RF Test Engineer Intern
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
We're looking for a motivated intern to join our RF Development team at our Auckland Production Complex. As an RF Test Engineering Intern, you will play an important role in the certification of the RF systems used to support Rocket Lab's Neutron launch vehicle.
You will work closely with RF system and RF test engineers to qualify RF components against the demands of re-use and national security programs. This role offers hands-on experience with cutting-edge RF technology while contributing to the development of our next-generation launch vehicle.
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
RF Test Engineering:
- Work with a portfolio of RF components, including radios, amplifiers, passives, and antennas
- Define test campaigns for RF components based on regulatory and customer requirements
- Collaborate across RF, Avionics, and Manufacturing teams to develop fit-for-purpose test campaigns
- Adapt or build test assets for executing your test campaigns
- Lead execution of qualification testing, including S-parameters, noise figure, thermal cycling, vibration, shock, and leakage testing
- Support the qualification of RF systems for reusable launch vehicle applications
- Document test results and contribute to technical reports
General Responsibilities:
- Take ownership for completion of tasks personally delivering results
- Commit to and complete tasks within expected time frame, holding yourself accountable
- Manage your own task list and execute allocated tasks to assigned deadlines
- Communicate effectively with peers using appropriate mediums (email, tickets, meetings)
- Support specific tasks for other teammates when asked and appropriately trained
- Participate in identifying business challenges and contributing to solutions
- Ensure health and safety policies and standard operating procedures are followed
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
MUST HAVE:
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Communications Engineering, RF Engineering, or equivalent
- Hands-on experience with RF test equipment (signal generators, VNAs, spectrum analyzers)
- Knowledge of transmission line theory
- Ability to apply engineering and industry concepts and theories
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to navigate technical challenges
- Takes ownership and accountability for task completion by delivering results
- Positive attitude and "How can I help?" mentality
- Self-managed and committed to working in a fast-paced environment
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams
- Can listen and internalize all sides of technical discussions
- Proactive communicator, comfortable seeking help when needed to get unblocked
- Professional and positive communication skills
NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience with RF component qualification testing
- Understanding of aerospace RF systems and requirements
- Familiarity with regulatory and customer RF requirements (e.g., FCC, RTCA DO-160)
- Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock)
- Knowledge of RF measurement techniques and best practices
- Experience with test automation or scripting
- Familiarity with CAD tools for RF design
- Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation
WHAT WE OFFER
- Hands-on experience working on real aerospace RF systems for launch vehicles
- Mentorship from world-class RF and avionics engineers
- Exposure to cutting-edge RF technology and testing methodologies
- Professional development opportunities in the space industry
- Collaborative and innovative work environment at our Auckland Production Complex
- Direct contribution to Rocket Lab's Neutron launch vehicle program
- Experience working on reusable launch vehicle technology and national security programs
- Opportunity to contribute to missions that make a difference
- Potential pathway to future career opportunities at Rocket Lab
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Domestic and international travel may be required
- Must be able to wear correct PPE in designated areas
- Must report near-misses and incidents promptly
- Additional duties as reasonably required
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.
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.