Systems Engineering Intern

**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

**ABOUT THE TEAM**:
Rocket Lab is a global leader in space exploration, and our Neutron rocket is at the forefront of aerospace innovation. The Neutron Systems Engineering team plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of our projects, especially as we prepare for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) onboarding. With hardware arriving and vehicle integration underway, this is an incredibly exciting time to join our team and contribute to a project with a high leverage impact.

**YOUR MISSION**:
As a Systems Engineering Intern, you will be an integral part of the Neutron Systems Engineering team, supporting the development and integration of the Neutron launch vehicle. Your work will directly contribute to our ability to meet customer requirements and bid on a $5 billion pool of US government contracts. Your key responsibilities will include:

- **End-to-End Requirements Mapping**: Map Neutron launch vehicle requirements to verification artifacts, ensuring compliance with customer and contractual obligations.
- **Test Plan Alignment** Ensure that verification plans are mapped appropriately to requirements and satisfy margins per relevant aerospace standards.
- **Failure Modes Effects Analysis (FMEA)**: Conduct FMEA on critical mechanical systems and components to identify and mitigate potential risks.
- **Support Design Trade Studies**: Assist in design trade studies and the development of modification packages for Flights 2-4.

**PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE**:

- Current student enrolled in one of the following fields: Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Physics.
- **Engineering Skills**: Mechanical understanding with some verification or design experience.
- **Communication Skills**: Strong communication and documentation abilities.
- **Requirements Management**: Experience or coursework in requirements management is a plus.

**REQUIREMENT**:
Available to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning November 2025.

**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._

**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