Gameplay Programming Intern - Undergraduate

Insomniac Games•Burbank, CA

3h•$42 - $50

About The Position

Join the Gameplay Programming team at Insomniac Games for hands-on experience developing gameplay features. The intern will work alongside experienced programmers to create and improve gameplay systems, including character controls, player abilities, enemy behaviors, and interactive environments, using C++ on real-world game development projects. The internship includes mentorship from senior Gameplay Programming team members and opportunities to strengthen technical and problem-solving skills while learning how gameplay features are designed, implemented, and refined in a collaborative game development environment. The position is for undergraduate students expected to graduate between May 2026 and December 2029. Interns must be available for the full 12-week period during either May 17–August 6 or June 14–September 3. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates. Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States without requiring current or future work visa sponsorship from SIE. The internship has a fixed hourly pay rate of $41.50–$50 USD. The stated range may vary based on the hybrid working policy, location, and job-related factors such as knowledge, skills, and experience.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a BS/BSE in Computer Science or Computer Engineering; students majoring in Physics or Math with computer programming experience will also be considered.
Ability to program in C++.
Strong interest in gameplay programming and using technical skills to create engaging player experiences.
A creative, self-motivated, and responsible approach to learning and completing assigned work.
Passion for video games and programming, with an interest in developing gameplay features and solving technical challenges.
Expected graduation between May 2026 and December 2029 from an accredited university; undergraduate students only.
Able to work for the entire 12-week internship period during one of the listed date ranges: May 17–August 6 or June 14–September 3.
Authorized to work for any employer in the United States without requiring work visa sponsorship from SIE now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Six to twelve months of related experience and/or training is beneficial but not required for currently enrolled students.

Responsibilities

Develop and improve gameplay features using C++ in collaboration with experienced programmers.
Contribute to gameplay systems involving controls, cameras, characters, breakables, and interactive objects.
Support the development of enemy behaviors, player abilities, and other gameplay mechanics.
Work on platform features, trophies, and visual effects as part of gameplay development projects.
Investigate, track, and fix bugs to improve gameplay functionality and performance.
Collaborate with the Gameplay Programming team to explore technical solutions and learn how gameplay features are developed and refined.
Gain hands-on experience with gameplay programming techniques and development workflows through mentorship from senior team members.