Development Intern - Ion Propulsion

Development Intern - Ion Propulsion

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 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.

Rocket Lab Space Systems started with the CAPSTONE mission in support of NASA's Artemis program, launching a satellite into a unique Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit around the moon. Then we became just the second company to successfully complete re-entry from orbit, enabling microgravity manufacturing for the first time. Soon we're going to Mars! Designing and building spacecraft to undertake a groundbreaking science missions with the University of California Berkeley and NASA. We manufacture single bespoke satellites for highly complex missions, through to entire constellations. And we're unique in offering vertical integration with our in-house satellite components too. This means we can move fast, design and build components exactly the way we want them and constantly innovate.

Our Space Systems team does the impossible, taking on the most challenging and rewarding missions - and we're only just getting started! This role offers a rare opportunity to be part of our growing team. You will collaborate with exceptionally talented and dedicated people, pushing boundaries, and reshaping what is possible – together.

As an Ion Propulsion Avionics Intern, you'll play a hands-on role in the development, qualification, and production of cutting-edge avionics hardware for space-based ion propulsion systems. Working closely with experienced engineers and technicians, you'll contribute directly to mission-critical systems, developing real hardware and software that will fly in space.

This is a high-impact internship where you won't just observe—you'll build, test, debug, and improve systems used on real missions. You'll be part of a multidisciplinary team working at the forefront of space technology.

What You'll Get To Do:

• Support full-lifecycle development of electronic systems: requirements, design, prototyping, schematic capture, PCB layout, testing, and production.
• Develop and test sub-circuits (digital, analog, power) for use in extreme environments.
• Assist in the creation and maintenance of component libraries in Altium Vault.
• Conduct testing campaigns for flight and ground support avionics.
• Assist in failure investigations and root-cause analysis.
• Develop automation tools in Python and/or C/C++ for testing and data collection.
• Support manufacturing, calibration, and commissioning of test equipment.
• Document procedures, contribute to peer reviews, and support test system training.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures.

What You'll Gain:

• Hands-on experience working on flight hardware.
• Mentorship from leading engineers in space propulsion systems.
• An opportunity to make real contributions to space missions—including Mars exploration.
• A fast-paced, high-growth, and deeply collaborative environment.

You'll Bring These Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or master's program in Electrical Engineering or a related field with an electrical focus.
• Strong interest in electronics, embedded systems, and space hardware.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Team-oriented with a proactive, problem-solving mindset.
• Demonstrated ownership of projects and tasks.
• Able to work hands-on in a lab environment.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have:

• Experience with student projects (e.g., Rocketry, FSAE, CubeSats).
• Familiarity with Altium Designer, Python, C/C++, or embedded systems.
• Understanding of test equipment (oscilloscopes, power supplies, serial interfaces, etc.).
• Knowledge of microcontrollers, FPGAs, and digital/analog circuit design.
• Exposure to National Instruments platforms (DAQ, PXI, cRIO).
• Familiarity with mechanical design tools (e.g., Siemens NX).

Ready to launch your engineering career into orbit? Join Rocket Lab's Ion Propulsion team and help power the future of space travel.