Industrial Light & Magic, Graduate R&D Intern, Summer 2026

Disney • San Francisco, CA

63d

About The Position

Join the R D Department and help shape the future of feature film visual effects at ILM. Our team pioneers advanced computer graphics software, collaborating closely with artists and production crews to develop, deploy, and support innovative technologies, workflows, and user interfaces for VFX production. R D engineers at ILM drive advancements across a range of domains, including: Modeling, Rigging, Animation & Skinning: Next-generation techniques for character and environment creation. Physically-Based Simulation: Realistic rendering of natural phenomena, crowd behavior, and procedural effects. Computer Vision & Data Acquisition: Facial modeling, performance capture, and photogrammetry. Image Processing & Compositing: Cutting-edge tools for image synthesis and enhancement. Virtual Production & Real-Time Rendering: In-camera visual effects and virtual set integration. Pipeline Development: Asset management, 3D scene assembly, and artist-facing tools. As an R D Intern, you'll work on real projects alongside seasoned engineers and artists, gaining hands-on experience in developing tools that power ILM's award-winning films.

Requirements

• Excellent verbal and written communication, with strong interpersonal skills to work across multidisciplinary teams.
• Effective time management, including the ability to prioritize and multitask.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work both independently and collaboratively with a positive, proactive attitude.
• Currently enrolled in an accredited graduate program in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 2 years of academic or professional experience in computer graphics or a related area.
• Be enrolled in an accredited college/university pursuing a degree taking at least one class in the semester/quarter (spring/fall) prior to participation in the internship program AND returning to school the semester/quarter following the internship OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship.
• Current Disney Interns, College, International, or Culinary Program Participants: You may only work for ONE consecutive year (12 months) in any combination of an internship and/or program.
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Possess unrestricted work authorization

Nice To Haves

• Proficiency in C++ and Python programming.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Perforce, Git).
• Demonstrated interest or experience in media production, VFX, or related fields.

Responsibilities

• Apply current computer graphics research to solve real-world challenges in VFX production.
• Design, develop, and test software tools for integration into the visual effects pipeline.
• Support and maintain existing software systems to ensure stability and efficiency for artists and production teams.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees