Optical Technician

Job Description

Planet is seeking an Optical Technician to join their team in San Francisco. In this role, the technician will be responsible for executing ground-based optical payload testing in collaboration with satellite manufacturing, camera operations, calibration, and other system engineers. The technician will help test, manufacture, develop, and troubleshoot telescopes and camera assemblies for Planet's constellations.Responsibilities:

• Test and characterization of telescopes and cameras for image quality and radiometric performance.
• Execute detailed test procedures and accurately record/prepare test results and data analysis.
• Assemble opto-mechanical and electrical test fixtures and setups to facilitate product testing.
• Proficiently handle, measure, and clean optical components.
• Maintain and troubleshoot test equipment and set up optical test stations.
• Develop stable, repeatable, and automated testing capabilities.
• Work closely with engineers to support project development work.
• Report status, present data in a meaningful way on a regular basis.

Requirements:

• 4+ years of experience working with optics & optical assemblies.
• Excellent knowledge of imaging optics (testing telescopes and cameras).
• Good understanding of optical alignment, image quality metrics, camera calibration and radiometry.
• Experience with radiometric and MTF calculations; the use of interferometers, wavefront sensors, monochromators, collimators, power meters, light sources and integrating spheres.
• Experience with mechanical tools and fixtures.
• Excellent debugging for opto-mechanical and electrical systems.
• Ability to execute and develop complex, detailed test procedures.
• Familiarity with proper laboratory safety and manufacturing best practices in a cleanroom environment.
• Impeccable organization skills are required.
• Experience working with cross-functional technical engineering teams.
• Demonstrated ability to perform basic software development and/or lab automation (Python, microcontrollers, etc).

Benefits:

• 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