Mechanical Development Intern: Propulsion for Spacecraft

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 18,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Hands-on projects

Propulsion exposure

Career opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

Rocket Lab Corporation in Auckland seeks a Mechanical Development Intern to support engineers on Rutherford engines and Stage 3 propulsion, as part of the Mass to Orbit project. You will develop design solutions for weight reduction and engine performance, assisting with qualification and testing to boost payload capacity.

You will work with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, gaining hands-on prototyping experience and contributing to real space technology milestones.

Qualifications

• 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Hands-on prototyping

Proactive communicator

Cross-functional collaboration

Ownership & accountability

Self-management

Passion for aerospace

Education

Bachelor's/Master's or advanced degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CAD software (SolidWorks/NX)

Job description

Rocket Lab Corporation in Auckland seeks a Mechanical Development Intern to support engineers on Rutherford engines and Stage 3 propulsion, as part of the Mass to Orbit project. You will develop design solutions for weight reduction and engine performance, assisting with qualification and testing to boost payload capacity.

You will work with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, gaining hands-on prototyping experience and contributing to real space technology milestones.