Development Engineering Intern Neutron Thermal Protection Systems

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 humanitys 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 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 serviceswerepushing the boundaries ofwhatspossible in aerospace.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Werelooking for a motivated intern to join our Neutron Thermal Protection Systems team in Auckland. This role providesadditionalcapacity for progression and completion of several goals within the Thermal Protection Systems Team. You will work oncutting-edgethermal protection technologies for Neutron Rocket Labs 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 areliterally reachingfor 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

• Identifyand 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 teams 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 testmethodologyand procedureswhereidentified

• 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 communicationand 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

• Previousinternship 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 tocutting-edgerocket 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 yousubmita 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 tosubmityour application as early as possible as positions may be filled before the closing date.

Start Date:November 2026

WHAT TO EXPECT

Were on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth but thats 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 others 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 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.