Neutron Development Engineering Intern (Oct 2024)

Your role

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites they build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Their Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be their next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega-constellations of the future. Their space systems business includes their extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

As a Neutron Development Engineering Intern based at Rocket Lab’s site in Auckland, NZ, you will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced test engineers in setting up, designing, calibrating, planning and troubleshooting the test campaigns for the Neutron upper module. This includes but is not limited to, full-scale stage separation, canard actuation, fairing actuation and structural testing of the fairing. Joining the Neutron team is your opportunity to help launch a new large rocket for the very first time!

What you'll get to do:

• As an intern, you will work closely with your mentor and other employees within the department to apply your knowledge and grow your skills both technically and professionally
• Work with a fast-paced group of professionals to apply engineering and industry concepts to solve real challenges
• Attend frequent 1:1’s with mentors and supervisors to facilitate success and learning while providing progress updates
• Enjoy tech talks and network with other interns and employees through social and professional events

About you

Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in small, high-performing teams that are focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by the knowledge and experience you bring to the role, your ability to lead development projects without supervision, and your ability to successfully collaborate across teams to deliver results.

You’ll need to bring these qualifications:

• Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master's or doctorate degree program in an engineering, physics or math discipline and have at least one semester of school remaining post-internship
• Be in good academic standing with a minimum B (3.0) Grade point average or higher
• 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

These qualifications would also be nice to have:

• Engineering Testing Experience
• Passion/hobby in rocketry and aerospace projects
• Knowledge of Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM)

Additional requirement:

• Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning November 2024.  

Benefits

As an intern, you'll enjoy the following benefits:

• Paid internship
• A fast-paced and dynamic culture
• Attend tech talks and networking opportunities
• Work with world-class industry leaders who enable each other to reach new heights

Training & development

Rocket Lab offers tailored internship programs designed to provide students with hands-on experience in the space industry. Interns work closely with mentors and team members, gaining technical and professional skills while contributing to real projects. They foster a collaborative environment where growth, trust, and pushing boundaries are highly valued.

To know more, watch this video:

Career progression

Interns benefit from regular 1:1 sessions with mentors and supervisors to facilitate their learning and progress, with projects and opportunities available to challenge and grow their careers. Over 80% of their internships result in employment with Rocket Lab.

Source

The following sources were used in researching this page:

• rocketlabusa.com/careers/
• rocketlabusa.com/careers/internships/