Avionics Intern - Neutron Avionics Hardware

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 ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. We're opening access to space to improve life on Earth through our Electron rocket and Neutron launch vehicle programs, alongside our space systems business. From pioneering carbon composite rocket technology to delivering reliable and rapid launch services, we're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aerospace.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Neutron is Rocket Lab's new, medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle currently under development. The Neutron Avionics department is responsible for the delivery of all avionics systems across the vehicle, including integrated Avionics Hardware, flight software, and Neutron's flight safety system.

The Neutron Avionics Hardware team is responsible for the design, qualification, acceptance testing, and productionisation of the avionics components on the vehicle.

As an intern in the Neutron Avionics Hardware team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the design of electronic assemblies for the Neutron launch vehicle, specialist ground support equipment, and production automation tools. This includes conducting trade-studies, schematic capture, PCB design as well as some testing and hands-on troubleshooting. As an important part of the design team, you will be assisting with the development and maintenance of our components and make meaningful contributions to the longevity of the designs and production processes.

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

Electrical Design

• Assist with the creation, maintenance, and management of design libraries in Altium Designer
• Perform design tasks, such as circuit design, verification, and characterization
• Participate in the production release of electrical BOMs and designs
• Hands-on development of prototype designs for R&D applications
• Participate in development of tools and processes for automated testing and reporting of avionics components

Electrical Testing

• Participate and support test campaigns for in-house and commercial avionics components
• Support engineering activities for the build and commissioning of automated test equipment
• Support the development of data automation and reporting tools
• Commission and debug electrical test equipment. Train and provide support on the use of automated test equipment
• Collaborate with engineers and team members across multiple departments
• Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MUST HAVE

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or equivalent (currently pursuing or recently completed)

0-1 years of experience with electronics design

0-1 years of experience with testing and troubleshooting electronics

Experience designing and implementing analog, digital, or mixed-signal circuit PCBs from concept through to production

Familiarity in electronics principles and electrical systems, including power electronics, communication systems (e.g RS-422, SPI, Ethernet, CAN bus), signal integrity, and grounding

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team

Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation

NICE TO HAVE

• Understanding of instrumentation, interfaces and sensors including power supplies, oscilloscopes, serial devices and accelerometers, thermocouples, RTDs and 4-20 mA sensors
• Understanding of battery systems
• Understanding of programming language, scripting tools, and automation (C/C++, Python)
• Excellent communication both written and verbal, including creating material for distribution to external parties
• Ability to work independently in an autonomously driven, fast-paced environment
• Previous internship or project experience in avionics hardware or electronics design

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 on avionics hardware for a reusable launch vehicle
• Professional development opportunities in the space industry
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• Opportunity to contribute to missions that make a difference
• Potential pathway to future career opportunities at Rocket Lab

HOW TO APPLY

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