Job Description
The R D Lab Manager at Planet is responsible for overseeing the physical workspace, performing precision solder rework on hardware, supporting engineering testing, and maintaining lab equipment and inventory to enable a team of engineers to develop and validate satellite hardware components.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain and organize the lab environment, ensuring clean and ESD-safe workspaces
- Perform precision SMT soldering, including hot air rework and inspecting solder joints
- Set up boards and fixtures for engineering testing, collect data, and troubleshoot prototypes
- Manage lab equipment, schedule calibrations, and coordinate infrastructure updates
- Oversee inventory, handle vendor communication, and track supply orders
- Build rapid-prototype fixtures using 3D printers and laser cutters, and handle harness rework and wiring
- Use software tools for flashing and provisioning electrical subsystems, utilizing basic Linux skills
Requirements
- Six (6) years of relevant experience in a technical or engineering environment.
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a scientific field.
- Deep experience in precision SMT soldering and hot air rework, with the ability to interpret electrical schematics and drawings fluently.
- Proficiency with basic test instrumentation, including multimeters, bench power supplies, and oscilloscopes.
- Hands-on experience in a machine shop environment, including the use of 3D printers and laser cutters for rapid prototyping.
- A solid background in inventory management, vendor coordination, and maintaining high-quality documentation and supply chains.
- A commitment to high workmanship standards and the ability to manage the maintenance of deployed setups and systems.
- Interpersonal skills and the ability to multitask and prioritize resources among competing needs.
- Application of IPC-J-STD-001 standards or equivalent certification (preferred but not explicitly mandatory).
- Ability to access export-controlled information without requiring additional export licensing, as this position requires compliance with EAR ITAR regulations.
Benefits & Perks
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
Discretionary short-term and long-term incentives bonus and equity
US base salary range of 162,600 - 203,200 USD
Ready to Apply?
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