Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Manufacturing Test Engineer

at Planet

🏢 About Planet

Planet operates the world's largest constellation of Earth-imaging satellites, providing daily global coverage that enables timely environmental monitoring, agricultural insights, and disaster response. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven company that leverages cutting-edge space technology to foster a more sustainable planet.

About This Role

As a Senior Manufacturing Test Engineer, you will ensure the reliability and scalability of PCBA testing for satellite hardware, directly impacting the quality of our Earth-imaging instruments. Your work involves troubleshooting test stations, driving root cause analysis, and evolving test strategies to support high-volume manufacturing in Germany.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing overnight test station logs and resolving any flagged issues from the manufacturing floor. Mid-morning, you could collaborate with design engineers to update test requirements for a new PCBA revision, followed by hands-on debugging of a failing bed-of-nail fixture. Afternoons often involve writing Python scripts to automate data collection and analyzing test yield trends to identify improvement opportunities.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Planet Is Looking For

  • Has 6+ years of hands-on experience in PCBA testing, including developing and sustaining electrical tests for manufacturing.
  • Can read and interpret complex PCBA schematics and debug hardware issues at the component level.
  • Is proficient in Python for test automation and familiar with JTAG/boundary scan and bed-of-nail testers.
  • Thrives in a fast-paced, iterative environment and enjoys collaborating closely with manufacturing operators and design engineers.
  • Holds a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Computer, or Aerospace Engineering (or equivalent).

📝 Tips for Applying to Planet

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific PCBA test experience, especially with JTAG, boundary scan, and Python scripting.

2

Showcase any experience with satellite or aerospace hardware testing, even if tangential.

3

In your cover letter, mention your familiarity with root cause analysis methodologies (e.g., 8D, fishbone).

4

If you have experience deploying test software in a manufacturing environment, detail it clearly.

5

Research Planet's satellite technology and mention how your skills align with their mission of global Earth imaging.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your hands-on experience with PCBA test development and troubleshooting.', 'Highlight your ability to drive test strategy improvements for scalability and reliability.', "Connect your work to Planet's mission of providing timely Earth-imaging data.", 'Mention your proficiency in Python and test automation frameworks.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read about Planet's satellite constellation architecture (e.g., Dove, SuperDove, Pelican).
  • → Understand the company's manufacturing approach and where the Germany facility fits in.
  • → Look into recent news about Planet's Earth-imaging applications and partnerships.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the typical test requirements for space-grade PCBA (e.g., thermal cycling, vibration).

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you debugged a complex PCBA failure and how you identified the root cause.
2 How would you design a test station for a new satellite component? Walk through your approach.
3 Explain your experience with JTAG/boundary scan and how you've used it in a manufacturing context.
4 How do you prioritize test station issues when multiple production lines are down?
5 Tell us about a time you improved test coverage or reduced test time without sacrificing quality.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Avoid generic statements about 'passion for space' without linking it to technical test engineering.
  • Don't overlook the importance of software skills (Python) – emphasize them even if your background is hardware-heavy.
  • Don't neglect to mention your experience with manufacturing test station sustainment; this role is not just about design but also day-to-day support.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Planet!

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