Development Intern - Ion Propulsion

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

SPACE SYSTEMS

Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA's Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we're going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science missions with the University of California Berkeley and NASA. We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we're unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them and constantly innovate.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we're only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible - together.

INTERN - ION PROPULSION AVIONICS

As an intern in the Space Systems Ion Propulsion team at Rocket Lab, you will get to take responsibility for projects supporting the development and testing of the Gauss electric propulsion system. In this role you will work in close collaboration with engineers and technicians, working hands on with hardware and making meaningful contributions to technology that will fly on many different missions in the future. This is a high impact role where you won't just observe - you will build, test, debug, and improve systems used on real missions and flight hardware. Rocket Lab is a place where each individual has real impact on mission success, and many opportunities to do career-defining work.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

• Support the development, qualification, and acceptance testing of the individual components of Gauss, as well as the complete system

• Design, procure, assemble, and commission instrumentation, tooling, and test rigs
• Perform mechanical and fluidics testing of components, including test setup, data collection, and analysis
• Support modifications, maintenance, and debugging on vacuum chamber and GSE systems for hall thruster testing
• Produce design and test documentation, FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs etc.
• Proactively raise issues related to quality and/or continuous improvement

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN:

• Hands-on experience working on flight hardware.
• Mentorship from leading engineers in space propulsion systems.
• An opportunity to make real contributions to space missions-including Mars exploration.
• A fast-paced, high-growth, and deeply collaborative environment.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or master's program in mechatronics engineering, engineering physics, or a related field with an electrical focus.
• Interest in electrical and mechanical engineering with strong grasp of the fundamentals of both

• Hands-on experience with manufacturing and/or testing hardware
• Experience with data analysis tools such as MATLAB, Python, or similar
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work well within a team environment
• A can-do attitude, high attention to detail, and the ability to think quickly and make accurate judgements

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience with student projects (e.g., Rocketry, FSAE, CubeSats).
• Experience working with high voltage, plasma, electric propulsion, or electromagnetics

• Experience with electromechanical actuators, tuning and testing dynamic control systems
• Experience with thermal analysis and testing methodologies
• Experience with data acquisition systems and test automation
• Industry work experience in a fast-paced development environment

Ready to launch your engineering career into orbit? Join Rocket Lab's Ion Propulsion team and help power the future of space travel.