Manufacturing Engineering Intern

At Vessev, we're defining a new category of marine transport: hydrofoiling electric vessels that are genuinely better for people and the planet. Our boats fly above the surface using advanced hydrofoils, control systems, and electric propulsion, designed and built here in Aotearoa.

Bringing this technology to life requires world-class manufacturing, where high-performance composites, precision engineering, and continuous innovation come together to create the components that make flight possible. We're looking for an intern to get hands-on with the development, production, testing, and continuous improvement of our manufacturing processes and hydrofoil components, working alongside experienced engineers and technicians. Internships like this don't come around often. This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 400 hours, paid at $30 per hour.

The role

You'll support the development and continuous improvement of the manufacturing processes that bring Vessev's vessels to life, gaining exposure to advanced composite manufacturing, process optimisation, quality assurance, and prototype development. No two weeks will look the same. One day you might be building a jig to improve repeatability, the next you'll be analysing production data to spot a trend.

• Assist with manufacturing process development, working on tooling, jigs, fixtures, work instructions, and production workflows to improve efficiency, quality, and repeatability.
• Support production, working alongside the manufacturing team to build, assemble, and refine components and assemblies while learning best-practice manufacturing techniques.
• Support testing and validation, collecting data and helping validate manufacturing methods and production outcomes.
• Collect and analyse data, recording production metrics, quality results, and process data, and helping identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Contribute to continuous improvement, bringing ideas that simplify manufacturing processes, reduce waste, improve product quality, and increase production efficiency using lean manufacturing principles.
• Support prototype and pre-production builds, helping manufacture and assemble prototype and early-production components, gaining insight into how new designs transition into scalable manufacturing.
• Collaborate cross-functionally, working closely with manufacturing, engineering, and quality teams to solve problems, implement improvements, and support the successful delivery of new products.

What you'll learn

• Gain real-world experience in composite production and assembly.
• Get exposure to hydrofoil manufacturing processes and their integration into advanced vessels.
• Build skills in quality assurance, testing, and process optimisation.
• Receive mentorship from engineers and boatbuilders who've worked on everything from America's Cup foils to aerospace structures.

About you

You don't need to be a composites or marine expert. What matters most is curiosity, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to get hands-on. You're working towards (or have recently finished) a degree in mechanical, aerospace, materials, manufacturing, or mechatronics engineering, and you're excited by the idea of contributing to real engineering challenges from day one, not just watching from the sidelines.

We're looking for someone with

• A recently completed or is working towards a degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials, Manufacturing, or Mechatronics Engineering.
• A strong foundation in manufacturing processes and materials.
• Experience with hands-on workshop or fabrication projects, through coursework, internships, or personal projects.
• Ability to follow and contribute to technical drawings, specifications, and work instructions.
• Familiarity with CAD (preferably Onshape).

Bonus experience

• Exposure to composite materials (layup, curing, finishing).
• Knowledge of structural mechanics and load-bearing design.
• Familiarity with production engineering systems (MRP/ERP, MES).
• Experience with tool and fixture design.
• Skills in data collection, analysis, or process documentation.
• Hands-on experience within marine, aerospace, or automotive manufacturing.

About us

We're here to set a better world in motion: cleaner air, better commutes, and deeper connections with nature and each other. Our hydrofoiling electric vessels use up to 90% less energy than traditional boats, unlocking entirely new opportunities.

We're backed by top-tier investors including Blackbird Ventures, and our team includes talent from the America's Cup, SpaceX, Rocket Lab, Halter, Apple, and leading climate startups. But titles don't matter here. What matters is how we show up: with purpose, humility, and a restless optimism for what's possible.

We're office-first but not office-only. We believe in building together, in person, where the real magic happens. That said, we trust our team to do what's right and we know life isn't one-size-fits-all.

Why our people love Vessev

• We're building something different, from how we move on the water to the kind of team and workplace we're creating.
• The chance to work on technology that can drive real, lasting impact in the world.
• A team of hugely talented and collaborative people.
• Competitive salaries that reflect the value of the work.
• Being on the water is part of our job, from trips on our vessels to our offices that border the Tamaki River.
• And if the water's where you want to be, you'll be in good company. You'll find no shortage of boaters, beach goers, sailors, foilers, surfers, and kiteboarders here.

Apply now

If this sounds like the kind of work you want to be doing, hit the apply button. Include your CV and a short cover letter that gives us a sense of who you are and why this role feels like the right fit.

Research shows that women and other under-represented groups often only apply when they meet every requirement, even though they could be an excellent fit. If you see yourself doing great work here, but don't tick every box, we'd still love to hear from you. We're building a team where everyone has the chance to do their best work.

Applications close Sunday 13th September.