About the Role
The Media Programs Research Lead will join Planet’s Communications team to support the operations of the Media and Think Tank Program (MTTP). The MTTP works with reporters and subject matter experts at think tanks to use Planet’s images and products to report on disasters, environmental stories, geopolitical events, and other news of global interest. This person will collaborate internally with a broad range of Planet stakeholders, including Marketing, technical and NGO-focused teams, as well as externally with journalists and experts to provide insights into, and on top of, Planet data. The ideal candidate is well‑versed in geopolitics and has experience working with satellite data, is curious with an eye for compelling stories, and enjoys developing creative approaches to visualizing and explaining complex subjects. This is a full‑time, hybrid role which will require you to work from our San Francisco, CA or D.C. office in Arlington, VA 3 days per week.
Impact You'll Own
- Proactively identify and develop stories relevant to current events that showcase the value of Planet’s data and analytic products.
- Analyze satellite data as well as other earth observation data to document and explain events of general interest.
- Collaborate with Communications and Data Visualization teams on ideas for proactive storytelling and image packages to send to media and research customers and partners.
- Support rapid response efforts during crisis news events with image identification and analysis.
- Build and maintain relationships with reporters, analysts, and subject matter experts.
What You Bring
- 4+ years experience working in a newsroom, think tank, or as a data analyst.
- Experience analyzing and interpreting satellite imagery.
- Experience with GIS tools and/or Adobe Photoshop.
- Experience supporting multiple projects simultaneously.
- Experience working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to work in a dynamic environment across multiple time zones.
- Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; fluent in written and spoken English.
What Makes You Stand Out
- Experience working with open source investigative tools, datasets and methods.
- Ability and comfort communicating results to external audiences.
- Relationships within think tank and press communities.
Application Deadline
September 11, 2026 by 11:59pm PM
Benefits While Working at Planet
- 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
- SanFrancisco Salary Range: $90,200—$112,700USD
- US National Salary Range: $79,300—$99,100USD
- Possibility of discretionary short‑term and long‑term incentives (bonus and equity).
SanFrancisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Pursuant to the SanFrancisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
EEO Statement
Planet is an equal opportunity employer, and committed to providing employment opportunities regardless of race, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other protected classification, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. Know Your Rights. Accommodations: Planet is an inclusive community and we know that everyone has their own needs. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation during the hiring process, please reach out to or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.
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