Visual Development Internship

June 16, 2026
$18 - $18 / hour

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Job Description

Visual Development Intern | DreamWorks Animation

The Tone:
This is a Visual Development Internship at DreamWorks Animation, located in Glendale, California. DreamWorks Animation is a leading studio known for producing high-quality, award-winning animated films and series that reach global audiences. The studio creates diverse original content with unique characters and builds immersive new worlds, encouraging adventurous dreamers and valuing individuals who bring non-traditional experiences. This internship offers a collaborative and inclusive environment where students can gain hands-on experience in TV and Feature animated productions, learning directly from creative leaders and artists. The program also features executive speaker series, professional/career development workshops, artistic classes, and community outreach, providing a comprehensive experience for those passionate about animation.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Part-time (24 hours per week required)
• Location: In-person, Glendale, CA
• Pay: $17.87 hourly
• Team: Interns are partnered with a production and work closely with Production Designers and mentors.
• Mission: To imagine, propose, and develop visual ideas for animated worlds based on story, characters, and action for feature films and TV projects.
• Tech Stack: Photoshop, Maya, Blender, ZBrush (preferred)

What You’ll Actually Do
• Develop: Work through concept designs to final designs, including pulling reference, crafting mood boards, and designing sets, props, and color keys.
• Collaborate: Partner directly with a production team for 10 weeks, working closely with Production Designers and mentors.
• Iterate: Ask questions, clarify notes, and ensure designs are completed accurately based on feedback provided by supervisors.
• Communicate: Consistently meet deadlines and provide regular progress updates to supervisors and appropriate production staff.
• Experience: Gain hands-on visual development experience within a production environment over the 10-week program duration.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Currently pursuing an Associate, Bachelor, or Graduate degree at a college or university, or a recent graduate within six months of their graduation date.
• Experience: Demonstrated strong proficiency in Photoshop for visual development tasks.
• Skills: Ability to work in Glendale, California, in an in-person, hybrid capacity. Must be able to provide own relocation, housing, and transportation. Authorization to work in the United States without visa sponsorship, and must be 18 years of age or older.
• Bonus: Experience utilizing 3D tools such as Maya, Blender, or ZBrush is preferred.