RF Test Engineer Intern
Auckland - New Zealand
Job Summary
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 RF Development team at our Auckland Production Complex. As an RF Test Engineering Intern you will playan important rolein the certification of the RF systems used to support Rocket Labs Neutron launch vehicle.
You will work closely with RF system and RF test engineers to qualify RF components against the demands of re-use and national security programs. This role offers hands-on experience withcutting-edgeRF technology while contributing to the development of ournext-generationlaunch vehicle.
This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that areliterally reachingfor the stars.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
RF Test Engineering:
- Work with a portfolio of RF components including radios amplifiers passives and antennas
- Define test campaigns for RF components based on regulatory and customer requirements
- Collaborate across RF Avionics and Manufacturing teams to develop fit-for-purpose test campaigns
- Adapt or build test assets for executing your test campaigns
- Lead execution of qualification testing including S-parameters noise figure thermal cycling vibration shock and leakage testing
- Support the qualification of RF systems for reusable launch vehicle applications
- Document test results and contribute to technical reports
General Responsibilities:
- Take ownership for completion of tasks personally delivering results
- Commit to and complete tasks within expectedtime frame holding yourself accountable
- Manage your own task list and executeallocatedtasks to assigned deadlines
- Communicate effectively with peers usingappropriate mediums(email tickets meetings)
- Support specific tasks for other teammates when asked and appropriately trained
- Participate inidentifyingbusiness challenges and contributing to solutions
- Ensure health and safety policies and standard operating procedures are followed
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
MUST HAVE:
- Currently pursuing aBachelors degree in Electrical Engineering Electronics Engineering Communications Engineering RF Engineering or equivalent
- Hands-on experience with RF test equipment (signal generators VNAs spectrum analyzers)
- Knowledge of transmission line theory
- Ability to apply engineering and industry concepts and theories
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to navigate technical challenges
- Takes ownership and accountability for task completion by delivering results
- Positive attitude and How can I help mentality
- Self-managed and committed to working in a fast-paced environment
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams
- Can listen and internalize all sides of technical discussions
- Proactive communicator comfortable seeking help when needed to get unblocked
- Professional and positive communication skills
NICE TO HAVE:
- Experience with RFcomponentqualification testing
- Understanding of aerospace RF systems and requirements
- Familiarity with regulatory and customer RF requirements (e.g. FCC RTCA DO-160)
- Experience with environmental testing (thermal vibration shock)
- Knowledge of RF measurement techniques and best practices
- Experience with test automation or scripting
- Familiarity with CAD tools for RF design
- Passion for aerospace space technology and innovation
WHAT WE OFFER
- Hands-on experience working on real aerospace RF systems for launch vehicles
- Mentorship from world-class RF and avionics engineers
- Exposure tocutting-edgeRF technology and testing methodologies
- Professional development opportunities in the space industry
- Collaborative and innovative work environment at our Auckland Production Complex
- Direct contribution to Rocket Labs Neutronlaunchvehicle program
- Experience working on reusable launch vehicle technology and national security programs
- Opportunity to contribute to missions that make a difference
- Potential pathway to future career opportunities at Rocket Lab
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Domestic and international travel may berequired
- Must be able to wear correct PPE in designated areas
- Must report near-misses and incidents promptly
- Additionalduties as reasonablyrequired
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.
Required Experience:
Intern
About Company
The end-to-end space company delivering reliable launch services, spacecraft, satellite components.