Aerospace Development Engineer Intern

Rocket Lab USA; Auckland; On-site; NZD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on aerospace projects

Mentorship from engineers

Exposure to rocket systems

Professional development

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland is seeking a motivated Development Engineering Intern to join the Neutron Mechanical team. You will work across structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal systems, creating CAD concepts and drawing packages for thrust module components.

You will test, refine, and document designs, contribute to build and assembly, and participate in multidisciplinary collaboration while meeting realistic deadlines. This role offers hands-on aerospace experience and mentorship.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or advanced degree in aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering or equivalent qualification
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
• Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture, making connections and appropriate decisions
• Tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements
• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

Responsibilities

• Design: Produce and rapidly iterate CAD designs for structures and mechanisms across Neutron's Thrust Module.
• Test: Develop test plans and document results to verify functional requirements.
• Build: Contribute to the build of structures and mechanisms and write work instructions.
• Additional Responsibilities: Collaborate across disciplines, meet deadlines, and follow health and safety policies.

Skills

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Ability to work under pressure

Tenacity

Passion for aerospace

Education

Bachelor's/Master's/advanced degree in aerospace/mechanical/mechatronic engineering

Tools

CAD proficiency

Job description

Rocket Lab in Auckland is seeking a motivated Development Engineering Intern to join the Neutron Mechanical team. You will work across structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal systems, creating CAD concepts and drawing packages for thrust module components.

You will test, refine, and document designs, contribute to build and assembly, and participate in multidisciplinary collaboration while meeting realistic deadlines. This role offers hands-on aerospace experience and mentorship.