Ground Systems Mechanical Engineering Intern - Neutron
Rocket Lab · Auckland, New Zealand · 1mo ago
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
Join our innovative Ground Systems Engineering (GSE) team at Rocket Lab! Our team of about 35 talented engineers is divided into mechanical, electrical, software, and project teams, all working on projects that take our vehicles from the production floor to space. We develop a wide variety of systems, including the design and build of test sites, launch sites, and support equipment. These systems encompass many different sub-systems such as cryogenics, high-pressure gases, power systems, UPS, control hardware, and the software to run it all. While we don't specifically work on the rockets, we are fortunate to engage with a wide variety of ever-changing and diverse projects.
As a Mechanical GSE Intern, you'll have the unique opportunity to support and take ownership of projects related to Neutron payload handling equipment.
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
Project Ownership:
- Manage supplier relationships and update project schedules
- Implement design changes and improvements through mechanical/structural calculations and CAD
- Supervise construction and verify assembly
- Integrate systems on the test rig and conduct hydraulic and mechanical testing to ensure performance meets requirements
- Perform data analysis and compile test reports
Comprehensive System Management:
- Gain a 360° view over the mechanical system, from design to construction, integration, and testing (APC, PTC)
Team Collaboration:
- Interact and collaborate with experienced mechanical engineers, learning sound engineering practices and their applications
Skill Development:
- Enhance your skills in communication, CAD, mechanical design, logistics, testing, data review and presentation, and commissioning
- Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
MUST HAVE:
- Current student pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechatronics Engineering
- Knowledge of Mechanics of Materials, Engineering Design, Fluid Dynamics, and Mechanics of Machines
- Experience with Hand Calculations, Siemens NX, and Solidworks
- Proficiency in Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM)
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation
NICE TO HAVE:
- Previous internship or project experience in mechanical engineering or ground systems
- Experience with hydraulic systems and testing
- Knowledge of structural analysis
- Experience with supplier management and project scheduling
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 and spacecraft systems
- Opportunity to take ownership of projects related to Neutron payload handling equipment
- Broad exposure to a variety of projects and sub-systems
- 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
HOW TO APPLY
Please ensure you submit a cover letter, detailing why you are interested in the specific role you have applied for. Please make sure to cite a project/experience/hobby that is relevant to the role. Feel free to be creative and stand out in your application and introduction to the team at Rocket Lab. Be sure to include relevant experience/personal or school projects you have completed that align with this role and why you believe you would be the best candidate for this role.
Application Deadline: Friday, 28th August 2026
Please note: We will be reviewing and interviewing candidates on a rolling basis as applications are received. We strongly encourage you to submit your application as early as possible, as positions may be filled before the closing date.
Start Date: November 2026
WHAT TO EXPECT
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.
Important information:
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 contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.