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# Sr. Satcom Modem Engineer

- **Company:** Planet Labs
- **Location:** San Francisco, CA, United States (Remote available)
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** $162,600 - $203,200
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Data Analysis, Systems Engineering, Cloud Computing, Modems, Data Centers, Data Transmissions, Data Files, Linux, Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), Hardware Design, Systems Analysis, Python (Programming Language), MATLAB, Satcom, Signal Processing, Simulink, Software Engineering, Systems Integration, Data Processing, Linux Development, Information Technology, Hardware Infrastructure
- **Published:** October 27, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.careerbuilder.com/job-details/sr-satcom-modem-engineer-san-francisco-ca--26932fc1-0321-41e5-8867-877e2b158021

## About the Role

Modems, Satellite Communications, Data Sets, Cloud Computing, Marconi/MSI Planet, Software Engineering, Hardware Design, Data Processing, Manufacturing, Hardware Components, * 10+ years of relevant work experience in satellite communications or digital signal processing.

 * Extensive experience with waveform and communications theory, baseband DSP algorithms, and implementation (including channel estimation, digital modulation, synchronization, error correction, floating-point, and fixed-point design).
 * Experience with Software Defined Radios (SDR), specifically GNU Radio and Linux development tools.
 * Experience with FPGA design workflow.
 * Experience defining and measuring radio performance metrics in real time (e.g., SNR, BER, PER, and constellation visualization).
 * Experience with state-of-the-art RF System-on-Chip (SoC) implementations.
 * MS in Electrical/Computer Science or equivalent experience.

What Makes You Stand Out:

 * Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering with a focus on digital communications.
 * Expertise in Matlab and Simulink for modem design.
 * Experience with SDR platforms and associated signal processing libraries (e.g., GNURadio).
 * Proficiency in Linux, Python, and data analysis tools.
 * Experience with optical communications and links for space applications.
 * Expertise in Radar and/or Phased Array technology

## Description

Planet is developing the next generation of small satellite buses, featuring high-resolution optical imaging payloads, a space-based data center connected by optical inter-satellite links (OISLs), and high-speed RF/Microwave communication links. We continuously iterate on and develop small spacecraft communication systems-including board-level hardware, antennas, and ground station equipment-to achieve record data rates and link performance. Our system utilizes proprietary and industry-standard modems, transceivers across several bands, optical laser communication systems, and a worldwide network of ground stations., We are seeking an experienced Satcom Modem Engineer to develop and mature our next-generation onboard satcom links, ground radios, and antenna systems, pushing the frontiers of satellite communications. You will architect, design, simulate, implement, and validate cutting-edge software-defined Satcom radios. Responsibilities include characterizing the SDR link performance of Planet's next-generation S through Ka-band and optical terminals, selecting vendors, and managing subcontractors for Satcom solutions. You will facilitate and conduct rigorous testing on space and ground communication subsystems to ensure flight readiness. Success requires close collaboration with RF, EE, FPGA, Flight SW, systems engineering, missions, operations and manufacturing teams.

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 Own:

 * Develops GnuRadio-based ground modem solutions.
 * Drives the path from waveform concept and system analysis to floating point reference models, fixed point bit true models, and FPGA handoff.
 * Lead on-orbit performance validation for end-to-end satellite communications systems.
 * Spearheads RF/MW/Optical Communications system integration and testing.
 * Supports integration, test, and qualification of ground and space segment software-defined radios and modems.
 * Collaborates across multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure flight readiness and link performance.