Space Systems Solutions Architect
About the Role: Planet is seeking a skilled and adaptable Space Solutions Engineer to support the expansion of our constellation services and technical engagements across the U.S. government and defense markets. In this role, you will collaborate with commercial leaders and senior technical staff to design and deliver compelling satellite-based solutions that meet the mission needs of U.S. government, defense, and civil agencies. You'll leverage your technical acumen, systems engineering experience, and customer insight to shape proposals, support pre-sales efforts, and ensure alignment between customer requirements and Planet's capabilities. This is a full-time, remote position based in the United States. If located near an office, you are expected to work from that office 3 days per week. Impact You'll Own: • Technical Solution Design: Lead or contribute to the design of scalable, mission-driven satellite and geospatial solutions for U.S. government and defense customers. Translate complex customer requirements into clear technical concepts, proposals, and deliverables that highlight Planet's value. • Technical Support in Strategic Pursuits: Partner with the Space Systems and Business Development teams to support strategic pursuits-from initial technical discussions through to solution definition, negotiation, and contract execution. Provide pre-sales technical expertise and ensure proposed solutions align with Planet's products and operational capabilities. • Customer & Cross-Functional Engagement: Act as the technical liaison between customers and internal teams, ensuring strong alignment across engineering, product, operations, and mission delivery. Capture customer feedback and emerging mission needs to inform Planet's product roadmap and technical strategy. • Support for U.S. Strategic Initiatives: Contribute technical input to U.S.-based strategic projects such as mission partnerships, constellation integration, and technology demonstrations. Support Planet's work with the U.S. government and DoD/IC community to advance adoption of commercial space capabilities. What You Bring: • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Remote Sensing, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field. • 12+ years of experience in a customer-facing technical role such as Solutions Engineer, Systems Engineer, or Technical Pre-Sales within the space, aerospace, defense, or geospatial industry. • Strong understanding of satellite systems, remote sensing, and geospatial data applications. • Excellent communication and presentation skills; able to explain complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. • Experience collaborating cross-functionally across engineering, product, and business development teams. • Have the ability to obtain and maintain a US TS/SCI security clearance. • Ability to travel up to 25% of the year domestically customer meetings and events. • Experience with mission operations, satellite integration, or aerospace manufacturing is a plus. • Familiarity with U.S. government acquisition processes, contracts, or DoD/IC customer environments is highly desired. What Makes You Stand Out: #LI-REMOTE Application Deadline: March 2, 2026 at 11:59pm PST EAR/ITAR Requirements: This position requires access to export-controlled information, and as such, employment (or hiring of a contractor) is contingent upon the candidate's ability to access all applicable export-controlled information without additional export licensing being required by the Bureau of Industry and Security and/or the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls. Benefits While Working at Planet: These offerings are dependent on employment type and geographical location, based upon applicable law or company policy. • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution • Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company-wide days off • 16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave • Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) • Home Office Reimbursement • Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement • Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning • Equity • Commuter Benefits (if local to an office) • Volunteering Paid Time Off Compensation: The US base salary range for this full-time position at the commencement of employment is listed below. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary short-term and long-term incentives (bonus and equity). The final salary range is determined by job related experience, skills and location. The range displays our typical hiring range for new hire salaries in US locations only. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process. Apply tot his job