Ground Systems Engineering Intern - Instrumentation & Control
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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 rocket has 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 ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We're opening 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 services, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aerospace.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We're looking for a motivated intern to join our HITL (Hardware-in-the-Loop) team in Auckland. You will maintain and build control systems that enable Rocket Lab Ground Systems to build world class Facilities, to launch and test our Electron and Neutron Launch vehicles faster than they are produced. Your skill will aid both operational and design functions.
As such you are part of a team that continuously improves. In this spirit you are going to start implementing HITL tests, to verify that failure modes are repeatedly bringing a favourable outcome in simulation. We do that to make sure that the software lives up to the same high standard in every release.
Under this program you have the opportunity to take one of these improvements and develop them into a tool under the guidance of a senior/principal engineer. Your collaboration will help optimise the team's time and enable knowledge transfer over generations of engineers.
This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that are literally reaching for the stars.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Software Development:
- Ownership of a smaller project
- Part of sprint team: Follow style and function guidance of system architect
- Complete assigned sprint work within time allocated (Do what we say we do)
- Build basic models for fault scenarios activating our Hardware in the loop setup to test fault scenarios
- Automate the testing and failure search
- 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 a degree in Mechatronics or comparable discipline
- Knowledge of at least two different types of programming languages
- Ability to work in fast paced, self-driven environment
- Ability to find software bugs fast, using multiple approaches in parallel
- Industrial sensoric
- Physical understanding of systems
- Understanding of simulation and hardware in the loop systems
- Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
- Knowledge of robotics and automation
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation
NICE TO HAVE:
- Structured Text
- Object oriented programming
- Python
- C++
- Previous internship or project experience in software development or control systems
WHAT WE OFFER
- Hands-on experience working on real aerospace and space technology projects
- Mentorship from world-class engineers and industry professionals
- Exposure to cutting-edge rocket and spacecraft systems
- Opportunity to work with Hardware-in-the-Loop testing systems
- 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 you submit a 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 to submit your application as early as possible, as positions may be filled before the closing date.
Start Date: November 2026
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.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.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.
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