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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 space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable missions supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change mitigation, security, and new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket is a widely used U.S. rocket, and we are developing Neutron for larger constellation deployment. The Space Systems business designs and builds satellites and components, including spacecraft selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. As a Mechanical Engineer based at Rocket Lab's site in Long Beach, California, you will support the Space Systems Division in shaping Rocket Lab's future with Photon, our brand of high-performance satellites, enabling missions in low Earth orbit and beyond, including NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and commercial customers. The Space Vehicle Design team develops new concepts and hardware, builds and tests designs to withstand the space environment, and delivers fully tested hardware to the spacecraft integration team. What you’ll get to do
As a Mechanical Engineer, you will work closely with your mentor and other team members to apply your knowledge and grow your skills technically and professionally Work with a fast-paced group 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 Participate in tech talks and network with interns and employees through social and professional events You’ll bring these qualifications
Ideal candidates thrive in ambiguity and enjoy working in small, high-performing teams focused on 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 collaborate across teams to deliver results. Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree program in an engineering, physics, or math discipline with at least one semester remaining GPA of 3.0 or above 3+ months of applied engineering experience (laboratory and personal/team projects are applicable) These qualifications would be nice to have
GPA of 3.5 or above 6+ months of applied engineering experience (laboratory and personal/team projects are applicable) Proficient in CAD/CAM software (NX & Teamcenter) for designing and modeling mechanical components Finite Element Analysis experience (Ansys, Simcenter 3D, FEMAP/NASTRAN) 3D printing experience Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing machining experience Lathe machining experience Additional requirements
Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning May or June 2026 Compensation and other benefits
Pay Range CA: $28.00 USD per hour You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is one component of our total rewards package, which may include equity and a comprehensive benefits package including: medical, dental, vision, paid vacation and leave, holidays, and a 401(k) with company match. Other perks include: stock purchase program, onsite amenities, and additional discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary by employment status. What to expect
We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a focus on delivering results while supporting teammates. We value collaboration, supporting each other, and maintaining focus under pressure. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible to obtain required authorizations. ITAR regulations apply. Employees should be aware of equal employment opportunities and non-discrimination policies. Reasonable accommodations for the application/interview process are available; contact the recruiter for accommodations. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
Background checks may be undertaken prior to employment offers, and eligibility to access equipment and data regulated by ITAR may apply.
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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 missions supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation, climate change mitigation, security, and new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket is a widely used U.S. rocket, and we are developing Neutron for larger constellation deployment. The Space Systems business designs and builds satellites and components, including spacecraft selected for NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. As a Mechanical Engineer based at Rocket Lab's site in Long Beach, California, you will support the Space Systems Division in shaping Rocket Lab's future with Photon, our brand of high-performance satellites, enabling missions in low Earth orbit and beyond, including NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and commercial customers. The Space Vehicle Design team develops new concepts and hardware, builds and tests designs to withstand the space environment, and delivers fully tested hardware to the spacecraft integration team. What you’ll get to do
As a Mechanical Engineer, you will work closely with your mentor and other team members to apply your knowledge and grow your skills technically and professionally Work with a fast-paced group 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 Participate in tech talks and network with interns and employees through social and professional events You’ll bring these qualifications
Ideal candidates thrive in ambiguity and enjoy working in small, high-performing teams focused on 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 collaborate across teams to deliver results. Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree program in an engineering, physics, or math discipline with at least one semester remaining GPA of 3.0 or above 3+ months of applied engineering experience (laboratory and personal/team projects are applicable) These qualifications would be nice to have
GPA of 3.5 or above 6+ months of applied engineering experience (laboratory and personal/team projects are applicable) Proficient in CAD/CAM software (NX & Teamcenter) for designing and modeling mechanical components Finite Element Analysis experience (Ansys, Simcenter 3D, FEMAP/NASTRAN) 3D printing experience Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing machining experience Lathe machining experience Additional requirements
Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning May or June 2026 Compensation and other benefits
Pay Range CA: $28.00 USD per hour You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is one component of our total rewards package, which may include equity and a comprehensive benefits package including: medical, dental, vision, paid vacation and leave, holidays, and a 401(k) with company match. Other perks include: stock purchase program, onsite amenities, and additional discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary by employment status. What to expect
We are on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth. This requires hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and a focus on delivering results while supporting teammates. We value collaboration, supporting each other, and maintaining focus under pressure. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, Rocket Lab employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible to obtain required authorizations. ITAR regulations apply. Employees should be aware of equal employment opportunities and non-discrimination policies. Reasonable accommodations for the application/interview process are available; contact the recruiter for accommodations. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
Background checks may be undertaken prior to employment offers, and eligibility to access equipment and data regulated by ITAR may apply.
#J-18808-Ljbffr