About the role#
As a Turbomachinery Intern, you will join the propulsion team in Long Beach, California. This role focuses on the development and design maturation of turbopump assemblies for our rocket engines. You will work within a team that holds full ownership of the design and test lifecycle for LOX and fuel pumps.
What you'll do#
- Participate in the development and design of turbopump assemblies.
- Support CAD and drawing updates.
- Perform data review and analysis tasks.
- Apply engineering concepts to solve real technical challenges.
- Work closely with your mentor and department staff.
- Attend regular 1:1 meetings with supervisors.
- Participate in tech talks and intern networking events.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in a bachelor’s, master's, or doctorate program in aerospace, aeronautical, astronautical, thermal, or mechanical engineering, or physics.
- At least one semester of school remaining after the internship concludes.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0.
- At least 3 months of applied engineering experience, including internships, laboratory work, or team projects.
- Preferred: A GPA of 3.5 or above and 6+ months of applied engineering experience.
- Preferred: Experience with CAD/CAM software such as Solidworks, Catia, or NX.
- Preferred: Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing.
- Preferred: Experience with software including ANSYS, Matlab, or Python.
- Preferred: Proficiency in heat transfer, fluid mechanics, turbomachinery, aerodynamics, or compressible flow.
- Preferred: Hands-on experience with hardware and a basic understanding of Design for Manufacturing.
Location & details#
- Location: Long Beach, California.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Commitment: Full-time, on-site for at least 12 consecutive weeks starting in May or June 2027.
- Compensation: $28.00 per hour.
- Sponsorship: Not available.
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.
