Neutron Thrust Module Development Intern

Rocket Lab Corporation; Auckland; On-site; NZD 17,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Rocket Lab in Auckland, NZ, is seeking a Development Engineering Intern to join the Neutron Mechanical team working on the Thrust Module. You will design, test, and build components across structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal domains while collaborating with analysis and manufacturing engineers.

You'll gain hands-on experience performing development and qualification tests, refining designs to meet functional requirements, and contributing to space technology projects with real impact.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or advanced degree in aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering.
• 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 judgments.
• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Produce and rapidly iterate CAD designs for structures and mechanisms across Neutron's Thrust Module.
• Identify and solve technical challenges to keep projects moving safely and quickly.
• Feed test outcomes back into the design and manufacturing process for continuous improvement.
• Support testing of structures and mechanisms, including composites and metals.
• Develop test plans, monitor tests, and document data to verify requirements.
• Produce test jigs and fixtures for fabrication and development testing.
• Contribute to building structures and mechanisms across Neutron's Thrust Module.
• Author work instructions for building.
• Work under pressure to meet tight deadlines.
• Collaborate with engineers across disciplines.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas.
• Ensure health and safety policies are followed.

Skills

Aerospace Eng / Mechanical Eng / Mech‑

Under pressure

Teamwork

Communication

Analytical thinking

Decision making

Passion for aerospace

Education

Bachelor's degree in aerospace/mechanical/mechatronic engineering

Master's degree in aerospace/mechanical/mechatronic engineering

Advanced degree in related field

Job description

Rocket Lab in Auckland, NZ, is seeking a Development Engineering Intern to join the Neutron Mechanical team working on the Thrust Module. You will design, test, and build components across structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal domains while collaborating with analysis and manufacturing engineers.

You'll gain hands-on experience performing development and qualification tests, refining designs to meet functional requirements, and contributing to space technology projects with real impact.