Engine and Tools Programming Intern – Undergraduate

Insomniac Games•Burbank, CA

About The Position

Join the engineering team at Insomniac Games to gain hands-on experience developing game engine technology that supports game creation. The Engine Programmer Intern works alongside experienced programmers to design, develop, and improve runtime and tools components of Insomniac’s engine technology. The role primarily uses C++ to build efficient systems, improve performance, and create tools that help content creators develop game assets. Depending on interests and expertise, the intern may explore tools development, animation, low-level engine architecture, or rendering. The internship provides practical experience with real-time game engine development, technical problem-solving, and collaboration with production teams while learning how engine technology supports game development. The internship lasts 12 weeks, with one of two available work periods: May 17–August 6 or June 14–September 3. Candidates must be available for the entire internship period. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States and must not require work visa sponsorship from SIE now or in the future. The internship offers a fixed hourly pay rate of $45.75 USD. SIE conducts background checks at the offer stage for all new employees.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Graphics, or a related field.
Proficiency in programming languages such as C++.
Experience with game engines or game development patterns.
Strong problem-solving and debugging skills, with the ability to investigate and resolve technical issues.
Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with artists and programmers.
Interest in learning about emerging game development technologies and staying informed about industry trends.
Expected graduation between May 2026 and December 2029 from an accredited university.
Must be an undergraduate student.
Must be available for the entire 12-week internship period and able to work during one of the listed internship periods.
Must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States without requiring work visa sponsorship from SIE now or in the future.

Responsibilities

Design and develop game engine technology with guidance from team leads, focusing on real-time performance and usability.
Build efficient low-level systems that support higher-level pipelines and game development workflows.
Design and implement tools that help content creators develop and manage game assets.
Maintain and improve existing engine systems to enhance functionality, performance, and reliability.
Explore the capabilities and limitations of specific game platform hardware and how they affect engine development.
Collaborate with production teams to identify technical challenges, troubleshoot issues, and develop practical solutions.
Investigate and respond to bug reports, feature requests, and questions related to engine technology.
Document technical implementation details to support collaboration and ongoing development.
Explore technological developments in the game industry and learn how new approaches can support engine development.