Systems Engineering Intern Summer 2027

Rocket Lab Corporation; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 33,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Stock Purchase Program

Relocation stipend

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

Rocket Lab is seeking a Systems Engineering Intern is based at our Pasadena, California site. You will support hands-on integration and testing of robotic and motion-control systems, set up test hardware, operate robotics, collect data, troubleshoot, and document results for verification deliverables.

You will work with mentors to grow technically and professionally, in a fast-paced team focused on solving challenges and delivering results.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree program in a related engineering discipline and has at least one semester remaining post internship.
• GPA 3.0 or above.
• 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internships, labs, projects).

Responsibilities

• Support hands-on integration and testing, including setting up test hardware and operating robotic systems.
• Execute test procedures, collect and analyze data, troubleshoot issues, and document results.
• Help prepare verification and customer deliverables for programs.

Education

Candidate in Bachelor's/Master's/PhD program

Tools

MATLAB

ROS 2

LabVIEW

Job description

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

As aSystemsEngineering Intern based at Rocket Lab’s site inPasadena, California, you will have the opportunity to supporthands-on integration and testing which includes setting up test hardware, operating robotic systems, executing test procedures, collecting and analyzing data, troubleshooting issues, documenting results, and helping prepare verification and customer deliverable This Systems Engineering team supports the development, integration, and verification of robotic and motion-control systems for active customer programs.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• As an intern, you will work closely with your mentor and other employees within the department to apply your knowledge and grow your skills both technically and professionally
• Work with a fast-paced group of professionals to apply engineering and industry concepts to solvereal challenges
• Attend frequent 1:1’s with mentors and supervisors tofacilitatesuccess and learning while providing progress updates
• Enjoy tech talks and network with other interns and employees through social and professional events

YOU’LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

• Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in small, high-performing teams that are focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by the knowledge and experience you bring to the role, your ability to lead development projects without supervision, and your ability to successfully collaborate across teams to deliver results.
• Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master's or doctorate degree program in aComputer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering,RoboticEngineering,or relateddiscipline and have at least one semester of school remaining post internship
• GPA of 3.0 or above
• 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• GPA of 3.5 or above
• 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)
• Experience withrobotics,motion control, electromechanical systems, or embedded systems
• MATLAB, ROS 2, and LabView experience

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginningMay and June 2027

COMPENSATION AND OTHER BENEFITS

• Pay Rate: $28.00 USD Hourly

You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Hourly Pay Range (CA Only)

$28 - $28 USD

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.

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