About the role#
As a Propulsion Design Intern in Long Beach, you will support the team in the design and analysis of components and subassemblies for the Archimedes engine. You will work alongside a multidisciplinary team to design, analyze, and build engine system hardware to accelerate development. This role requires working on-site for a full-time, 12-week term beginning in early 2027.
What you'll do#
- Apply engineering concepts to solve real technical challenges.
- Work closely with your mentor and other employees to grow your skills.
- Attend frequent 1:1 meetings to provide progress updates and receive feedback.
- Participate in tech talks and connect with other interns and employees at company events.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in a bachelor’s, master's, or doctorate program in Aerospace, Astronautical, Aeronautical, or Mechanical engineering.
- 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, lab work, or personal projects.
- Ability to thrive in ambiguity and work within small, high-performing teams.
Preferred qualifications include:
- A GPA of 3.5 or above.
- 6+ months of applied engineering experience.
- Experience with Siemens NX, ANSYS Workbench, CAD/CAM, or Python.
- Knowledge of fluid dynamics, fluid systems, liquid rocket engines, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and structural fundamentals.
Location & details#
- Location: Long Beach, California.
- Term: Winter 2027.
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: $28.00 per hour.
- Employment Status: Full-time.
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.
