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
Neutron is Rocket Lab's new, medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle currently under development. The Neutron Avionics department is responsible for the delivery of all avionics systems across the vehicle, including integrated avionics hardware, flight software, and Neutron's Flight Safety System (FSS).
The Neutron FSS team is responsible for high-level FSS design, component qualification, acceptance testing, and certification activities for the Neutron rocket. A core part of the Neutron FSS is the safety-critical Autonomous Flight Termination System, which uses avionics hardware designed and produced in-house at our Auckland Production Complex. The team is small, agile, and possesses a winning combination of sharp technical knowledge and flawless attention to detail. A unique aspect of this team is its close working relationship with US regulatory agencies such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and NASA.
We're looking for a motivated and technically minded intern interested in the functional testing and qualification of avionics systems for the launch environment, including the planning and execution of test campaigns across thermal, vacuum, and high vibration conditions. This role would suit a detail-oriented person with an electrical or mechatronic engineering skillset and experience writing Python code.
This internship will occur at an exciting time in the development phase of Neutron, with many prototype systems being integrated and tested for the first time. While the focus of your project will be on the Flight Termination System, you will be a valued member of the Neutron Avionics department as a whole, gaining exposure to the electrical architecture across the entire launch vehicle.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Avionics Test Engineering:
- Develop, plan, and execute test campaigns for avionics components, ensuring test requirements are fully met
- Collaborate with design engineers and external stakeholders to generate and document test requirements based on system functional requirements
- Conduct the development and verification of analytical and empirical models for electrical systems
- Complete component risk analysis, failure mode analysis, implement design for test, and perform root-cause analysis of test anomalies
Automated Test and Data Systems:
- Develop modular, reusable, test architectures for automated testing of mission-critical and safety-critical avionics components
- Develop automation software (e.g. using Python, C, or C++) to interact with units-under-test, automated test equipment, and production systems
- Contribute to the development of data automation tools for automated test equipment and reporting
- Create documentation for procedures, maintenance, and calibration of new test systems
- Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
MUST HAVE:
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline
- Experience writing Python code
- Detail-oriented with strong attention to accuracy and precision
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- 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:
- Experience with automated test equipment and test system development
- Familiarity with C or C++ programming
- Knowledge of avionics systems and flight safety requirements
- Experience with data analysis and reporting tools
- Understanding of thermal, vacuum, and vibration testing environments
- Previous internship or project experience in avionics or test engineering
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 with safety-critical systems and regulatory agencies
- 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.