WDI Show Mechanical Engineering Intern, Orlando, 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.

The Show Systems team is responsible for delivering 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. This role involves bringing the creative intent (look, feel, and sound) of Disney stories into physical reality.

The internship is located in Orlando, FL, and runs from January 2027 to June 2027.

Responsibilities

• 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

Requirements

• Currently enrolled as a Junior or higher in an ABET-accredited engineering program in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Engineering Mechanics
• 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)
• 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

Preferred Qualifications

• 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)

Skills

• Mechanical design and engineering
• 3D modeling (SolidWorks)
• Stress analysis and load calculations
• Production support and testing
• Technical documentation

Pay

The pay rate for this role in Florida 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.

Limited housing opportunities for Florida-based professional interns are available through American Campus Communities.