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 humanity’s 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 THE ROLE

We're looking for a motivated Electrical Engineering Intern to join our Ground Systems Engineering team in Auckland.

As an Electrical Engineering Intern on our Ground Systems Engineering team, you will assist in designing, building, testing, and commissioning launch pad systems and their associated infrastructure. Your responsibilities will include supporting tasks related to power system supply and distribution, instrumentation and control systems design, and launch vehicle communications.

You'll gain hands-on experience across the full project lifecycle – from conceptualisation and detailed design through to construction, commissioning, and operation – all under the guidance of senior 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

Design & Analysis (with supervision)

Design, draft, and analyse launch range electrical systems and facilities, including:
Power systems: generators, UPS, switchgear, distribution, and monitoring
Lightning protection and site grounding
Lighting
Data and IT systems: cabling, wiring, routing, rack layout
Control systems design
Cable sizing, harness design, load calculation, routing, and protection
Component selection – cabling, connectors, motors, drives, circuit protection devices, instrumentation
Circuit design (power and control)
Panel design and layout
Design for high vibration, harsh, and explosive atmosphere environments
Launch vehicle umbilicals and interfaces
Develop electrical designs and schematics
Perform system sizing and analysis by hand calculation and numerical methods
Conduct system design trade-off studies
Substantiate designs with documented research and analysis
Develop and maintain BOMs
Ensure design standards and methodologies are followed

Testing, Commissioning & Documentation (with supervision)

Support the testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of electrical systems and components
Prepare designs and take ownership of pad systems
Help maintain documentation including drawings, reports, and project records
Gain exposure to project management tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and reporting
Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas
Willingness to get your hands dirty during project build phases

Health & Safety

Follow health and safety policies and standard operating procedures
Wear correct PPE in designated areas
Report near-misses and incidents promptly

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE

Currently working towards a BE, ME, or advanced degree in a relevant engineering program with an Electrical background
Knowledge of low and high voltage AC & DC systems
Hands-on experience with electrical equipment, data acquisition, control, and automation systems
Ability to read and understand electrical schematics
Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven environment
Proven communication skills and the ability to build strong working relationships
A positive, "how can I help?" attitude – no task is beneath you
Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

NICE TO HAVE

Experience with design, commissioning, operation and maintenance of power supply and distribution systems, including generators and UPSs, to national and/or international codes and standards
Exposure to instrumentation and control systems design
Experience with panel design, layout, or wiring
Previous internship or project experience in electrical engineering or aerospace
Hands-on fabrication, prototyping, or test equipment experience

WHAT WE OFFER

Hands-on experience working on real aerospace and space technology projects
Mentorship from world-class engineers and industry professionals