Flight Analysis Intern - Software

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 e...

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Flight Analysis team in Auckland. As a Flight Analysis intern, you will meaningfully contribute, improve and refactor our existing code and tools. You will interface with other departments within Rocket Lab as well as external agencies.

The scope of the flight analysis team includes developing methods, software tools, data packages and technical reports for flight safety, launch availability and on-orbit operations to support Electron mission operations and Neutron development.

We're looking for a motivated intern to join our Flight Analysis team in Auckland. As a Flight Analysis intern, you will meaningfully contribute, improve and refactor our existing code and tools. You will interface with other departments within Rocket Lab as well as external agencies. 
This is an opportunity to work on real space technology projects and contribute to missions that are literally reaching for the stars. 
Analysis & Development: 
Develop flight analysis methods and assumptions and ensure that they are up-to-date with regulatory requirements 
Development and maintenance of in-house flight analysis tools including but not limited to launch vehicle trajectory and performance evaluation, debris modelling, re-entry analysis, failure effects, reliability and mission risk 
Development and execution of 6 DoF and 3 DoF simulations 
Development of statistical models to quantify failure probabilities 
Handling, processing and analysis of large data sets 
Programming in languages such as Python and C++ 
Parallel computing and software design for efficiency 
Maintenance and improvement of in-house tools 
General modelling and simulation 

Integration, Test & Operations: 
Submit launch operational deliverables on time to the compliance team as well as relevant regulators 
Support the range team with their specific software and analysis needs 
Available to periodically support short-term workload outside of normal working hours as agreed upon with the manager 

Reporting & Documentation: 
Detailed and concise documentation of analysis methods, assumptions and results for both internal and external needs 
Prepare flight safety data packages and safety documentation 
Produce and maintain launch licensing documentation 
Document standard operating procedures 
General documentation support 
Collaborate with engineers and team members across multiple departments 
Participate in team meetings and contribute innovative ideas 

A Bachelor's degree in engineering, science or equivalent qualification - numerical modelling & simulation, statistics, multi-physics or similar fields (currently pursuing or recently completed) 
Strong programming skills and familiarity with programming languages – Python, C++ 
Familiarity with configuration management and version control 
Strong technical writing skills, familiarity with LaTeX is a plus 
Strong communication and interpersonal skills 
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team 
Passion for aerospace, space technology, and innovation 
Advanced degree in engineering, science or equivalent – Masters or PhD 
Experience generating various safety documents including flight safety data packages, compliance matrices, analysis reports, FMECA 
Experience with launch vehicle flight safety programs 
Previous internship or project experience in flight analysis or aerospace engineering