Ground Systems Engineering Intern

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 40,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on aerospace projects

Mentorship from engineers

Exposure to rocket systems

Career development in space industry

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking an enthusiastic intern to join the Ground Systems Engineering team in Auckland. You will help design, build, test and commission structures and mechanisms for launch sites and mobile equipment, while working with technicians to ensure on-time delivery to specification.

The role involves developing facilities and equipment to support the Electron Launch System and space systems, plus opportunities to contribute to real space technology projects.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline.
• Strong 3D CAD skills (SolidWorks, SolidEdge, or similar).
• Ability to perform engineering calculations and analysis.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Hands-on approach during project build phases.
• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Assist design of launch vehicle transporters, erectors and launchers.
• 2D & 3D modelling using CAD software.
• System sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods.
• Develop and maintain BOMs and schematics.
• Interact with suppliers and internal teams.
• Support certification of launch pad systems where applicable.
• Support test program development and data analysis.
• Hands-on participation during project build phases.

Skills

3D CAD

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Engineering calculations

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Mechanical or Mechatronics

Tools

SolidWorks

SolidEdge

Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we 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.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We’re opening access to space to improve life on Earth through our Electron rocket and Neutron launch vehicle programs, alongside our space systems business. From pioneering carbon composite rocket technology to delivering reliable and rapid launch services, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We’re looking for a motivated intern to join our Ground Systems Engineering team in Auckland. As an Intern with our Ground Systems Engineering team you will be involved in the design, build, test and commissioning of structures and mechanisms for our launch sites, test sites and mobile equipment. You will also be involved in project planning and working closely with technicians to ensure projects are delivered on time and to specification.

As a member of Ground Systems Team you will be focused on developing the facilities and equipment required to support the Electron Launch System and Space systems.

This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that are literally reaching for the stars.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Technical Skills (with supervision):

• Design of systems including launch vehicle transporters, erectors, and launchers, spacecraft handling equipment, and ground support tooling
• 2D & 3D modelling using CAD software
• System sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods
• Generate & maintain schematics of mechanical systems e.g. Hydraulic schematics, P&IDs, connection diagrams
• Develop and maintain BOMs
• Interact with suppliers and internal teams
• Support certification of launch pad systems where applicable
• Support test program development
• Willingness to get your hands dirty during project build phases

Operations Support (with supervision):

• Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of launch pad systems and vehicle interfaces
• Design, develop and maintain test equipment
• Post-flight and post-test data analysis
• Collaborate with test and ops team to ensure systems are operational
• Support pad technicians remotely or in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities
• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline
• Strong 3D CAD skills (experience with SolidWorks,SolidEdge, or similar)
• Ability to perform engineering calculations and analysis
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Willingness to take a hands‑on approach during project build phases
• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems
• Familiarity with creating P&IDs and system schematics
• Experience with test equipment design and development
• Knowledge of structural analysis and mechanical design principles
• Previous internship or project experience in mechanical engineering or aerospace
• Hands‑on fabrication or prototyping experience

WHAT WE OFFER

• Hands‑on experience working on real aerospace and space technology projects
• Mentorship from world‑class engineers and industry professionals
• Exposure to cutting‑edge rocket and spacecraft systems
• Opportunity to work on launch pad systems and ground support equipment
• Professional development opportunities in the space industry
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• Opportunity to contribute to missions that make a difference
• Potential pathway to future career opportunities at Rocket Lab

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [e-mail]. This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States’ International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.