AI Programmer Intern

Game Companies; Cary (NC); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Epic Games is seeking a Research Engineering Intern to join the UE AI team. You will explore machine learning and computer vision techniques to develop and test generative animations, neural rendering, and other AI-powered tools within Unreal Engine.

You will prototype ML approaches, prepare data, run experiments, and document findings, communicating progress and insights to mentors and the team through regular updates and a final presentation.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or Master’s degree in Computer Science, ML, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field.
• Foundational programming in Python; C++ experience is a plus.
• Introductory experience with PyTorch or TensorFlow from coursework or projects.
• Foundational ML concepts and interest in practical applications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with eagerness to learn new tools.
• Interest in real-time graphics, CV, ML, animation, or 3D reconstruction; familiarity with Unreal Engine is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Prototype machine learning and generative approaches for game content creation under mentor guidance.
• Support experiments by preparing data, running tests, collecting results, and documenting observations.
• Assist with implementing and testing research concepts using Python and ML tools.
• Read and discuss research papers to stay current with techniques.
• Collaborate with the team to support ongoing research and development projects.
• Communicate progress, ask questions, and incorporate feedback while completing tasks.
• Share work and learnings through updates and a final team presentation.

Skills

Python

C++

Machine learning

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Undergraduate or Master's degree in Computer Science / Machine Learning / Mathematics / Engineering

Tools

PyTorch

TensorFlow

Unreal Engine

Job description

Game Development

0-1 years

Unreal Engine Development

WHAT MAKES US EPIC?

At the core of Epic's success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether it's building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, we're always innovating.

Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. We're constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.

ENGINEERING - UNREAL ENGINE

What We Do

Unreal-powered projects have been on the bleeding edge of real-time entertainment for over 20 years. Our team of engineering experts are always innovating to improve the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.

AI PROGRAMMER INTERN

What You’ll Do

The Epic Games UE Al team is looking for a Research Engineering Intern who is excited about machine learning and artificial intelligence. Epic Games creates and deploys advanced computer vision, computer graphics and machine learning technologies to transform the production and consumption of digital media. This includes physics-based simulation, ML-based character animation, neural and inverse rendering, and automated generative animation techniques, among others. At Epic we research, develop and deploy these technologies for Unreal Engine and other Epic products.

In this role, you will

• Assist with prototyping machine learning and generative approaches for game content creation as part of a defined project with guidance from a mentor
• Support experiments by preparing data, running tests, collecting results, and helping document observations
• Assist with implementing and testing research concepts using Python and relevant machine learning tools
• Read and discuss research papers with team members to develop familiarity with current approaches and techniques
• Work with your mentor and immediate team to support ongoing research and development projects
• Communicate progress, ask questions, and incorporate feedback while working through assigned tasks
• Share your work and key learnings through regular updates and a final presentation to the team

What We’re Looking For

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate (Bachelor's) or Master's degree program in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related discipline
• Foundational programming skills in Python, with C++ experience considered a plus
• Introductory experience with a machine learning framework such as PyTorch or TensorFlow through coursework, academic projects, or personal projects
• Foundational understanding of machine learning concepts and an interest in exploring their practical applications
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with an eagerness to learn new tools, techniques, and technologies
• Knowledge of, or strong interest in, one or more of the following areas: real-time graphics, computer vision, machine learning, animation, large language models, speech recognition, speech synthesis, linguistics, performance capture, or 3D reconstruction
• Exposure to academic research, relevant coursework, personal projects, or open-source contributions in machine learning, computer vision, computer graphics, or related technical areas
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine or another game engine is a plus
• Interest in games, digital humans, or real-time content creation
• Ability to communicate progress, ask questions, collaborate with others, and incorporate feedback

This internship has a flexible start date in 2027. Recruitment will be ongoing until teams find an ideal match. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the posting location for the duration of the internship. For more information about Epic's Early Career Program, visit epicgames.com/earlycareers. This is going to be Epic!

About Us

Epic Games is a leading interactive entertainment company. For over 30 years we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.

Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!

Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here.

Note to Recruitment Agencies

Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here.