Manufacturing Engineering Intern - Vehicle Integration

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 Manufacturing Engineering team in Auckland. In this role, you'll gain hands-on experience in the Launch Vehicle manufacturing process, while supporting the team with various improvement projects, risk assessments and daily issue management.

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

• Assist in facilitating and optimizing Launch Vehicle system tests and production processes to meet stringent launch schedules in a high-growth manufacturing environment

• Support production improvement projects including tooling design, process development, and creation of work instructions for production technicians

• Conduct Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (P-FMEA) and support daily issue management and risk assessments for manufacturing processes

• Collaborate with Engineers, Technicians, and subject matter experts across multiple departments on Launch Vehicle integration and manufacturing optimization projects

• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas to improve manufacturing efficiency and quality

• Implement 5S and Lean Manufacturing practices on the production floor to maintain organized, efficient workspaces

• Create and interpret technical documentation including mechanical drawings, work instructions, and process documents (with supervision)

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

• Currently working towards a BS, MS, or an advanced degree in a relevant engineering program with a Mechanical background.

• You must be self-managed and committed to working in a fast-paced environment.

• Hands-on experience through engineering project teams, lab research, or through a prior relevant internship or work experience.

• Professional and positive communication skills.

• Able to work with external companies independently.

• Able to read, interpret create mechanical drawings

• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

• Eligibility to work in New Zealand or apply for a visa to allow you to

NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience in 5S, Kaizen, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma principles

• Experience with one or more of the following:

• Manufacturing principles

• Process failure mode and effects analysis (PMFEA)

• Pneumatic/Hydraulic systems

• Hands-on skills with Manufacturing methods

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

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 [email protected] 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.