance.

Key Responsibilities

Define and execute the roadmap for the buildout and maintenance of all systems validation testbeds
Drive stakeholder engagement, feature request prioritization, and resource allocation
Design and develop tooling to help users test software and firmware updates effectively
Manage hardware and software configurations for testbeds
Maximize uptime of multi-mission testbeds by resolving anomalies with subject matter experts

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical discipline
4 to 6 years of relevant testbed or network engineering experience
Experience with Bash, Python, or other scripting or object-oriented languages
Familiarity with Linux or UNIX servers, IP networks, and Docker
Written, verbal, and facilitation communication skills
Problem-solving, organizational, and analytical skills for data-driven decisions
Customer-centric mindset and ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Ability to access export-controlled information without additional licensing

Nice to Have

Experience scaling systems for satellite manufacturing or testing
Project management experience with cross-functional teams
Experience preparing training materials or training teams on new responsibilities
Motivation by underlying humanitarian efforts

Skills and Tools

Bash
Python
Linux or UNIX servers
IP Networks
Docker

Salary and Benefits

US Base Salary Range: $144,500 — $180,600 USD per year in San Francisco
Potential eligibility for discretionary short-term and long-term incentives such as bonus and equity
Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
Health Savings Account with company contribution
Paid Time Off, holidays, and company-wide days off
16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave
Wellness Program, Employee Assistance Program, and Home Office Reimbursement
Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement
Tuition Reimbursement and LinkedIn Learning access
Commuter Benefits for local office employees and Volunteering Paid Time Off

About the Company

Planet designs, builds, and operates the largest constellation of imaging satellites in history. The organization provides datasets via a cloud-based platform to commercial, environmental, and humanitarian sectors. Planet controls hardware design, manufacturing, data processing, and software engineering internally, maintaining a global presence with employees worldwide and offices in locations including San Francisco and Washington DC.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official Planet careers page to submit an application.

Skills and tech stack

Questions candidates ask

Where is this position located?

This is a full-time, in-office position based in San Francisco, CA, requiring attendance 5 days per week.

What is the salary range for this role?

The US base salary range in San Francisco is $144,500 to $180,600 USD per year, with potential eligibility for discretionary bonuses and equity.

What educational background is required?

A Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field is required.

How many years of experience are needed?

Candidates must have 4 to 6 years of relevant testbed or network engineering experience.

Are there specific export control requirements?

Yes, the position requires access to export-controlled information, meaning employment is contingent upon the candidate's ability to access this information without additional export licensing.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Planet careers page.

Apply on company site