Ground Systems Engineering Intern - Electron

About the role

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

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 Ground Systems Engineering team in Auckland. As an Intern with our Ground Systems Engineering team you will be involved in the design, build, test and commissioning of structures and mechanisms for our launch sites, test sites and mobile equipment. You will also be involved in project planning and working closely with technicians to ensure projects are delivered on time and to specification.

As a member of Ground Systems Team Y you will be focused on developing the facilities and equipment required to support the Electron Launch System and Space systems.

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

Technical Skills (with supervision):

Design of systems including launch vehicle transporters, erectors, and launchers, spacecraft handling equipment, and ground support tooling

2D & 3D modelling using CAD software

System sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods

Generate & maintain schematics of mechanical systems e.g. Hydraulic schematics, P&IDs, connection diagrams

Develop and maintain BOMs

Interact with suppliers and internal teams

Support certification of launch pad systems where applicable

Support test program development

Willingness to get your hands dirty during project build phases

Operations Support (with supervision):

Develop and execute test plans to validate the performance of launch pad systems and vehicle interfaces

Design, develop and maintain test equipment

Post-flight and post-test data analysis

Collaborate with test and ops team to ensure systems are operational

Support pad technicians remotely or in person during installation, commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting activities

Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline

Strong 3D CAD skills (experience with SolidWorks, SolidEdge, or similar)

Ability to perform engineering calculations and analysis

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team

Willingness to take a hands-on approach during project build phases

Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

NICE TO HAVE:

Experience with hydraulic and pneumatic systems

Familiarity with creating P&IDs and system schematics

Experience with test equipment design and development

Knowledge of structural analysis and mechanical design principles

Previous internship or project experience in mechanical engineering or aerospace

Hands-on fabrication or prototyping experience

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 work on launch pad systems and ground support equipment

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.

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.