WDI Special Effects Designer Intern, Glendale, Spring 2027

1001 Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc.; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 37,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits include medical

Housing assistance

Job summary

Walt Disney Imagineering in Glendale, CA is seeking a Special Effects Designer Intern to join our WDI Creative Development team. You will assist in the design, production, installation and turnover of FX for attractions and collaborate with cross-functional groups to ensure project success.

The role runs January–June 2027 with hands-on field support, ongoing documentation, and a focus on innovative effects within our shows. Compensation includes hourly pay and select benefits.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in BA/BS program in Arts, Engineering or related field.
• Junior or higher standing in accredited college.
• Some experience with FX equipment and projection is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with mock-up, design, production, installation, test/adjust and turnover of all special effects work.
• Develop FX scope from concept through close-out and document delivery.
• Collaborate with teams to meet internal/external requirements.
• Support field installation, maintenance, and training.
• Assist FX lead during concept and design of FX.
• Produce, install, maintain and fix SF equipment under lead direction.

Skills

Special Effects basics

Technical FX knowledge

SolidWorks knowledge

Education

BA/BS in Arts or Engineering

Job description

WDI Special Effects Designer Intern, Glendale, Spring 2027

Job Posting ID: 10158464

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 and 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

• 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

• 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
• The pay rate for this role in California is $26.50 per hour for undergraduate students and $27.50 per hour for graduate level students.
• Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits.

To learn more about our benefits visit: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.

Job Posting Segment: WDI Creative Development

Job Posting Primary Business: Show Systems (WDI)

Job Posting Category: Creative Intern

Employment Type: Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code: Glendale, CA, USA

Date Posted: 2026-08-24

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