WDI Special Effects Designer Intern, Orlando, Spring 2027 2026

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

Responsibilities

• Assist with mock-up, design, production, installation, test/adjust and turnover of all special effects work for one or more attraction/project, both individually and while working with leaders and production staff.
• Assist the overall project team in scope development from concept stage through close-out.
• Prepare and deliver documentation to establish FX scope on projects.
• Collaborate with all coordinated teams to ensure internal/external requirements are met.
• Support field installation.
• Assist with maintenance and operations training, and provide 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.
• Produce, install, maintain and fix theme park special effects equipment, per the Special Effects Lead Designers direction.

Requirements

• Able to form a general plan to achieve stated goals and track progress 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, including optics, mechanics, and materials processes.
• Some knowledge of special effects/projection equipment, materials, and processes.
• SolidWorks knowledge.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled as a Junior or higher in an accredited college/university earning a BA or BS in the Arts, Engineering, or a related field.
• Must be enrolled in an accredited college/university 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.
• Must possess unrestricted work authorization.
• Must not have completed one year of continual employment on a Disney internship or Disney College Program.
• Able to provide reliable transportation to/from work.
• Must be fully available for the duration of the internship.

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.

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. Learn more here.

Pay

The pay rate for this role in Florida is $26.50 per hour for undergraduate students and $27.50 per hour for graduate-level students.