Manufacturing Engineering Intern - Composites

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 to 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   We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Composites Manufacturing Engineering team in Auckland. The primary purpose of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern is to support production activities related to the Launch Vehicle within a high-growth production environment, ensuring manufacturing principles are practised to a high standard and ensuring stringent launch times can be achieved.   This position will support the Lead Manufacturing Engineer with their deliverables. The role will also work closely and develop strong relationships with Engineers, Technicians, and subject matter experts across a range of departments to enable the build and testing of launch vehicles.   Regular activities of the Composites Manufacturing Engineering Intern include reviewing and processing non-conformance documents, providing support to develop and optimise processes, tools and equipment for production. Supporting the composite team members during implementation of process changes through prototyping, testing and validation. They will also support the Manufacturing Engineering team with various other improvement projects, risk assessments, daily issue management and 5S related tasks.   This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that are literally reaching for the stars.   WHAT YOU WILL DO   General:   Implement production processes through validation & verification to achieve 'right first time', repeatability and high yield   Creation of clear technical documentation to support Production   Work alongside technicians to develop and improve Work Instructions   Design and develop tooling/equipment with stakeholders ensuring requirements are captured and delivered   Mitigate risk within current processes   Conduct root cause investigations as part of the integrated project team   Self-manage tasks and project milestones   Project:   Deliver right first-time project implementation   Communicate major milestones and any potential risk   Coordinate resources needed to complete project implementation   Support Continuous improvement projects   Problem Solving:   Support project teams with practical problem-solving activities and promote the 'zero defect' mindset   Collaborate with engineers, technicians and subject matter experts across multiple departments   Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas   WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR   MUST HAVE:   Currently studying towards a Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline   Can-do approach and flexibility to thrive around growing teams and processes   Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal   Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively   Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team   Passion for the Aerospace Industry   NICE TO HAVE:   Computer Aided Design experience, preferably with Siemens NX   Experience with DFMEA, PFMEA methodologies   Knowledge with composite related material properties including resin systems, ablative materials, and sandwich structures   Experience with composite manufacturing techniques and processes   Previous internship or project experience in composites or manufacturing engineering   WHAT WE OFFER   Hands-on experience working on real aerospace and space technology projects   Mentorship from world-class engineers and industry professionals   Exposure to cutting-edge rocket and spacecraft systems   Opportunity to work with advanced composite materials and manufacturing processes   Professional development opportunit