Systems Engineering Intern

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, and expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

Role Overview

As a Systems Engineering Intern based at Rocket Lab's site in Pasadena, California, you will support hands-on integration and testing. This includes setting up test hardware, operating robotic systems, executing test procedures, collecting and analyzing data, troubleshooting issues, documenting results, and helping prepare verification and customer deliverables. The Systems Engineering team supports the development, integration, and verification of robotic and motion-control systems for active customer programs.

What You'll Get to Do

• 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 1:1s 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.

Qualifications You'll Bring

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 will be measured by the knowledge and experience you bring, 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 Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotic Engineering, or a related 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).

Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• GPA of 3.5 or above.
• 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable).
• Experience with robotics, motion control, electromechanical systems, or embedded systems.
• MATLAB, ROS 2, and LabView experience.
• Python experience.

Additional Requirements

• Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning May and June 2027.

Compensation and Other Benefits

• Pay Rate: $28.00 USD Hourly.
• You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs.