Application Guide

How to Apply for Software Engineer, Manufacturing Systems

at Planet

🏢 About Planet

Planet operates the largest constellation of Earth-imaging satellites, providing daily global coverage that enables data-driven decisions for agriculture, climate, and national security. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven company that combines cutting-edge space technology with software engineering to make a tangible impact on planetary stewardship.

About This Role

As a Software Engineer on the Manufacturing Systems team, you'll build and improve the software infrastructure that tests and validates satellite hardware components, directly impacting production quality and scalability. Your work ensures that thousands of hardware parts work seamlessly together, enabling Planet to launch and operate reliable satellites.

💡 A Day in the Life

You'll start by checking the CI pipeline for overnight hardware test results, then join a stand-up with test engineers to discuss blockers. The rest of the day might involve writing Python code to improve a test framework, debugging a sensor communication issue in Linux, or reviewing a colleague's pull request for a new hardware interface.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Planet Is Looking For

  • Has strong systems thinking: can design software that integrates with diverse hardware components (e.g., sensors, actuators, test equipment) and troubleshoots cross-system issues.
  • Is proficient in Python and GNU/Linux, with hands-on experience in unit testing, CI/CD pipelines, and debugging hardware-software interfaces.
  • Demonstrates project planning skills: can break down complex tasks, prioritize dependencies, and communicate implementation plans clearly to cross-functional teams.
  • Enjoys collaborative, hands-on work: participates in test campaigns alongside test engineers and technicians, and contributes to code reviews and root cause analysis.

📝 Tips for Applying to Planet

1

Highlight specific projects where you built software that interacted with hardware (e.g., test automation for electronics, robotics control, or embedded systems). Use concrete numbers (e.g., 'reduced test time by 30%').

2

Showcase your experience with Python and Linux by mentioning relevant tools (e.g., pytest, Jenkins, Docker, or custom scripts for hardware control).

3

Emphasize any experience in manufacturing, satellite, or aerospace environments, even if tangential—Planet values domain familiarity.

4

Tailor your resume to include 'project planning' examples: describe how you identified requirements, estimated effort, and coordinated with teams to deliver software.

5

Mention familiarity with version control (Git), code review practices, and collaborative workflows like Agile or Scrum.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express passion for Planet's mission of providing daily Earth imagery for environmental and humanitarian impact.", 'Detail your experience with hardware-software integration, including specific languages and tools (Python, Linux, CI/CD).', 'Provide an example of a project where you planned and executed software improvements that enhanced hardware testing or reliability.', 'Highlight your ability to work cross-functionally with test engineers and technicians, showing your communication and teamwork skills.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read Planet's blog posts about their satellite manufacturing process and how software enables their rapid iteration.
  • → Familiarize yourself with their satellite constellations (e.g., Doves, SuperDoves) and the types of hardware they test.
  • → Review Planet's public engineering talks or webinars on testing and automation to understand their engineering culture.
  • → Look into their open-source contributions (e.g., on GitHub) to see their tech stack and coding standards.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you debugged a complex issue involving both software and hardware. How did you isolate the problem?
2 How would you design a test framework for a new satellite component? Walk through requirements, dependencies, and implementation steps.
3 Explain your experience with continuous integration pipelines for hardware-in-the-loop testing.
4 How do you prioritize tasks when multiple hardware teams need software support simultaneously?
5 What's your experience with GNU/Linux system administration, especially for real-time or embedded systems?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without referencing Planet's mission or satellite technology.
  • Failing to provide concrete examples of hardware-software integration—vague claims like 'I have experience with hardware' without specifics.
  • Overlooking the importance of collaboration: this role involves working closely with test engineers and technicians, so avoid portraying yourself as a solo coder.

📅 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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