Flight Software Intern - Neutron
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
Neutron is Rocket Lab's new, medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle currently under development. The Neutron Flight Software (FSW) team develops software for Neutron's on-board Command & Data Handling System and its peripheral systems including telemetry and commanding capability, avionics sensor and actuator communication, engine control software, and Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) software. This extends to the services, tools, and interface definitions required to support development, testing, simulation, and operations across all phases of the program.
Within the Neutron Flight Software Team, the Flight Software Intern will be responsible for tooling development related to telemetry and commanding interfaces, (simulation) data post-processing, testing, robustness improvements and visualization.
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
- Development of software in Python and possibly in C++
- Enhance simulation Python tooling
- Automate post processing of test and simulation data
- Analysis of test and simulation data
- Enhance user tooling for live TM data viewing
- Robustness and testing improvements to C++ codebase
- Collaborate with engineers and team members across multiple departments
- Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
MUST HAVE:
- Currently pursuing a degree in engineering, computer science, or similar discipline
- Experience with C++ or Python
- Experience with Git version control
- A good understanding of software development workflows
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation
NICE TO HAVE:
- Final year student in engineering, computer science, or similar
- Experience processing and visualizing time domain data
- Experience with CI/CD
- Previous internship or project experience in software development or aerospace
- Familiarity with telemetry and commanding systems
WHAT WE OFFER
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