Development Engineering Intern - Neutron Thermal Protection Systems

Mechanical & Aerospaceposted 4w ago

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 Thermal Protection Systems team in Auckland. This role provides additional capacity for progression and completion of several goals within the Thermal Protection Systems Team. You will work on cutting-edge thermal protection technologies for Neutron, Rocket Lab's medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle.

This internship also provides a pathway for assessment and upskilling of potential candidates for Junior engineering roles, while building familiarization between the local candidate pool and our organization.

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

MTPS Test & Development:

Conduct thermal testing activities and explore alternative materials for the Metallic Thermal Protection System (MTPS) stack-up

Perform bench-scale torch testing and/or sub-scale integrated article testing under representative thermal environments

Identify and source candidate materials for improved performance, durability, or mass efficiency

Analyse candidate materials and TPS design features for engineering trade studies and performance optimization

Lead the sourcing, integration, and testing of candidate materials using in-house or external thermal testing resources

Materials Characterization:

Evaluation of the thermal response for candidate materials at elevated and cryogenic temperatures

Validate the mechanical and thermal properties of composite, soft goods, metallic, and TPS articles for verification of manufacturing methods and processes

Analyse prototype articles and TPS design features for performance optimization

Thermal Test Facility Design & Upgrade:

Design and implement upgrades to the TPS team's thermal exposure test cells and hardware

Implement improvements to the controls, instrumentation, and DAQ for thermal exposure test cells

Design and deliver integration aids and jigs for manufacture of integrated articles for thermal exposure tests

Define and implement improvements to test methodology and procedures where identified

Collaborate with engineers and team members across multiple departments

Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related discipline

Mechanical design capability and CAD skills

Familiarity with control and data acquisition in LabView

Familiarity with metallic and composite materials manufacturing

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:

Simulation and FEA experience

Experience with Python for data processing and general analysis

Experience with thermal modelling and software tools

Previous internship or project experience in thermal systems or aerospace engineering

Hands-on testing or manufacturing experience

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 thermal protection systems for a reusable launch vehicle

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.