--- title: 'Propulsion Design Intern Spring 2027 at Rocket Lab Corporation' canonical: 'https://feeny.ai/job/propulsion-design-intern-spring-2027-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-efn8b5b7wtkh' type: 'job' last_seen: '2026-09-16' --- # Propulsion Design Intern Spring 2027 at Rocket Lab Corporation - **Company:** Rocket Lab Corporation - **Location:** Long Beach, CA - **Compensation:** $28/hr - **Posted:** 2026-09-11 - **Last confirmed live:** 2026-09-16 - **Apply:** https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/rocketlab/jobs/7987110003 ## Job description ## ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us. As a Propulsion Design Intern based at Rocket Lab’s site in Long Beach, California, you will have the opportunity to support the team in design and analysis of components and subassemblies for the Archimedes engine. You will join our multidisciplinary propulsion team who is responsible for designing, analyzing, and building engine system hardware to accelerate Archimedes development. ## 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 Aerospace, Astronautical, Aeronautical or Mechanical engineering 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) - Siemens NX and ANSYS Workbench experience - CAD/CAM experience - Fluid dynamics and fluid systems experience - ## Experience with liquid rocket engines - Python experience - Knowledge of heat transfer and fluid mechanics - Familiar with Structural fundamentals (statics) ## ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS - Able to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning January, February, or March 2027 ## 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. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, disability and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee 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. Hourly 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. Important information: FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR [here](https://urldefense.us/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.pmddtc.state.gov_-3Fid-3Dddtc-5Fkb-5Farticle-5Fpage-26sys-5Fid-3D24d528fddbfc930044f9ff621f961987&d=DwMFog&c=N_fLK0KxmM34zjMadXHMx_SQYmXWO3FX0MRVr1hBcn4&r=prjnch9sxomG2ahCicblmM3m-FuPObepspoR1qvWq2I&m=ExC44mBPk2emo4Fr0xPSGZN0UraQ1ZtkDTxwR7iWw5rixcFQb-Wjlv7lJcecLldz&s=0lfm4LyRtFwK220WHBK11DGHWSVvVhQEcfa5G_2Nf18&e=). Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days. FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY: For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant.  These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.  For more information on these Regulations, click here [ITAR Regulations.](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/01/23/2020-00574/international-traffic-in-arms-regulations-us-munitions-list-categories-i-ii-and-iii) ## About Rocket Lab Corporation ## Company Overview - **One-liner**: Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering reliable launch services, spacecraft, satellite components, and on-orbit management [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/). - **Entity Type**: Public (NASDAQ: RKLB) – went public via SPAC merger in August 2021 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab). - **Headquarters**: Long Beach, California, USA (with additional facilities in New Zealand, Virginia, Maryland, Colorado, Canada, and elsewhere) [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/). - **Founded**: 2006 - **Founders**: Peter Beck ## Core Business - **Primary industries**: Aerospace, space launch services, satellite manufacturing, and space systems components. - **Target customers**: Commercial satellite operators, civil space agencies (NASA, NOAA), defence customers (U.S. Space Force, NRO), and research institutions. - **Mission**: "Unlocking the potential of space to improve life on Earth" [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/). ## Products & Services - **Electron**: Small orbital launch vehicle – the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket, with over 75 missions as of January 2026 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab). Also used for the suborbital HASTE hypersonic testbed. - **Neutron**: Reusable medium-lift launch vehicle in development, targeting constellation deployment, interplanetary missions, and human spaceflight [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/). - **Photon**: Spacecraft platform for Earth orbit, lunar, and interplanetary missions (e.g., NASA CAPSTONE, ESCAPADE to Mars). - **Satellite Components & Subsystems**: Star trackers, reaction wheels, solar panels, electric propulsion, software-defined radios, separation systems, advanced composite structures, and flight/ground software. Rocket Lab’s space systems technology has enabled more than 1,700 missions globally [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/). ## Market Standing - **Valuation / Market Cap**: Not provided in available sources (NASDAQ-traded; value fluctuates). The SPAC merger in 2021 was valued at approximately $4.1 billion, but current market cap should be verified via financial platforms. - **Key Metric**: Over 2,600 employees globally as of May 2025 [en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab); more than 700 in New Zealand alone. - **Notable Investors / Partners**: Vector Acquisition Corporation (SPAC partner). Key customers include NASA, U.S. Space Force, NRO, NOAA, BlackSky, and OHB Group. - **Growth Signals**: Development of Neutron; record launch cadence (9 missions in 2022); opening new manufacturing and test facilities (Middle River MD, Stennis MS, Warkworth NZ); successful lunar mission (CAPSTONE) and Mars mission award (ESCAPADE). ## Competitive Advantages - **Vertical integration**: Rocket Lab designs and manufactures its own rockets, spacecraft, satellite components, and operates its own launch sites – reducing cost and lead time. - **High launch frequency & reliability**: Electron is the most frequently launched small rocket globally, with rapid turnaround (as fast as 15 days). - **Reusable rocket technology**: Neutron will bring reusability to the medium-lift class, further lowering per-mission costs. - **Southern Hemisphere launch site**: Only private orbital launch site at Mahia, New Zealand, providing unique orbital inclinations. - **Proven interplanetary capability**: First private company to reach the Moon with CAPSTONE and win a Mars mission (ESCAPADE). ## Strategic Focus - Complete development, test, and first launch of the Neutron rocket from Launch Complex 3 at Wallops Island, Virginia. - Expand spacecraft and component manufacturing to serve the growing defence, civil, and commercial satellite markets. - Pursue interplanetary and human-spaceflight capabilities. - Increase launch cadence and begin recovery and reuse of Electron first stages. ## Why Work Here - **Culture**: Driven, mission-focused environment with emphasis on “Trust, Innovation, and Excellence”. Values include “We are the best at what we do” and “Together we are unstoppable” [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/). - **Work & locations**: Multiple offices, factories, test, and launch sites across the U.S., New Zealand, and Canada. Hybrid/remote policy not explicitly stated; most roles appear on-site at specific facilities. - **Projects**: Hands-on work with cutting-edge rockets, interplanetary spacecraft, advanced composites, and space software. - **Perks & benefits**: Not detailed on the careers page, but the company offers a collaborative environment, career growth across many disciplines (engineering, tech, operations, finance, etc.), and the opportunity to contribute to high-impact space missions. - **EEO & accommodations**: Rocket Lab provides reasonable accommodations for job applicants with disabilities [rocketlabcorp.com](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/). ## Sources 1. [rocketlabcorp.com – About Us](https://rocketlabcorp.com/about/about-us/) 2. [rocketlabcorp.com – Careers](https://rocketlabcorp.com/careers/) 3. [en.wikipedia.org – Rocket Lab](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rocket_Lab) 4. [linkedin.com – Rocket Lab](https://www.linkedin.com/company/rocket-lab-corp) 5. [job-boards.greenhouse.io – Rocket Lab (careers portal)](https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/rocketlab) ## Other roles at Rocket Lab Corporation - [Team Lead - IT Support](https://feeny.ai/job/team-lead-it-support-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-91n4t4pv40q3) — Auckland, New Zealand - [HITL Software Engineer](https://feeny.ai/job/hitl-software-engineer-rocket-lab-corporation-auckland-s1twp5gvn8k0) — Auckland, New Zealand - [Quality Inspector II](https://feeny.ai/job/quality-inspector-ii-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-kq644pbtbybc) — Long Beach, CA - [Precision Cleaning Technician II - B Shift](https://feeny.ai/job/precision-cleaning-technician-ii-b-shift-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-2n8yb62tqrr9) — Long Beach, CA - [Systems Engineer II](https://feeny.ai/job/systems-engineer-ii-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-3n6n7dwe9v7e) — Long Beach, CA - [Systems Engineer I](https://feeny.ai/job/systems-engineer-i-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-hrbnn41s7y6r) — Long Beach, CA - [RF Phased Array Engineer II](https://feeny.ai/job/rf-phased-array-engineer-ii-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-0ejc70zvgjbm) — Long Beach, CA - [RF Phased Array Engineer I](https://feeny.ai/job/rf-phased-array-engineer-i-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-48tbs4vfb9q9) — Long Beach, CA - [Harness Design Engineer II](https://feeny.ai/job/harness-design-engineer-ii-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-eh0md8c7xt3a) — Long Beach, CA - [Harness Design Engineer I](https://feeny.ai/job/harness-design-engineer-i-rocket-lab-corporation-long-beach-v2n419cy8xtm) — Long Beach, CA