WDI Show Mechanical Engineering Intern, Glendale, Spring 2027

About the Role

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.

This internship is approximately from January 2027 to June 2027 and will be located in Glendale, CA.

Responsibilities

We are looking for a Show Mechanical Engineering intern to join the Show Systems team, which delivers world-class Audio-Animatronic figures, show action equipment, and special effects throughout their full lifecycle. The intern will support mechanical engineering tasks related to the creation of animatronic figures and show action equipment, focusing on fantastic show, lifelike performance, durability, reliability, and safety.

• Design mechanical components under the direction of others
• Create models and drawings in SolidWorks
• Perform calculations for machine designs such as development of loads, stress analysis, and motor and component sizing
• Provide production support for animated figures and show action equipment
• Support test and commissioning of animated figures and show action equipment
• Generate drawings and engineering reports to document engineering designs

Our diverse needs include areas such as design engineering, machine design, mechanical analysis, advanced 3D modeling, 3D printing, production processes, and material sciences. Candidates should be passionate about growing their skills in these areas as they relate to themed entertainment.

Requirements

• Ability to perform basic engineering analysis and calculations
• Basic knowledge of mechanical components and manufacturing processes
• Experience with SolidWorks or equivalent 3D modeling tools
• Availability to work various shifts commensurate with global project requirements (typically 8 AM – 5 PM)

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled as a Junior or higher in an ABET-accredited engineering program in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Engineering Mechanics
• Must be enrolled in an accredited college/university pursuing a degree, taking at least one class at the time of application posting, OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Possess unrestricted work authorization
• Must not have completed one year of continual employment on a Disney internship or program
• Able to provide reliable transportation to/from work
• Must be fully available for the duration of the internship
• Must provide own housing

Preferred Skills

• Demonstrated/proven strong leadership, technical, and interpersonal skills
• Self-starter with demonstrated initiative—able to handle multiple tasks and priorities
• Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) (ANSYS preferred)
• Familiarity with mechanical system modeling tools (MATLAB or Simulink preferred)

Pay

The pay rate for this role in California is $31.00 per hour for undergraduate students and $36.00 per hour for graduate-level students.

Benefits

Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits. To learn more, visit Disney Careers Benefits.