<div>Welcome to Planet. We believe in using space to help life on Earth.Planet designs, builds, and operates the largest constellation of imaging satellites in history. This constellation delivers an unprecedented dataset of empirical information via a revolutionary cloud-based platform to authoritative figures in commercial, environmental, and humanitarian sectors. We are both a space company and data company all rolled into one.Customers and users across the globe use Planet's data to develop new technologies, drive revenue, power research, and solve our world’s toughest obstacles.As we control every component of hardware design, manufacturing, data processing, and software engineering, our office is a truly inspiring mix of experts from a variety of domains.We have a people-centric approach toward culture and community and we strive to iterate in a way that puts our team members first and prepares our company for growth. Join Planet and be a part of our mission to change the way people see the world.Planet is a global company with employees working remotely world wide and joining us from offices in San Francisco, Washington DC, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and The Netherlands.</div>About the Role:Planet is currently seeking a Lead Cost Analyst/Cost Engineering Manager to join our team in San Francisco, CA.  Join our high-impact Supply Chain organization and serve as a crucial link between our engineering, manufacturing, and financial planning teams. This role demands a unique blend of financial expertise and technical acumen to drive product profitability from initial concept through mass production. You will be the primary owner of our product and project costing models, responsible for ensuring financial discipline, supporting key investment decisions, and ultimately, improving our unit economics. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy translating complex technical plans into clear financial outcomes, this is the role for you.This is a full-time, hybrid role which will require you to work from our San Francisco office at least 3 days per week.Impact You'll Own:Lead Cost Estimation &amp; Modeling:<ul><li>Review project plans and specifications to develop accurate and reliable cost estimates for key projects.</li><li>Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to model product and production costs across development stages (e.g., Bill of Materials (BOM), tooling, labor, overhead).</li><li>Translate engineering and production plans into financially rigorous build and ramp scenarios, identifying financial risks and reallocation opportunities.</li></ul>Cost Control &amp; Financial Strategy:<ul><li>Collaborate with program managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure the effective execution of cost control measures throughout the lifecycle of projects.</li><li>Drive marginal cost analysis and margin forecasts for new and existing products.</li><li>Drive cost-down roadmaps in collaboration with Design, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing, identifying levers to improve unit economics.</li></ul>Strategic Financial Support &amp; Analysis:<ul><li>Support cross-functional tradeoff decisions—such as make vs. buy, tooling investments, and Design for Manufacturing (DFM) options—with clear financial impact analysis.</li><li>Perform ad hoc analysis as requested to support various leadership initiatives and strategic decisions.</li></ul>Planning &amp; Reporting:<ul><li>Own the forecast and budget cycles for manufacturing and engineering spend areas, ensuring transparency and accountability across teams.</li><li>Build financial dashboards and tooling to improve visibility into BOM drivers, absorption trends, and program-level cost performance.</li></ul>What You Bring:<ul><li>Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.</li><li>10+ years of experience in a cost engineering, financial analysis, or program finance role, preferably supporting a Aerospace hardware, manufacturing, or consumer electronics environment.</li><li>Solid foundational understanding of manufacturing processes, product lifecycle management (PLM), and cost accounting principles (e.g., standard costing, variance analysis).</li><li>Exceptional analytical and financial modeling skills, with expertise in building complex, multi-variable cost models.</li><li>Advanced proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and Microsoft Excel.</li></ul>What Makes You Stand Out: <ul><li>Experience working on Bus systems, Fabricated Metals, Printed Circuit Boards or Optical payloads in a technical or procurement analyst capacity.</li><li>Thorough understanding of PLM systems like Arena, Teamcenter etc.</li><li>Ability to analyze and manage complex structured BOMs and configurations.</li><li>Ability to manage conflicting priorities with frequent context switching.</li><li>MBA or advanced degree is a plus.</li><li>Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct reporting authority.</li></ul>Application Deadline:March 1, 2026 at 11:59pm PSTEAR/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.<ul><li>Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans</li><li>Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution</li><li>Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company-wide days off </li><li>16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave</li><li>Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)</li><li>Home Office Reimbursement</li><li>Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement</li><li>Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning</li><li>Equity</li><li>Commuter Benefits (if local to an office)</li><li>Volunteering Paid Time Off</li></ul>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.<div><div><div>San Francisco Salary Range</div><div>$128,400—$160,500 USD</div></div></div><div>Why we care so much about Belonging.  We’re dedicated to helping the whole Planet, and to do that we must strive to represent all of it within each of our offices and on all of our teams. That’s why Planet is guided by an ultimate north star of Belonging—dreaming big as we approach our ongoing work.  If this job intrigues you, but you’re thinking you might not have all the qualifications, please... do apply!  At Planet, we are looking for well-rounded people from around the world who can contribute to more ways than just what is listed in this job description.  We don’t just fill positions, we aspire to fulfill people’s careers, most excited about folks who are motivated by our underlying humanitarian efforts.  We are a few orbits around the sun before we get to where we want to be, so we hope you’re excited to come along for the ride. EEO statement: Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. 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. <a href="https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf">Know Your Rights.</a>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 accommodations@planet.com or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.Privacy Policy: By clicking "Apply Now" at the top of this job posting, I acknowledge that I have read the Planet Data Privacy Notice for California Staff Members and Applicants, and hereby consent to the collection, processing, use, and storage of my personal information as described therein.Privacy Policy (European Applicants): By clicking "Apply Now" at the top of this job posting, I acknowledge that I have read the Candidate Privacy Notice GDPR Planet Labs Europe, and hereby consent to the collection, processing, use, and storage of my personal information as described therein.AI in Our Interviewing Process: Planet is committed to providing an exceptional interview experience for all candidates. We are currently exploring AI interviewing technologies to better focus on candidates and less on trying to capture notes. As such, with the candidate's consent, select interviews may be recorded and include a Planet AI Notetaker for transcription and summarization purposes. Should an interview involve use of AI interview technologies, the candidate will receive notification and have the ability to opt out both in advance and/or real-time. Opting out will not affect one's candidacy.Candidate AI Policy: Planet embraces Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, and we encourage its responsible use. We understand that candidates may use various resources, including AI tools, to prepare for interviews and assessments. However, during any live interview stage or when actively completing assessments for this position, the use of AI tools—e.g. Large Language Models (LLMs), deep fake technology, etc.—is strictly prohibited unless explicitly prompted by an interviewer or assessment instructions. If you are unsure about acceptable use, please contact your recruiter for clarification. If an AI tool or similar technology is desired as an accommodation, please contact accommodations@planet.com with your request for assistance. Your message will be confidential, and we will be happy to assist you. Violation of this policy may result in disqualification of your application.</div>

Planet started as a small team of physicists and engineers, and now operates the world's largest constellation of Earth-imaging satellites. We offer our customers a diverse selection of 3-meter, 5-meter, and 80-centimeter data products, all under one roof.
From precision agriculture and emergency response to supply chain and infrastructure monitoring, we believe that timely, global imagery and analytics will empower informed, deliberate, and meaningful stewardship of our planet.

Lead Cost Analyst / Cost Engineering Manager

<div>Welcome to Planet. We believe in using space to help life on Earth.Planet designs, builds, and operates the largest constellation of imaging satellites in history. This constellation delivers an unprecedented dataset of empirical information via a revolutionary cloud-based platform to authoritative figures in commercial, environmental, and humanitarian sectors. We are both a space company and data company all rolled into one.Customers and users across the globe use Planet's data to develop new technologies, drive revenue, power research, and solve our world’s toughest obstacles.As we control every component of hardware design, manufacturing, data processing, and software engineering, our office is a truly inspiring mix of experts from a variety of domains.We have a people-centric approach toward culture and community and we strive to iterate in a way that puts our team members first and prepares our company for growth. Join Planet and be a part of our mission to change the way people see the world.Planet is a global company with employees working remotely world wide and joining us from offices in San Francisco, Washington DC, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and The Netherlands.</div>About the Role:Planet is currently seeking a Lead Cost Analyst/Cost Engineering Manager to join our team in San Francisco, CA.&nbsp; Join our high-impact Supply Chain organization and serve as a crucial link between our engineering, manufacturing, and financial planning teams. This role demands a unique blend of financial expertise and technical acumen to drive product profitability from initial concept through mass production. You will be the primary owner of our product and project costing models, responsible for ensuring financial discipline, supporting key investment decisions, and ultimately, improving our unit economics. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy translating complex technical plans into clear financial outcomes, this is the role for you.This is a full-time, hybrid role which will require you to work from our San Francisco office at least 3 days per week.Impact You'll Own:Lead Cost Estimation &amp; Modeling:<ul><li>Review project plans and specifications to develop accurate and reliable cost estimates for key projects.</li><li>Partner with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to model product and production costs across development stages (e.g., Bill of Materials (BOM), tooling, labor, overhead).</li><li>Translate engineering and production plans into financially rigorous build and ramp scenarios, identifying financial risks and reallocation opportunities.</li></ul>Cost Control &amp; Financial Strategy:<ul><li>Collaborate with program managers, engineers, and other stakeholders to ensure the effective execution of cost control measures throughout the lifecycle of projects.</li><li>Drive marginal cost analysis and margin forecasts for new and existing products.</li><li>Drive cost-down roadmaps in collaboration with Design, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing, identifying levers to improve unit economics.</li></ul>Strategic Financial Support &amp; Analysis:<ul><li>Support cross-functional tradeoff decisions—such as make vs. buy, tooling investments, and Design for Manufacturing (DFM) options—with clear financial impact analysis.</li><li>Perform ad hoc analysis as requested to support various leadership initiatives and strategic decisions.</li></ul>Planning &amp; Reporting:<ul><li>Own the forecast and budget cycles for manufacturing and engineering spend areas, ensuring transparency and accountability across teams.</li><li>Build financial dashboards and tooling to improve visibility into BOM drivers, absorption trends, and program-level cost performance.</li></ul>What You Bring:<ul><li>Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.</li><li>10+ years of experience in a cost engineering, financial analysis, or program finance role, preferably supporting a Aerospace hardware, manufacturing, or consumer electronics environment.</li><li>Solid foundational understanding of manufacturing processes, product lifecycle management (PLM), and cost accounting principles (e.g., standard costing, variance analysis).</li><li>Exceptional analytical and financial modeling skills, with expertise in building complex, multi-variable cost models.</li><li>Advanced proficiency in data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) and Microsoft Excel.</li></ul>What Makes You Stand Out:&nbsp;<ul><li>Experience working on Bus systems, Fabricated Metals, Printed Circuit Boards or Optical payloads in a technical or procurement analyst capacity.</li><li>Thorough understanding of PLM systems like Arena, Teamcenter etc.</li><li>Ability to analyze and manage complex structured BOMs and configurations.</li><li>Ability to manage conflicting priorities with frequent context switching.</li><li>MBA or advanced degree is a plus.</li><li>Ability to influence cross-functional teams without direct reporting authority.</li></ul>Application Deadline:March 1, 2026 at 11:59pm PSTEAR/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.<ul><li>Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision plans</li><li>Health Savings Account (HSA) with a company contribution</li><li>Generous Paid Time Off in addition to holidays and company-wide days off&nbsp;</li><li>16 Weeks of Paid Parental Leave</li><li>Wellness Program and Employee Assistance Program (EAP)</li><li>Home Office Reimbursement</li><li>Monthly Phone and Internet Reimbursement</li><li>Tuition Reimbursement and access to LinkedIn Learning</li><li>Equity</li><li>Commuter Benefits (if local to an office)</li><li>Volunteering Paid Time Off</li></ul>Compensation:The US base salary range for this full-time position at the commencement of employment is listed below.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; The range displays our typical hiring range for new hire salaries in US locations only.&nbsp; Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.<div><div><div>San Francisco Salary Range</div><div>$128,400—$160,500 USD</div></div></div><div>Why we care so much about Belonging.&nbsp; We’re dedicated to helping the whole Planet, and to do that we must strive to represent all of it within each of our offices and on all of our teams. That’s why Planet is guided by an ultimate north star of Belonging—dreaming big as we approach our ongoing work.&nbsp; If this job intrigues you, but you’re thinking you might not have all the qualifications, please... do apply!&nbsp; At Planet, we are looking for well-rounded people from around the world who can contribute to more ways than just what is listed in this job description.&nbsp; We don’t just fill positions, we aspire to fulfill people’s careers, most excited about folks who are motivated by our underlying humanitarian efforts.&nbsp; We are a few orbits around the sun before we get to where we want to be, so we hope you’re excited to come along for the ride.&nbsp;EEO statement: Planet is committed to building a community where everyone belongs and we invite people from all backgrounds to apply. 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. <a href="https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf">Know Your Rights.</a>Accommodations:&nbsp; 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 accommodations@planet.com or contact your recruiter with your request. Your message will be confidential and we will be happy to assist you.Privacy Policy: By clicking "Apply Now" at the top of this job posting, I acknowledge that I have read the Planet Data Privacy Notice for California Staff Members and Applicants, and hereby consent to the collection, processing, use, and storage of my personal information as described therein.Privacy Policy (European Applicants): By clicking "Apply Now" at the top of this job posting, I acknowledge that I have read the Candidate Privacy Notice GDPR Planet Labs Europe, and hereby consent to the collection, processing, use, and storage of my personal information as described therein.AI in Our Interviewing Process: Planet is committed to providing an exceptional interview experience for all candidates. We are currently exploring AI interviewing technologies to better focus on candidates and less on trying to capture notes. As such, with the candidate's consent, select interviews may be recorded and include a Planet AI Notetaker for transcription and summarization purposes. Should an interview involve use of AI interview technologies, the candidate will receive notification and have the ability to opt out both in advance and/or real-time. Opting out will not affect one's candidacy.Candidate AI Policy: Planet embraces Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, and we encourage its responsible use. We understand that candidates may use various resources, including AI tools, to prepare for interviews and assessments. However, during any live interview stage or when actively completing assessments for this position, the use of AI tools—e.g. Large Language Models (LLMs), deep fake technology, etc.—is strictly prohibited unless explicitly prompted by an interviewer or assessment instructions. If you are unsure about acceptable use, please contact your recruiter for clarification. If an AI tool or similar technology is desired as an accommodation, please contact accommodations@planet.com with your request for assistance. Your message will be confidential, and we will be happy to assist you. Violation of this policy may result in disqualification of your application.</div>

Lead Cost Analyst / Cost Engineering Manager

About the Job

About the Company

Planet

Similar Jobs

Senior Finance Manager, FP&A

Senior Finance Manager, FP&A

Manager, Cost Accounting

Manager, Cost Accounting

Financial Analyst, Senior / Product Line Controller

Financial Analyst, Senior / Product Line Controller

Principal Cost Engineer

Principal Cost Engineer

Senior Cost Accountant

Senior Cost Accountant

Sr. Cost & Operations Manager

Sr. Cost & Operations Manager

Senior Plant Cost Accountant

Senior Plant Cost Accountant

Manager, Construction Accounting

Manager, Construction Accounting

Finance Manager

Finance ManagerNew

Senior Manager of FP&A

Senior Manager of FP&ANew