Manufacturing Engineering Intern Summer 2026

Manufacturing Engineering Intern Summer 2026 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 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 Manufacturing Engineering Intern based at Rocket Lab's site in Long Beach, California, you will have the opportunity to work with the design, production and quality teams to develop and qualify process to make rocket engines. Rocket Lab's Manufacturing team are the builders and the doers who work with our advanced machinery across our global manufacturing sites to get our satellites, satellite components, and rockets out the door. 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 Must be enrolled in a bachelor's 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) Hands on experience with welding Experience with assembly or machining Experience using CAD Additional Requirements Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning May or June 2026. Compensation And Other Benefits Pay Range CA: $28.00 USD Hourly You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company-sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Other perks include: Discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts. Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company's discretion. Base Pay Range (CA Only) $28 - $28 USD What To Expect We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.