Development Intern - Ion Propulsion

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is an integrated space enterprise providing end-to-end launch solutions, satellite design and production, component development, and payload services. Our focus is to make space accessible, supporting significant missions in scientific research, Earth monitoring, climate action, national defense, and innovative technology demonstration. Our Electron rocket ranks as the second most launched US rocket annually, having orbited over 230 satellites. We are also advancing the Neutron medium-lift reusable rocket for deploying large constellations. Our Space Systems division delivers satellites and components selected for high-profile NASA missions to the Moon and Mars, as well as contributions to the James Webb Space Telescope.

Team and Opportunity

Our Space Systems group undertakes pioneering projects, such as the CAPSTONE mission supporting NASA's Artemis initiative, and is preparing for Mars missions with top universities and NASA. We produce bespoke satellites for intricate missions and entire satellite constellations. In-house component manufacturing enables agility and innovation. Joining this team offers a rare chance to work on challenging, impactful space missions alongside exceptional professionals.

Role Description

The position involves supporting the development and testing of the Gauss electric propulsion system within the Ion Propulsion team. Responsibilities include hands-on work with hardware, collaborating with engineers and technicians, and making tangible contributions toward systems that will be used in upcoming space missions. The role includes building, testing, debugging, and enhancing flight hardware and related technology.

Key Duties

• Assist in development, qualification, and acceptance testing of Gauss system components and the full assembly.
• Design, procure, assemble, and commission instruments, tooling, and test setups.
• Conduct mechanical and fluidic evaluations, including setup, data gathering, and analysis.
• Support maintenance, modification, and troubleshooting of vacuum chambers and ground support equipment for Hall thruster testing.
• Create design and testing documentation including FMEA, P&IDs, ICDs.
• Identify and escalate quality and continuous improvement issues.

Benefits and Learning

• Gain practical experience working with flight hardware.
• Receive mentorship from leading propulsion engineers.
• Contribute to high-profile space missions including Mars exploration.
• Work in a dynamic, collaborative, and fast-paced environment.

Candidate Profile

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in mechatronics engineering, engineering physics, or related fields with an electrical engineering emphasis.
• Strong fundamentals and interest in both electrical and mechanical engineering disciplines.
• Experience with manufacturing or testing hardware.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools like MATLAB, Python, or similar.
• Effective communication and teamwork capabilities.
• Positive, detail-oriented, quick-thinking individual with sound judgment.

Preferred Experience

• Participation in student projects such as rocketry, Formula SAE, or CubeSats.
• Familiarity with high voltage systems, plasma, electric propulsion, or electromagnetics.
• Knowledge of electromechanical actuators and control system tuning/testing.
• Experience with thermal analysis and testing.
• Skills in data acquisition and test automation.
• Industry work experience in fast-paced development settings.

Additional Information

Rocket Lab is committed to unlocking space's potential for life on Earth through relentless innovation, teamwork, and dedication. Our culture values collaboration, respect, and delivering results under pressure.

Security and Compliance Requirements:
US office candidates must comply with ITAR regulations, requiring citizenship or legal clearance as per US government standards. New Zealand applicants will undergo background checks including nationality verification to meet International Traffic in Arms Regulations, limiting eligibility to certain nationalities for access to regulated equipment and data.