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WDI Illusion Maker - Surface Development Intern, Glendale, Summer 2026
Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10141436 Location Glendale, California, United States Business Disney Experiences Date posted Feb. 02, 2026Job Summary:
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 June 2026 to August 2026 and will be located in Glendale, CA.
What You Will Do
This intern will be a part of the very early stages of the Imagineering process! These interns use their hands and tools to fabricate and assemble complex prototypical mechanical and electrical systems that support the designs created by their Design and Integration colleagues. They are often called upon to support complex mock-ups and to participate in installations for new or renovated attractions. Must be a self-starter and motivated to use your mechanical or electrical knowledge to create new and exciting effects and illusions!
- Work with designers and team leaders to supporting the design and fabrication of illusions, special effects and prototypical animated robotic figures utilized in our theme parks and attractions
- Research and provide information for technical publications
- Assist in the determination of detailed work plans and priorities
- Research standard parts, materials, and catalogue items
- Produce quick mockups and iteration
- Be involved in installation and integration as directed
- Participate in problem solving and brainstorming sessions
Required Qualifications & Skills
- Enthusiasm for the Disney product
- Ability to manage time while working on multiple projects
- Basic carpentry knowledge
- Electrical knowledge including:
- Ability to read and interpret wiring diagrams, wiring lists and connector schedules
- Ability to wire and troubleshoot simple assemblies and systems
- Ability to conduct basic repair using diagnostic equipment and software.
- Surface Development knowledge including:
- Basic understanding of 3D printing technologies and materials
- Ability learn the operation and maintenance of 3D printing machines/equipment
- Basic understanding of software packages used in creating 3D print part files/models
- Basic understanding of plastic materials, including adhesives, 3D print part materials, fiberglass, silicone, etc.
- Enthusiasm for continued learning, desire to learn new software programs and develop skill sets
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with the following software is preferred:
- SolidWorks
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects)
- Microsoft Suite
- 3D printing and laser cutting experience
- Prior experience or coursework in mechanical fabrication and assembly
- Prior military or industrial experience in electrical/electronic production including wiring layout and termination
- Prior experience or coursework with fiberglass and silicone tool and part fabrication
Education
- Currently enrolled as a Junior or higher, earning a degree from an accredited college/university, majoring in Mechatronics, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Product Design, Interactive Media, Theater Design, or Exhibit Design
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 Disney College 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 as an Undergraduate student in CA is $26.50 per hour. The pay rate for this role as a Graduate student is $27.50 per hour. Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered. To learn more about our benefits visit: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.
About Disney Experiences:
Disney Experiences brings the magic of Disney stories and franchises to life through theme parks, resorts, cruise ships, unique vacation experiences, products and more around the world. Disney shines in the travel industry with six resort destinations in the United States, Europe and Asia; a top-rated cruise line; a popular vacation ownership program; and an award-winning guided family adventure business. Plus, Disney's global consumer products operations include the world's leading licensing business; the world's largest children's publishing brands; one of the world's largest licensors of games across all platforms; and Disney store locations around the world and on the web.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., which is part of a business we call Disney Experiences.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.