About the role#
As a Combustion Devices Intern, you will join the propulsion team to help design, analyze, and test hardware. This role involves working on the Neutron rocket program. You will work alongside mentors to apply engineering concepts to real hardware challenges. You will also gain experience with data processing and GD&T drafting.
What you'll do#
- Support the team in designing, analyzing, and testing combustion devices.
- Work closely with your mentor and other department employees to grow your skills.
- Apply engineering concepts to solve technical challenges.
- Provide regular progress updates to your supervisor.
- Attend recurring 1:1 meetings to track your learning and success.
- Participate in tech talks and connect with other interns and employees.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in a bachelor’s, master's, or doctorate program in engineering, physics, or mathematics.
- At least one semester of school remaining after the internship concludes.
- A GPA of 3.0 or above.
- At least 3 months of applied engineering experience, including internships, laboratory work, or personal projects.
- Preferred: A GPA of 3.5 or above and 6+ months of applied engineering experience.
- Preferred: Experience with CAD/CAM, GD&T drafting, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), or 3D printing.
- Preferred: Familiarity with software such as ANSYS, MATLAB, or Siemens NX.
- Preferred: Experience with propulsion systems.
Location & details#
- Location: Long Beach, California.
- Term: Winter 2027.
- Modality: Full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks.
- Compensation: $28.00 per hour.
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab manufactures rockets and spacecraft for global customers. Founded in 2006, the company produces the Electron launch vehicle and develops the Neutron rocket. It operates across the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. The firm employs over 2,300 people and maintains its headquarters in Long Beach, California.
How to get in at Rocket Lab
Applying to Rocket Lab early is a significant advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first before the pile grows. This helps you avoid the common frustration of submitting your resume after the initial review phase has already begun. You can also improve your chances by reaching out to the right people. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral. This direct approach materially improves response rates compared to waiting for a system to process your application.
