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 - Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment - Sound analytical skills and the ability to see the big picture, making connections and appropriate decisions - Tenacity, a can-do attitude, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements - Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation **NICE TO HAVE:** - Experience in one or more of the following domain areas: - Cryogenic systems - Pressurised systems - Mechanical moving assemblies - Fluid systems - Hands-on composites manufacturing experience - Hands-on metallic fabrication experience - CAD proficiency **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 - 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**