Systems Engineering Intern

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

Rocket Lab seeks a Systems Engineering Intern to help develop Neutron: Rocket Lab's medium lift, reusable launch vehicle capable of human spaceflight.

Launch your career with one of the most exciting internship opportunities in New Zealand! We are looking for an engineering student in their final year of study interested in gaining industry experience in Systems Engineering.

Systems Engineers are great communicators who excel in interdisciplinary collaboration: working across teams to structure and execute design trades; define clear, verifiable requirements; and support the delivery of products that exceed these requirements through test, integration, and launch.

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

• Working closely with your mentor and other employees within the department to apply your knowledge and grow your skills both technically and professionally

• Supporting the creation, management and documentation of system architectures and their use cases

• Supporting multi-disciplinary design teams in the elicitation of requirements and their organization in the Requirements Tool environment

• Working with all stakeholders to ensure the design as expressed through requirements is compliant with applicable standards, achieves the appropriate level of safety, and matches the internal and external expectations of its stakeholders

• Assist in documenting and managing system interfaces between stakeholder groups involved in the Neutron project

• Support the maintenance and organisation of the project and systems requirements, ensuring they are up-to-date and well-documented

• Assess and communicate system status relative to required performance

• Uphold the verification process across design teams, ensuring consistency with the Neutron verification strategy

• Perform verification tests as needed to support Neutron development, documenting results in line with project processes

• Support the management of technical data, ensuring quality and clarity for data exchanged between teams and published externally

• Contribute to identifying key system interactions, managing stakeholder input, and driving towards informed decisions

• Where required, document the breakdown of the project into logical systems and subsystems

• Contribute to integration activity to bring together the final product

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

• Be in your final year of study in an Engineering degree (Bachelors, Masters, PhD)

• Be in good academic standing with a minimum B+ Grade point average or higher

• Have 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

• Be capable of being self-managed and committed to working in a fast-paced environment

• Have proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships with colleagues and engineering professionals

• Ability to work with a multi-disciplinary team

• Be highly organized. See the bigger picture but also pay attention to the detail

• Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

NICE TO HAVE:

• Experience in modern systems engineering practices and tools

• Strong understanding of fundamental physical principles (i.e. heat transfer, electronics, mechanics of materials etc.)

• Experience within one/some of the following fields (Mechanical, Propulsion, Avionics, Software, GNC, Operations, Testing)

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

• Growth mindset. Strong desire for continuous learning

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 a reusable launch vehicle capable of human spaceflight

• 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