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.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As a Space Operations Intern, you’ll play a key role in Rocket Lab’s global Spacecraft Operations team. From LEO science to interplanetary exploration, constellation services, and re-entry operations, you’ll work on a wide range of missions that push the boundaries of space technology. This internship is a unique opportunity to dive deep into the spacecraft operations ecosystem, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to developing tools and processes that directly impact mission success. You’ll gain hands-on experience across diverse missions, including LEO on-orbit manufacturing and deep space exploration, while working closely with experts in spacecraft design, flight software, propulsion, and ground systems. At Rocket Lab, you’ll be part of a team that’s redefining space exploration, giving you exposure to the full lifecycle of satellite operations and the chance to make a real impact on groundbreaking missions.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

Implement CI/CD optimizations for hardware testing builds, deployment, and code generation.
Develop Grafana dashboard generation tools for improved monitoring and reporting.
Enhance developer experience by improving IDE plugins and internal tools like MAESTRO.
Optimize internal instruction tools to improve templates and streamline workflows.

WHAT TOU’LL BRING:

Essential Skills:

Proficiency in software development (Python, Shell, Linux, TeamCity, Gitlab pipelines).
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a focus on software development.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in dynamic environments (e.g., university projects or internships).

Desirable Skills:

Exposure to modern development practices (GIT, CI/CD, cloud infrastructure).
Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing.

If you’re passionate about space, software development, and making an impact, apply now for Rocket Lab’s Space Operations Intern Engineer role. Let’s build the future of space exploration together!

YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE.

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.