Manufacturing Engineering Intern Fall

Manufacturing Engineering Intern Fall 2026

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. Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, 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 work with the design, production, and quality teams to develop and qualify processes to make rocket engines. The Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door.

• Work closely with a mentor and department employees to apply knowledge and grow 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 1:1s 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.

• Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in an engineering, physics, or math discipline with at least one semester of school remaining after the internship.
• GPA of 3.0 or above.
• 3+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, or personal/team projects).
• Experience collaborating across teams to deliver results.

• GPA of 3.5 or above.
• 6+ months of applied engineering experience.
• Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD).
• Experience with mills, lathes, and powered equipment.

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

Pay Range (CA): $28.00 USD per hour.

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

Base salary is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge, skills, education, and experience.

Employees may receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including:
Medical (HMO, PPO), HSA plan, 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.

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.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees…