WDI Special Effects Designer Intern, Glendale, Spring 2027

About the Role & Program  

Be a part of an innovative team and culture… 

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force that imagines, designs and brings to life all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions and cruise ships worldwide. Working across a spectrum of disciplines that range from creative and conceptual to scientific and technical, Imagineers blend an innovative mixture of storytelling, art, science and technology to create immersive experiences, memorable destinations, and innovative entertainment for families around the globe. 

The approximate date of this internship is January 2027 to June 2027 and will be located in Glendale, CA.

What You Will Do  

The Intern will assist with mock-up, design, production, installation, test/adjust and turnover of all special effects work for one or more attraction/project. This entails efforts both as an individual and while working with leaders and production staff. 

•  Assist overall project team in scope development from concept stage through close-out 

• Preparation and delivery of documentation to establish FX scope on projects. 

• Collaborate with all coordinated teams to ensure internal/external requirements are met 

• Field installation 

• Maintenance and operations training assistance & post turnover support 

• Assist Special Effects lead during concept & design of special effects required to support the show, using appropriate creative and technical methods 

• We produce, install, maintain and fix theme park special effects equipment, per the Special Effects Lead Designers direction 

Required Qualifications & Skills  

• Able to form a general plan to achieve stated goals and the ability to track to that plan to ensure goals are met 

• Basic knowledge of Special Effects installed at Disney theme park attractions. 

• General knowledge of related technical fields and their application to the creation of special effects, optics, mechanics, materials processes etc. 

• Some knowledge of special effects/projection equipment, materials, and processes 

• Solidworks knowledge 

Preferred Qualifications  

• Disney theme park special effects experience 

• Theatrical training 

• Industrial design, manufacturing, operations and maintenance background with some special effects and projection system design experience  

Education  

Currently enrolled as a Junior or higher attending an accredited college/university earning BA or BS in the Arts, Engineering or related field  

Eligibility Requirements & Program Information 

Candidates for this opportunity MUST meet all of the below requirements: 

• Be enrolled in an accredited college/university pursuing a degree taking at least one class at time of application posting OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship  

• Be at least 18 years of age  

• Possess unrestricted work authorization  

• Have not completed one year of continual employment on a Disney internship or program.  

Additional Information 

• Able to provide reliable transportation to/from work  

• Must be fully available for the duration of the internship 

• Able to provide own housing for the duration of the internship in Glendale, CA