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Internship Rocket Lab information

What is an Internship at Rocket Lab?

An internship at Rocket Lab is a temporary, structured work experience for students or recent graduates looking to gain hands-on experience in the aerospace industry. Interns at Rocket Lab work alongside industry professionals on real projects in areas such as engineering, manufacturing, software, and business operations. These internships typically last for a set period, often over the summer, and provide valuable learning opportunities, mentorship, and the potential for future employment. Interns can expect to be involved in exciting projects related to rocket development, satellite technology, and launch operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern at Rocket Lab, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Rocket Lab intern, a strong academic background in engineering, physics, or a related STEM field is essential, often supported by progress toward a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and hands-on laboratory or project experience are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication set standout interns apart. These skills are vital for contributing meaningfully to high-tech projects, adapting quickly, and collaborating in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

What types of projects can interns expect to work on at Rocket Lab, and how are they integrated into the engineering teams?

Interns at Rocket Lab are typically given hands-on, meaningful projects that contribute directly to ongoing missions, such as development, testing, or analysis of rocket components and systems. They work closely with experienced engineers, participating in team meetings, design reviews, and collaborative problem-solving sessions. This integrated approach helps interns gain practical experience, build technical skills, and understand the fast-paced environment of the aerospace industry. Regular mentorship and feedback are provided to support learning and professional growth.

What is the difference between Internship Rocket Lab vs Rocket Engineer?

AspectInternship Rocket LabRocket Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of engineering/science programBachelor's or higher in aerospace, mechanical, or related engineering
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, learning-focused, collaborative teamsFull-time, professional engineering environment, project-driven
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by companies like Rocket Lab for training future engineersUsed by aerospace companies for designing and testing rockets

Internship Rocket Lab is a temporary, learning-focused position for students or recent graduates, while a Rocket Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing and developing rocket systems. Internships provide hands-on experience, whereas Rocket Engineers work on ongoing projects in a professional setting.

Are Rocket Lab internships paid?

Rocket Lab internships are typically paid positions, offering compensation to interns for their work. The pay rate may vary depending on the role, location, and duration of the internship, and some positions may also provide additional benefits such as mentorship and hands-on experience.

Is SpaceX still hiring interns?

SpaceX regularly offers internship opportunities in engineering, manufacturing, and business roles, with applications typically open during specific recruitment periods. Interested candidates should check the SpaceX careers page for current openings and eligibility requirements, which often include relevant coursework or technical skills. Internships usually last several months and may require a commitment to a full-time schedule during the summer or semester periods.

How much does Rocket pay interns?

Interns at Rocket Lab typically receive a stipend or hourly pay, with compensation often ranging from $15 to $20 per hour depending on the role and location. The internship program may also include opportunities to work on real projects using industry tools and gain valuable experience in aerospace technology.

How much do Rocket Lab interns get paid?

Rocket Lab interns typically receive a stipend or hourly pay that varies depending on the location and internship program. Compensation can range from minimum wage to competitive hourly rates, often aligned with industry standards for engineering or technical internships. Interns may also gain valuable experience working with aerospace technologies and tools during their internship period.
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Internship Rocket Lab jobs near you
Manufacturing Engineering Intern Fall 2026

Manufacturing Engineering Intern Fall 2026

Rocket Lab Corporation

Long Beach, CA

$28/hr

Full-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Rocket Lab rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

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.

As a Manufacturing Engineering Intern based at Rocket Lab's site in Long Beach, California, you will have the opportunity to work with the design, production and quality teams to develop and qualify process to make rocket engines. Rocket Lab's Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

  • As an intern, you will work closely with your mentor and other employees within the department to apply your knowledge and grow your skills both technically and professionally

  • Work with a fast-paced group of professionals to apply engineering and industry concepts to solve real challenges

  • Attend frequent 1:1's with mentors and supervisors to facilitate success and learning while providing progress updates

  • Enjoy tech talks and network with other interns and employees through social and professional events

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS

Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in small, high-performing teams that are focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by the knowledge and experience you bring to the role, your ability to lead development projects without supervision, and your ability to successfully collaborate across teams to deliver results.

  • Must be enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in an engineering, physics or math discipline and have at least one semester of school remaining post internship

  • GPA of 3.0 or above

  • 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

  • Able to work full time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning August or September 2026

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

  • GPA of 3.5 or above

  • 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

  • Solid Modelling experience

  • Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD)

  • Experience with mills, lathes, and powered equipment

COMPENSATION AND OTHER BENEFITS

  • Pay Range CA: $28.00 USD Hourly

  • You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust and fumes in production areas

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)
$28—$28 USD

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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