Manufacturing Engineering Intern Composites

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services complete spacecraft design and manufacturing payloads satellite components and more all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 rockethas become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit all while we work to develop Neutron our upcoming medium-lift reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites payloads and their components including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Werelooking for a motivated intern to join our Composites Manufacturing Engineering team in Auckland. The primary purpose of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern is to support production activities related to the Launch Vehicle within a high-growth production environment ensuring manufacturing principles arepractisedto a high standard and ensuring stringent launch times can be achieved.

This position will support the Lead Manufacturing Engineer with their deliverables. The role will also work closely and develop strong relationships with Engineers Technicians and subject matter experts across a range of departments to enable the build and testing of launch vehicles.

Regular activities of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern include reviewing and processing non-conformance documents providing support to develop andoptimiseprocessestoolsand equipment for production. Supporting the composite team members during implementation of process changes through prototypingtestingand validation. They will also support the Manufacturing Engineering team with various other improvement projects risk assessments daily issue management and 5S related tasks.

This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that areliterally reachingfor the stars.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

General:

• Implement production processes through validation & verification to achieve right first time repeatability and high yield

• Creation of clear technical documentation to support Production

• Work alongside technicians to develop and improve Work Instructions

• Design and develop tooling/equipment with stakeholders ensuring requirements are captured and delivered

• Mitigate risk within current processes

• Conduct root cause investigations as part of the integrated project team

• Self-manage tasks and project milestones

Project:

• Deliver right first-time project implementation

• Communicate major milestones and any potential risk

• Coordinate resources needed to complete project implementation

• Support Continuous improvement projects

Problem Solving:

• Support project teams with practical problem-solving activities and promote the zero defect mindset

• Collaborate with engineerstechniciansand subject matter experts across multiple departments

• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE:

• Currently studying towards aBachelorsdegree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering Mechatronics Engineering or related discipline

• Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes

• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively

• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team

• Passion for the Aerospace Industry

NICE TO HAVE:

• Computer Aided Design experience preferably with Siemens NX

• Experience with DFMEA PFMEA methodologies

• Knowledge with composite related material properties including resin systems ablative materials and sandwich structures

• Experience with composite manufacturing techniques and processes

• Previousinternship or project experience in composites or manufacturing engineering

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 with advanced composite materials and manufacturing processes

• 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.