Mechatronics & Electrical 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.

At the heart of this technology are our hydrofoils, high-performance composite structures that enable efficient, stable, and sustainable flight above the water. We're looking for an intern to get hands-on with the design, manufacture, testing, and continuous improvement of our hydrofoil systems, working alongside our engineering, electrical, and manufacturing teams. 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, manufacture, and validation of the electrical and mechatronic systems that bring our hydrofoils to life, gaining experience across composite manufacturing, structural testing, prototype development, and performance validation. No two weeks will look the same. One day you might be validating a battery system on the water, the next you'll be writing code to support a control system test.

• Assist with electrical testing and validation, supporting the testing of power distribution, battery systems, sensors, actuators, and control hardware in both workshop and on-water environments.
• Contribute to software development, coding to support electrical and mechatronic system design and testing, using Python, C/C++, and PLC to IEC61131.
• Support system integration, helping install and integrate electrical and mechatronic systems into vessels, working closely with mechanical and software engineers to ensure seamless operation.
• Collect and analyse data, using diagnostic tools and sensors to evaluate system performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Help build prototype systems, assembling wiring harnesses, electrical panels, test rigs, and prototype systems, gaining practical experience with industry-standard tools and processes.
• Support troubleshooting and problem solving, helping with fault finding, system diagnostics, and root-cause investigations to improve product reliability and performance.
• Contribute to continuous improvement, bringing ideas that simplify electrical systems, improve manufacturability, and enhance quality, safety, and efficiency.

What you'll learn

• Gain real-world experience developing, integrating, testing, and validating electrical and mechatronic systems used in cutting-edge electric hydrofoil vessels.
• Get exposure to advanced technologies, including high-voltage power distribution, battery management systems (BMS), embedded control systems, sensors, actuators, and vessel communications.
• Build practical skills in CAD, wiring harness design, data acquisition, system integration, diagnostics, troubleshooting, and validation testing.
• Work alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams, seeing how mechanical, electrical, and software systems come together to create world-class marine technology.
• Receive mentorship from industry experts who've developed technology for America's Cup racing yachts, high-performance motorsport, aerospace, and advanced electric propulsion systems.

About you

You don't need to be a marine or EV 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 electrical, mechatronics, or electronics 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 Electrical, Mechatronics, or Electronics Engineering.
• A strong foundation in power systems, electrical circuits, and control systems.
• Experience with testing, validation, or integration of electrical systems, through coursework, personal projects, or internships.
• Ability to read, interpret, and contribute to schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.

Bonus experience

• Exposure to high-voltage or high-power electrical systems, ideally in EVs, robotics, or aerospace.
• Knowledge of batteries and battery management systems (BMS).
• Knowledge of embedded systems, microcontrollers, or PLC-based control.
• Familiarity with electric propulsion and/or actuators.
• Skills in data analysis and automation using Python or similar.
• Hands-on experience working with marine, aerospace, or automotive electrical systems.

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.