Flight Analysis Intern - Software

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 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. 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 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 WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR MUST HAVE: 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 con…