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Manufacturing Engineering Intern - Composites

Rocket Lab
Auckland, NZ Full Time Negotiable Aug 8, 2026

About the Job

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 e...

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Composites Manufacturing Engineering team in Auckland. The primary purpose of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern is to support production activities related to the Launch Vehicle within a high-growth production environment, ensuring manufacturing principl...

This position will support the Lead Manufacturing Engineer with their deliverables. The role will also work closely and develop strong relationships with Engineers, Technicians, and subject matter experts across a range of departments to enable the build and testing of launch vehicles.

Key Responsibilities

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Composites Manufacturing Engineering team in Auckland. The primary purpose of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern is to support production activities related to the Launch Vehicle within a high-growth production environment, ensuring manufacturing principles are practised to a high standard and ensuring stringent launch times can be achieved. 
Regular activities of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern include reviewing and processing non-conformance documents, providing support to develop and optimise processes, tools and equipment for production. Supporting the composite team members during implementation of process changes through prototyping, testing and validation. They will also support the Manufacturing Engineering team with various other improvement projects, risk assessments, daily issue management and 5S related tasks. 
This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that are literally reaching for the stars. 
Implement production processes through validation & verification to achieve 'right first time', repeatability and high yield 
Creation of clear technical documentation to support Production 
Work alongside technicians to develop and improve Work Instructions 
Design and develop tooling/equipment with stakeholders ensuring requirements are captured and delivered 
Mitigate risk within current processes 
Conduct root cause investigations as part of the integrated project team 
Self-manage tasks and project milestones 
Deliver right first-time project implementation 
Communicate major milestones and any potential risk 
Coordinate resources needed to complete project implementation 
Support Continuous improvement projects 
Support project teams with practical problem-solving activities and promote the 'zero defect' mindset 
Collaborate with engineers, technicians and subject matter experts across multiple departments 
Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas 

Required Skills & Abilities

Currently studying towards a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline 
Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes 
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal 
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively 
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team 
Passion for the Aerospace Industry 
Computer Aided Design experience, preferably with Siemens NX 
Experience with DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies 
Knowledge with composite related material properties including resin systems, ablative materials, and sandwich structures 
Experience with composite manufacturing techniques and processes 
Previous internship or project experience in composites or manufacturing engineering 

Apply now

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