Mechanical Development Intern

JobSpace; Auckland; On-site; NZD 17,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hands-on aerospace experience

Mentorship from engineers

Exposure to propulsion systems

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland is seeking a Mechanical Development Intern to join our Electron mechanical design team. You will support engineers on Rutherford engines and Stage 3 propulsion systems, contributing to propulsion performance improvements and weight reduction efforts.

Under the guidance of senior engineers, you’ll help set qualification requirements, assist in testing and prototyping, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to advance real space technology projects that push payload

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or advanced degree in Mechanical or Aerospace engineering.
• Hands-on prototyping experience through project teams, labs, or internships.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to take ownership and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Support engineers on Rutherford engine and Stage 3 propulsion projects.
• Assist in defining qualification requirements for propulsion systems.
• Help implement testing and validation of designs.
• Collaborate with mechanical design, propulsion, manufacturing, and integration teams.
• Contribute ideas and design solutions to propulsion challenges.
• Participate in hands-on prototyping and development activities.
• Ensure tasks are completed on schedule under leadership direction.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Proactive communicator

Collaborative mindset

Hands-on prototyping

Self-motivated

Education

Bachelor's/Master's in Mechanical or Aerospace

Tools

CAD software (SolidWorks / 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.

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Electron mechanical design team in Auckland. As a Mechanical Development Intern, you will play a key role supporting engineers working on the Rutherford engines and Stage 3 propulsion system.

This internship is a critical part of our Mass to Orbit project, aimed at increasing payload capacity and optimizing propulsion performance for the Electron launch vehicle. You'll implement design solutions for weight reduction and enhanced engine performance that directly benefit final payload mass to orbit.

Working with senior engineers, you'll help set appropriate qualification requirements for propulsion systems and implement the testing required to validate these cutting-edge designs.

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

• Implement design solutions for weight reduction or increased engine performance that benefit final payload mass to orbit
• Work with senior engineers to set appropriate qualification requirements for propulsion systems
• Implement and support testing protocols required for system qualification
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, propulsion, manufacturing engineering, and vehicle integration
• Take ownership for completion of tasks and projects by delivering results
• Participate in hands-on prototyping and development activities
• Contribute innovative ideas and design solutions to propulsion system challenges
• Ensure clear understanding of tasks and priorities assigned by leadership
• Support the ongoing development and optimization of the Rutherford engine and Stage 3 systems

What We Are Looking For

MUST HAVE:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering program
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Hands-on experience with prototyping through engineering project teams, lab research, or through a prior relevant internship or work experience
• Proactive communicator, comfortable seeking clarification and feedback
• Collaborative mindset with ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams
• Takes ownership and accountability for task completion by delivering results
• Positive attitude and approachable demeanor
• Self-managed and committed to working in a fast-paced environment
• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

NICE TO HAVE:

• Interest and knowledge in rocket propulsion systems
• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, NX, or similar)
• Understanding of materials selection and structural analysis
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and design for manufacturing principles
• Experience with testing and qualification methodologies
• Knowledge of aerospace materials and manufacturing techniques

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 propulsion systems
• Direct contribution to increasing Electron's payload capacity
• 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