Job Posting Title:

WDI Research & Development Intern

Req ID:

10142663

Job Description:

R&D Prototype Technical Intern
About the Role & Team
Walt Disney Imagineering brings Disney stories, characters, and worlds to life by combining innovation and storytelling. As the creative, design, engineering, and R&D arm of The Walt Disney Company, Imagineering leads the concept, development, and delivery of Disney resorts, theme parks, attractions, and immersive experiences worldwide.

Imagineering Research & Development uses technology to create new guest experiences and develop innovative tools for Imagineers and Cast Members. The R&D team—engineers, designers, artists, and scientists—solves complex problems and builds groundbreaking prototypes that inspire and inform future experiences.

The R&D Prototype Technical Intern for Advanced Fabrication Research will report to the Prototype Engineering Project Lead and work full-time on projects that push the boundaries of state-of-the-art fabrication.

What You Will Do
• Partner with project leads to translate innovative fabrication concepts—particularly in 3D printing, advanced manufacturing, construction innovation, and 6-axis robotic carving—into clear scopes, deliverables, schedules, and budgets.
• Support project management across multiple advanced fabrication R&D initiatives, maintaining clear priorities, high quality, and on-time delivery.
• Contribute to technical discussions on emerging manufacturing technologies and robotics feasibility.
• Identify and assess technical risks and project issues, escalating concerns as needed to maintain momentum.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams of engineers, designers, scientists, and external partners to achieve project goals.
• Assist with vendor coordination for material testing, prototyping, and specialized services, including contract and payment oversight.
• Help plan and execute proof-of-concept prototypes, balancing time, cost, scope, and complexity, and adapting plans as new insights emerge; document results clearly.
• Act as a connective force across disciplines and personalities, fostering
collaboration, innovation, and strong R&D outcomes.
• Support monthly budget reviews, ensuring effective allocation and tracking of
resources, from software to robotic hardware.

Required Qualifications & Skills
• Demonstrated ability (through coursework, projects, or internships) to translate high-level goals or scope descriptions into organized, actionable work plans.
• Working proficiency in Excel (e.g., formulas, basic financial analysis, structured tables).
• Comfortable engaging with engineers and designers to understand technical
context and project requirements.
• Ability to explain financial or operational information in clear, non-financial
language to technical audiences.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage
multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• Collaborative team player able to build positive working relationships across
disciplines, seniority levels, and working styles.
• Curious and proactive learner with an interest in expanding knowledge beyond prior experience.
• Comfortable working in a creative, fast-paced, and innovation-oriented
environment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to synthesize information and support
informed decision-making.
• Positive attitude, dependable work ethic, and strong attention to detail.
• Experience or interest in themed entertainment, architecture, engineering, or the built environment is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience working with early development teams and prototype products
Experience with advanced manufacturing, physical prototyping, embedded systems, robotics, construction management or innovation Education
Bachelor’s degree with comparable industry experience in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, architecture, or computer science.

Additional Information
This role is located in Glendale, CA.

The pay rate for this role in Glendale, CA is $42 per hour for undergraduate and $47 per hour for graduate. 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.

Job Posting Segment:

WDI R&D and Tech Studio

Job Posting Primary Business:

R&D and Tech Studio (WDI)

Primary Job Posting Category:

Technology Intern

Employment Type:

Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Glendale, CA, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:

2026-02-23