Guidance Navigation and Controls 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**:
**WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO**:
As a GNC Intern, you will dive into a critical project focused on the Electron kickstage. After deploying its payload, the Electron kickstage often performs a de-orbit burn to reduce its orbital lifetime and help keep space free of debris. However, there are instances where this burn is skipped due to predicted poor controllability. Your mission will be to:

- **Root Cause Analysis**: Determine what causes the Electron kickstage to become unstable during the de-orbit burn.
- **Mitigation Strategies**: Identify and develop ways to mitigate the instability issue.
- **Automation Tool Development**: Develop a tool to automate the corrective actions, ensuring reliable and stable de-orbit burns.

**PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE**:

- Current student pursuing a degree in Aerospace/Aeronautical/Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Physics.
- Strong understanding of dynamics.
- Knowledge of orbital mechanics.
- Proficiency in Python and MATLAB.
- Experience with C++.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- Attention to detail and a proactive approach to learning and development.

**WHY JOIN US?**
- **Hands-On Experience**: Gain practical experience in GNC systems, working on real-world challenges that impact the success of our missions.
- **Professional Growth**: Develop your skills and knowledge in a supportive and innovative environment.
- **Broad Exposure**: Work on a variety of projects and interact with different aspects of rocket design and operations.
- **Impactful Work**: Contribute to projects that play a crucial role in maintaining the sustainability of space operations.

**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 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 the