Manufacturing Engineering Intern - Composites

JobSpace; Auckland; On-site; NZD 22,000 - 33,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship from engineers

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland is offering a Manufacturing Engineering Intern position in the Composites team. You will support production processes for launch vehicle components, work with engineers and technicians, and help validate processes through prototyping, testing, and documentation.

The role focuses on learning, collaboration, and applying manufacturing principles to achieve high yield and on-time launches in a dynamic production environment.

Qualifications

• Currently studying towards a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.
• Can-do approach with flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively.
• Passion for the Aerospace Industry.

Responsibilities

• Support production activities in the composites manufacturing team in Auckland.
• Assist with process validation, documentation, and work instructions.
• Contribute to root-cause investigations and continuous improvement tasks.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians and SMEs across departments.
• Support risk assessments, 5S and project milestones as needed.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Independent work

Aerospace enthusiasm

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Manufacturing Engineering Intern - Composites

Manufacturing Engineering Intern - Composites

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.

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Composites Manufacturing Engineering team in Auckland. The primary purpose of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern is to support production activities related to the Launch Vehicle within a high-growth production environment, ensuring manufacturing principles are practised to a high standard and ensuring stringent launch times can be achieved.

This position will support the Lead Manufacturing Engineer with their deliverables. The role will also work closely and develop strong relationships with Engineers, Technicians, and subject matter experts across a range of departments to enable the build and testing of launch vehicles.

Regular activities of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern include reviewing and processing non-conformance documents, providing support to develop and optimise processes, tools and equipment for production. Supporting the composite team members during implementation of process changes through prototyping, testing and validation. They will also support the Manufacturing Engineering team with various other improvement projects, risk assessments, daily issue management and 5S related tasks.

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

General:

• Implement production processes through validation & verification to achieve 'right first time', repeatability and high yield
• Creation of clear technical documentation to support Production
• Work alongside technicians to develop and improve Work Instructions
• Design and develop tooling/equipment with stakeholders ensuring requirements are captured and delivered
• Mitigate risk within current processes
• Conduct root cause investigations as part of the integrated project team
• Self-manage tasks and project milestones

Project:

• Communicate major milestones and any potential risk
• Coordinate resources needed to complete project implementation

Problem Solving:

• Support project teams with practical problem-solving activities and promote the 'zero defect' mindset
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians and subject matter experts across multiple departments
• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

MUST HAVE:

• Currently studying towards a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline
• Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• Passion for the Aerospace Industry

NICE TO HAVE:

• Computer Aided Design experience, preferably with Siemens NX
• Experience with DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies
• Knowledge with composite related material properties including resin systems, ablative materials, and sandwich structures
• Experience with composite manufacturing techniques and processes
• Previous internship or project experience in composites or manufacturing engineering

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 with advanced composite materials and manufacturing processes
• 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

Application Deadline: Friday, 28th August 2026

Please note: We will be reviewing and interviewing candidates on a rolling basis as applications are received. We strongly encourage you to submit your application as early as possible, as positions may be filled before the closing date.

Start Date: November 2026

WHAT TO EXPECT:

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.