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Internship

Space Operations Intern

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab

Auckland, NZ
On-site
Posted February 21, 2026

Job Description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access space. The rockets and satellites we build, and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.  

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope. 

ABOUT THE ROLE: 

As a Space Operations Intern, you’ll play a key role in Rocket Lab’s global Spacecraft Operations team. From LEO science to interplanetary exploration, constellation services, and re-entry operations, you’ll work on a wide range of missions that push the boundaries of space technology. This internship is a unique opportunity to dive deep into the spacecraft operations ecosystem, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and contribute to developing tools and processes that directly impact mission success. You’ll gain hands-on experience across diverse missions, including LEO on-orbit manufacturing and deep space exploration, while working closely with experts in spacecraft design, flight software, propulsion, and ground systems. At Rocket Lab, you’ll be part of a team that’s redefining space exploration, giving you exposure to the full lifecycle of satellite operations and the chance to make a real impact on groundbreaking missions.

WHAT YOU’LL DO:

  • Implement CI/CD optimizations for hardware testing builds, deployment, and code generation.
  • Develop Grafana dashboard generation tools for improved monitoring and reporting.
  • Enhance developer experience by improving IDE plugins and internal tools like MAESTRO.
  • Optimize internal instruction tools to improve templates and streamline workflows.

WHAT TOU’LL BRING:

Essential Skills:

  • Proficiency in software development (Python, Shell, Linux, TeamCity, Gitlab pipelines).
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with a focus on software development.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in dynamic environments (e.g., university projects or internships).

Desirable Skills:

  • Exposure to modern development practices (GIT, CI/CD, cloud infrastructure).
  • Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing.

If you’re passionate about space, software development, and making an impact, apply now for Rocket Lab’s Space Operations Intern Engineer role. Let’s build the future of space exploration together!

YOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE.

 

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 oft

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