Avionics Intern - Neutron Avionics Systems
Rocket Lab USAAbout the role
ABOUT ROCKET LAB
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 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 ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We're opening access to space to improve life on Earth through our Electron rocket and Neutron launch vehicle programs, alongside our space systems business. From pioneering carbon composite rocket technology to delivering reliable and rapid launch services, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aerospace.
ABOUT THE ROLE
We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Neutron Avionics Systems team in Auckland. As an intern, you will have the opportunity to support the design of electrical subsystems that are optimized for reliability, performance, and mass.
This role includes detailed schematic capture and harness design as well as some testing and hands-on troubleshooting. As an important part of the design process, you will be assisting with the creation and maintenance of our component libraries and make meaningful contributions for data management within our systems.
This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that are literally reaching for the stars.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
Electrical System Design:
- Assist with the creation, maintenance, and management of design libraries in Teamcenter
- Perform design tasks, such as harness routing, fit checks, wiring schematics, and connector selection
- Participate in the production release of electrical BOMs and designs
- Hands-on development of prototype harnesses for R&D applications
- Contribute to ensuring full test coverage for all electrical systems
Electrical System Testing:
- Support hands-on troubleshooting activities for the launch vehicle, including data analysis and testing
- Help create test set ups and electronics to diagnose, identify, and measure issues occurring with launch vehicle hardware
- Support engineering activities for the build and commissioning of automated test equipment
- Create documentation for procedures, maintenance and calibration of new test systems
- Provide training and ongoing support for the use of new test systems
- Collaborate with engineers and team members across multiple disciplines
- Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
MUST HAVE:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent (currently pursuing or recently completed)
- 1+ years of experience with electronics design
- 1+ years of experience with testing and troubleshooting new electronic systems
- Familiarity in electronics principles and electrical systems, including power electronics, communication systems (e.g. RS-422, SPI, Ethernet, CAN bus), signal integrity, and grounding
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