WDI Show Programming (Figure Animator) Intern, Spring 2026

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 2026 to June 2026 and will be located in Glendale, CA.

What You Will Do

As an intern working within WDI Animation you will have the opportunity to work with the team that is a one-stop shop for prototypical design, engineering, manufacturing, assembly, figure finishing, installation, show programming and animation. This is the group that “creates the illusion of life” within our attractions to tell amazing stories! This department includes managers, technical specialists and engineers who provide delivery of high-quality Audio-Animatronics to Disney theme parks that are safe, meet creative intent, and are easily maintainable. You will have the opportunity to:

• Work closely with other Show Programmers to operate and maintain Animation & Show Programming system’s highly specialized hardware and software tools
• Assist in creating, debugging, and organizing Audio-Animatronic figures’ digital assets (character sheets, animation data, rigs, ride paths, shots, and/or models)
• Help develop Audio-Animatronics figures’ animation performance and functionality
• Create quality animation for Audio-Animatronics figures with compelling performances that adhere to the requirements of the mechanical system
• Partner with the show Art Director and other Show Programmers to program special effects, audio, animated props and show action equipment
• Organize, secure and maintain show data created by the Animators and Show Programmers
• Learn proprietary software packages

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Proficiency in CG character animation
• Being a creative problem solver and an enthusiasm for coming up with inventive solutions
• Ability to function in a dynamic work environment, managing multiple project tasks
• Ability to provide basic technical support for computer graphic animation applications
• Ability to work with limited supervision but be able to integrate inputs from many individuals and work as a team member
• High tolerance for change and changing requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Desired software knowledge/familiarity among several of the following: Maya, MotionBuilder, Z-Brush, MS Excel, Adobe Creative, ShotGrid,
• Experience in Unreal Engine

Education

Currently enrolled as a Junior or higher attending an accredited college/university earning a degree majoring in Art, Illustration, Computer Graphics, Animation, Film, Television, Game Development, or related field.

Eligibility Requirements & Program Information

Candidates for this opportunity MUST meet all of the below requirements:

• 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

#DisneySpringInternshipsUS

The pay rate for this role in Glendale, CA 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.