Development Engineering Intern - Neutron Thrust Module

Job Description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

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.

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We're opening access to space to improve life on Earth through our Electron rocket and Neutron launch vehicle programs, alongside our space systems business. From pioneering carbon composite rocket technology to delivering reliable and rapid launch services, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aerospace.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Neutron Mechanical team in Auckland. As a Development Engineering Intern on the Neutron Thrust Module, you'll work across a broad set of vehicle domains including structural, mechanical, fluid, and thermal systems.

You'll collaborate directly with analysis and manufacturing engineers to produce concepts, detailed designs, and drawing packages for metallic and composite components & assemblies. You'll also be hands-on in performing development and qualification tests, refining designs, and ensuring Neutron's materials, components, and assemblies meet their functional and performance requirements.

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

Design

• Produce and rapidly iterate conceptual designs in CAD for structures and mechanisms across Neutron's Thrust Module

• Proactively identify and solve technical challenges to allow projects to proceed safely and at pace

• Feed testing outcomes back into the design and manufacture process to promote continuous improvement

• Produce design documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs, etc.

Test

• Support the testing of structures and mechanisms, including composites and metallic components, and integrated structural, mechanical and fluids assemblies

• Develop test plans, monitor test activities, and post-process and document test data to verify functional and performance requirements

• Produce test jigs/fixtures to aid with fabrication, assembly, and development testing of components & assemblies

Build

• Contribute to the build of structures and mechanisms across Neutron's Thrust Module

• Author work instructions for building

Additional Responsibilities

• Work under pressure to meet tight deadlines

• Collaborate with engineers and team members across multiple disciplines

• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

• Ensure health and safety policies and procedures are followed

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or advanced degree in aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering or equivalent qualification

• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines<span data-ccp-prop