Mission Operation Intern Fall

Overview

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, climate change mitigation, national security, and new technology demonstrations.

As a Mission Operations Intern based in Long Beach, California, you will accelerate automation and Dev Ops capabilities that power Rocket Lab’s growing spacecraft fleet. You’ll work hands‑on with modern tools such as Python, Linux, CI/CD, and HIL/SIL testing while supporting missions from LEO constellations to deep‑space exploration. Working closely with cross‑functional engineering teams, you’ll enhance both ground and on‑orbit systems in a fast‑paced, vertically integrated environment.

The internship offers a chance to contribute directly to mission success and spacecraft performance across all phases of flight.

• Work closely with your mentor and other department employees to apply your knowledge and grow technical and professional skills.
• Apply engineering and industry concepts to solve real challenges in a fast‑paced group of professionals.
• Attend frequent 1:1 meetings with mentors and supervisors to facilitate learning while providing progress updates.
• Enjoy tech talks and network with other interns and employees through social and professional events.

• Enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree program in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related field with at least one semester remaining after the internship.
• GPA of 3.0 or above.
• Three or more months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, or personal/team project experience).
• Proficiency in Python, Linux, and Git.
• Able to work full time on‑site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning August or September 2026.

• GPA of 3.5 or above.
• Six or more months of applied engineering experience.
• General understanding of spacecraft systems, operations, or mission workflows.
• Experience with AI/ML applications in software development or operations.
• Familiarity with testing frameworks that integrate software and hardware systems.

• Hourly pay (California): $28.00 USD.
• Eligible for relocation stipend.
• Base salary is one component of a total rewards package that may include company equity, health benefits (HMO, PPO, HSA, dental, vision), paid vacation (3 weeks), sick leave (5 days), paid holidays (11 days), flexible spending accounts, dependent care accounts, parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with company match.
• Other perks include discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and additional discounts.

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.

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab employees must be U.S. citizens, lawful U.S. permanent residents, or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations. Applicants for positions in U.S. offices must meet these criteria. For New Zealand offices, eligibility is restricted to citizens or eligible dual nationals of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or NATO countries.