Neutron Mechanical/Mechatronics Test Engineering Intern (Oct 2024)

Your role

As a Mechanical/Mechatronics Test Engineering Intern - Neutron based at Rocket Lab’s site in Auckland, NZ, you will have the opportunity to work closely with the Neutron Upper Module team. This team is the most diverse team within Neutron with engineers working on composite structure design, mechanisms, fluids and actuators. Due to the diverse engineering that occurs on the Upper Module, you will have an opportunity to interface with nearly every other team on Neutron. 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
• Design and conduct Test Campaigns for Mechanical Actuators on Neutron
• Build and Commission Test Rigs
• Produce Test Reports for said Tests so that Mechanical Actuators are ready for production
• 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.

• 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)
• Practical hands-on engineering experience in Machining, Soldering, Wiring, Instrumentation, Mechanical Assembly

These Qualifications Would Be Nice to Have

• Pursuing a career in Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical/Mechatronics Engineering
• Technical skills in CAD, Robotics, Sensors, Data Processing
• Passion/hobby in rocketry and aerospace projects

Additional Requirements

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

Compensation & benefits

All of their internships are paid and temporary accommodation will be provided for the successful candidate for the duration of the internship, however, they will need to supply their own transport to and from the site. 

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, and over 80% of internships result in employment with Rocket Lab.

How to apply

When applying please include a detailed cover letter stating what interests you about Rocket Lab and this role in particular. Feel free to be creative and stand out in your application and introduction to the team at Rocket Lab. Be sure to include relevant experience/personal or school projects you have completed that align with this role and why you believe you would be the best candidate.

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page:

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