R&D Engineering Intern Fall 2026

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Benefits

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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. As a R&D Engineering Intern based at Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, New Mexico, you will have the opportunity to support the Cell Product team in evolving different technologies that can become production product lines. WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO As an intern, you will 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 1:1's 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 YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS 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 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 successfully 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 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) THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE GPA of 3.5 or above 6+ months of applied engineering experience (internship, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable) Python experience Strong Excel experience Experience in hands‑on prototyping: soldering, wire splicing, laser cutting, dispensing, solar cell processing, or panel assembly Experience with robotic arms Experience with AI tools Knowledge of Ohm's Law and fundamental solar cell behavior (I‑V curves, efficiency). Knowledge of heat transfer principles (conductive and reactive) Knowledge of circuits, semiconductor physics, or thermodynamics ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning August or September 2026. (Fall Interns) COMPENSATION AND OTHER BENEFITS You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs

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