ABOUT ROCKET LAB
Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. 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 provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.
Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!
ABOUT THE TEAM:
Join our dynamic team responsible for the maintenance and calibration of all production and development equipment at Rocket Lab's Auckland Production complex. Our team also assembles tooling for the production of Electron and maintains facilities across four independent buildings, supporting approximately 700 staff. We interact directly with all departments, including Engineering, Production, and Development teams, and maintain a close working relationship with our Manufacturing Engineering division across Electron production, Neutron Development, and Space System manufacturing.
YOUR MISSION:
As a Maintenance Planning Intern, you'll gain invaluable insight into the operations of an end-to-end space company. You'll help streamline our Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) activities within our current CMMS system. This project involves:
- Maintenance Scenario Updates: Update maintenance scenarios for all Single Points of Failure (SPOF) equipment. Schedule PPM activities in the current CMMS system.
- Critical Spares Management: Update and create Critical Spares lists for all SPOF equipment. Integrate Critical Spares lists into existing inventory systems and create a physical store area for these parts.
- Process Documentation: Create process maps and clear instructions for maintenance scenarios and spare part creation within the CMMS system. Upload these documents to our information database.
- Bonus Project: Create a process map for the secure destruction process and upload it to our document control system.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
- Current student pursuing a degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Operations Management.
- Experience using Solidworks and CAD modeling.
- Familiarity with P&ID’s (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams).
- Facility maintenance planning experience or work with centralized maintenance management software is a plus.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and documentation skills.
REQUIREMENT:
Available to work full-time, on-site for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks beginning November 2025.
WHY JOIN US?
Hands-On Experience: Gain practical experience in maintenance planning and process improvement.
Professional Growth: Develop your skills and knowledge in a supportive and innovative environment.
Broad Exposure: Interact with various departments and gain a comprehensive understanding of how a leading space company operates.
Impactful Work: Contribute to projects that enhance the efficiency and reliability of our production and development equipment.
If you're ready to take on exciting challenges and make a difference, apply now to join Rocket Lab as a Maintenance Planning Intern!
When applying, include a detailed cover letter stating what interests you about Rocket Lab and this role in particular. Feel free to be creative and stand out in your application and introduction to the team at Rocket Lab.
Be sure to include relevant experience /personal or school projects you have completed that align with this role and why you believe you would be the best candidate for this role.
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 often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
Important information:
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.
Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at [email protected] dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.
FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:
For security reasons background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.
Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.
