Systems Engineering Summer 2027 in Pasadena

As a Systems Engineering based at Rocket Lab’s site in Pasadena, California, you will have the opportunity to support hands-on integration and testing which includes setting up test hardware, operating robotic systems, executing test procedures, collecting and analyzing data, troubleshooting issues, documenting results, and helping prepare verification and customer deliverable This Systems Engineering team supports the development, integration, and verification of robotic and motion-control systems for active customer programs.

WHAT YOU’LL GET TO DO

• As an , you will work closely with your mentor and other employees within the department to apply your knowledge and grow your skills both technically and professionally

• Work with a fast-paced group of professionals to apply engineering and industry concepts to solve real challenges

• Attend frequent 1:1’s with mentors and supervisors to facilitate success and learning while providing progress updates

• Enjoy tech talks and network with other interns and employees through social and professional events

Ideal candidates will thrive in ambiguity and are excited to work in small, high-performing teams that are focused on continued learning and growth. Success in this position will be measured by the knowledge and experience you bring to the role, your ability to lead development projects without supervision, and your ability to successfully collaborate across teams to deliver results.

• Must be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate degree program in a Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Robotic Engineering, or related discipline and have at least one semester of school remaining post

• GPA of 3.0 or above

• 3+ months of applied engineering experience (, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE

• GPA of 3.5 or above

• 6+ months of applied engineering experience (, laboratory, and personal/team project experience is applicable)

• Experience with robotics, motion control, electromechanical systems, or embedded systems

• MATLAB, ROS 2, and LabView experience

• Python experience

• Pay Rate: $28.00 USD Hourly
• You may be eligible for a stipend to subsidize relocation costs

Level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Our comprehensive benefits package includes our industry-leading Employee Stock Purchase Program (with a 15% discount on company stock), top-tier medical plans (HMO, PPO, and a zero cost HDHP option with a significant HSA company contribution), dental and vision coverage, paid vacation and sick time, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care accounts, paid parental leave, and life insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Additional perks include subsidized EV charging, onsite fitness centers (where available), discounted gym memberships, complimentary snacks and beverages, 50% employee discount on our popular merch store, and a variety of other employee discounts.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter for a comprehensive list of the benefits available for this role. Benefit programs are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Hourly Pay Range (CA Only) $28-$28 USD

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity’s reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.