About the role#
As a Thermal Engineering Intern, you will join a team that supports the entire lifecycle of spacecraft production, from initial concept through flight. You will work alongside mentors and other department employees to apply engineering concepts to real-world challenges. This team acts as subject matter experts for the company and its subsidiaries, coordinating closely with disciplines like GNC and mechanical engineering to deliver efficient thermal solutions.
What you'll do#
- Collaborate with your mentor and team members to grow your technical and professional skills.
- Apply engineering concepts to solve active project challenges.
- Attend regular 1:1 meetings with supervisors to discuss progress and learning.
- Participate in tech talks and connect with other interns through social and professional events.
- Lead development projects with independence.
- Work across different teams to deliver results.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in a bachelor's, master's, or doctorate program in physics, mathematics, or an engineering discipline.
- At least one semester of school remaining after the internship.
- A GPA of 3.0 or above.
- At least 3 months of applied engineering experience, including internships, laboratory work, or team projects.
- Ability to thrive in ambiguity.
- Preferred: GPA of 3.5 or above.
- Preferred: 6+ months of applied engineering experience.
- Preferred: Experience with thermal engineering, CAD/CAM, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and machining, specifically using a lathe.
Location & details#
- Location: Long Beach, California.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: Full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks starting in May or June 2027.
- Compensation: $28.00 per hour.
- This is a paid internship.
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.
