Application Guide
How to Apply for Software Engineer - Platform, Mission Systems
at Planet
🏢 About Planet
Planet operates the largest fleet of Earth-imaging satellites, providing daily global coverage to monitor environmental change, agriculture, and urban development. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven company that uses cutting-edge technology to empower data-driven decisions for a sustainable future.
About This Role
As a Software Engineer on the Platform team for Mission Systems, you'll build and maintain the automation and cloud infrastructure that controls Planet's satellite constellation. This role is critical to ensuring reliable satellite operations and enabling the delivery of timely Earth imagery to customers.
💡 A Day in the Life
Start the day by monitoring satellite health dashboards and reviewing automation logs. Collaborate with satellite operations to troubleshoot a ground station issue, then spend the afternoon coding a new Terraform module to scale cloud resources. End the day with a code review for a colleague's CI/CD pipeline improvement.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Planet Is Looking For
- Has 4+ years of experience building and maintaining cloud-based infrastructure (AWS/GCP) with tools like Terraform, Kubernetes, or Ansible.
- Proficient in Python and familiar with relational databases (Postgres, MySQL), automated testing, and CI/CD pipelines (GitLab CI, Docker).
- Enjoys working cross-functionally with satellite operations, ground systems, and product teams to solve complex problems.
- Values open communication, collaboration, and self-learning in a remote-first environment.
📝 Tips for Applying to Planet
Highlight specific experience with infrastructure-as-code (Terraform, Ansible) and container orchestration (Kubernetes) on your resume.
Mention any work with satellite systems, aerospace engineering, or high-reliability systems to stand out.
In your cover letter, connect your technical skills to Planet's mission of environmental monitoring and global imaging.
Tailor your examples to show you can work autonomously in a remote setting while collaborating across time zones.
Research Planet's satellite technology (e.g., Doves, SuperDoves) and mention how your skills apply to scaling their constellation.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Express passion for Planet's mission of Earth observation and environmental stewardship.", 'Emphasize your experience with cloud infrastructure, automation, and Python in production environments.', 'Demonstrate ability to work cross-functionally with teams like satellite operations and product.', 'Showcase your problem-solving skills and experience with high-availability systems.']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Learn about Planet's satellite fleet (Doves, SuperDoves, Pelican) and their imaging capabilities.
- → Understand the company's mission and recent news (e.g., partnerships, product launches).
- → Read about Planet's infrastructure blog or engineering talks on YouTube.
- → Familiarize yourself with the challenges of satellite operations, such as orbit management and data downlink.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid generic resumes that don't mention cloud infrastructure or automation tools.
- Don't neglect to show remote work experience or ability to communicate asynchronously.
- Avoid applying without understanding Planet's mission; they value mission alignment.
📅 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:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!