Electron Vehicle Development Intern
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 Electron Vehicle Development team in Auckland. The primary purpose of the Mechanical Development & Test Intern is to support improvements to the mechanical development & test processes and hardware as well as hands-on test execution.
Regular activities of the Mechanical Development & Test Intern include developing and building equipment to support repeated test types, and data management for supporting documentation.
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
Design:
- Design and develop production tooling/equipment to continuously improve current vehicle production processes
- Design, draw and analyse parts and assemblies
- Substantiate designs with documented research, modelling and analysis as required
- In some cases, build the physical prototype of the design
- Introduce equipment to the production floor, ensuring processes are validated to consistently produce "good" product
Process:
- Facilitate the development of designs for current and future RL vehicles
- Develop and optimise test operations
- Mitigate risk within current processes
Project:
- Support continuous improvement projects being delivered by the wider Mechanical Development & Test Engineering team
- Communicate project milestones
Technical Documentation:
- Create clear technical drawings which allow a part/assembly to be successfully manufactured
- Create clear technical documentation related to the qualification and on-going use of their designs
Problem Solving:
- Support cross-functional teams with problem solving activities
- 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 Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering or related discipline
- Strong 3-D CAD skills (preferably SolidEdge or Siemens NX)
- Good communicator, with proven ability to write clear
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