WDI Graphic Designer Intern, Glendale, Summer/Fall 2026

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: WDI Graphic Designer Intern, Glendale, Summer/Fall 2026

Company: The Walt Disney Company

Location: Glendale, CA, United States

Job Type: Full-time Intern

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design

Date Posted: 2026-02-02

Experience Level: 0-2 years (Intern)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on the creative development and execution of graphic design elements for Disney Parks and Resorts.

• The role involves contributing to information design, signage, and show graphics, essential for selling creative ideas and enhancing guest experiences.

• Interns will gain hands-on experience in preparing design documentation, including illustrations, scaled images, and graphics for various project phases.

• The position offers exposure to a unique blend of creative storytelling, art, science, and technology within the immersive entertainment industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically tailored for an intern within Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI), focusing on the tangible design outputs that shape the guest experience in physical Disney locations. The emphasis is on practical application of graphic design skills to support large-scale creative projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and build information design presentations to support creative ideas and project phases across Disney Parks and Resorts.

• Provide design support for Environmental Graphic design projects, assisting in design development and technical documentation.

• Prepare and document signage designs, ensuring clarity and adherence to brand and functional requirements.

• Create and compile design documentation, including illustrations, photographs, scaled images, and graphics relevant to assigned projects.

• Conduct research on assigned projects to inform design decisions and contribute to the overall creative vision.

• Collaborate with senior designers and cross-functional teams to ensure design integrity and project alignment.

• Assist in the preparation of visual assets for proposals, pitches, and internal reviews.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a direct contribution to the conceptualization and realization of physical guest experiences. The intern will be involved in tasks that require both creative output and meticulous documentation, bridging the gap between initial ideas and final implementation in theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience through coursework or previous internships in thoughtful design, artistic skills, and professional judgment in solving graphics and signage design challenges.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in design and illustration tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign.

• Strong skills with 3D modeling software like Sketch-up.

• Competency with Microsoft Office Suite.

• Experience using presentation software such as Keynote.

• Artistic talent and a strong sense of visual composition and aesthetics.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Environmental Graphic Design principles and practices.

• Knowledge of sign construction techniques and related fields (architecture, interior design, landscape design).

• Understanding of Information Design and the creation of presentation decks.

• Experience with video editing software, specifically Adobe After Effects and/or Adobe Premiere Pro.

• Experience with 3D modeling programs such as Rhino, Revit, Maya, ZBrush, or Blender.

• Prior experience with The Walt Disney Company and its brands.

• Membership or familiarity with the Society of Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD).

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates with a broad understanding of environmental and information design, as well as a technical aptitude for various creative software, including video editing and 3D modeling. This suggests the intern will be exposed to a wide range of design challenges within WDI.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of graphic design projects, including information design, signage, and presentation decks.

• Demonstrations of artistic skill, design problem-solving capabilities, and professional judgment.

• Examples of projects that highlight an understanding of how design translates to physical spaces (e.g., theme parks, resorts).

• Inclusion of technical documentation or process examples where applicable.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document design processes, including initial concept development, iterative design stages, and final asset preparation.

• Examples of how research and ideation informed the final design output.

• Documentation of collaboration with peers or mentors on design projects.

• Clear articulation of the design rationale behind portfolio pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is paramount. It should not only display aesthetic quality but also demonstrate the candidate's ability to apply design thinking to solve specific problems within the context of large-scale entertainment environments. The link to the portfolio is a mandatory part of the application.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $26.50 per hour for undergraduate students.

Benefits:

• Medical benefits may be provided.

• Financial benefits may be provided.

Working Hours:

• Full-time engagement, approximately 40 hours per week.

• The internship duration is from May/June 2026 to December 2026.

• Full availability for the entire internship duration is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly pay rate is competitive for a design internship in the Los Angeles area. While specific benefits are limited, the inclusion of medical and financial options suggests a structured internship program. The full-time, fixed-term nature requires complete commitment from the intern.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment, Theme Parks, Resorts, Cruise Ships, Creative Development, Architecture & Design.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (The Walt Disney Company is a global conglomerate with tens of thousands of employees).

Founded: 1923. Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) itself has a rich history as the R&D and design arm of Disney.

Team Structure:

• This internship is within Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI), specifically a team focused on creative information design, signage, and show graphics.

• The team likely comprises senior graphic designers, environmental graphic designers, information designers, and project managers.

• The intern will report to a designated mentor or manager within this team.

Methodology:

• WDI operates on a principle of blending art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences.

• Design processes are highly collaborative, iterative, and focused on storytelling and guest experience.

• Emphasis is placed on translating complex ideas into clear, compelling visual communications.

• Rigorous attention to detail, quality, and adherence to brand standards is critical.

Company Website: https://www.thewaltdisneycompany.com/ (General Disney Careers: https://jobs.disneycareers.com/)

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within Walt Disney Imagineering means being part of a highly creative and innovative environment dedicated to bringing magical experiences to life. The culture values storytelling, meticulous design, and cross-disciplinary collaboration to achieve ambitious projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Intern. This is an entry-level, developmental role designed for students to gain practical experience.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a manager or mentor within the WDI Creative Development team, likely a senior designer or creative director.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role in terms of process optimization, the intern's work directly impacts the operational execution of creative visions. Well-designed signage and information graphics are crucial for guest navigation, safety, and the overall operational flow of theme parks and resorts. The design materials produced by the intern will be used to "sell" project ideas, influencing significant operational and capital investments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in graphic design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), presentation tools (Keynote), and potentially 3D modeling and video editing. Gain practical experience in information design and environmental graphic design principles.

• Industry Exposure: Learn firsthand about the creative process behind major theme park attractions and resort developments. Understand project lifecycles from concept to implementation.

• Networking: Build connections with experienced Imagineers and professionals in the creative and design fields.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Contribute to real-world projects that can significantly enhance a professional portfolio.

• Potential for Future Opportunities: Successful interns may be considered for future internships or entry-level positions within Disney or its related divisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is a significant stepping stone for aspiring graphic designers interested in experiential design. The "operations impact" is indirect but critical—ensuring that creative visions are clearly communicated and executable in physical environments, which is a core function of design within large-scale entertainment operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site internship in Glendale, CA, within Walt Disney Imagineering's facilities. The environment is expected to be collaborative and creative, fostering innovation.

Office Location(s): 1401 Flower St, Glendale, CA, United States.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a creative studio environment, potentially with shared workstations or individual desks.

• Access to industry-standard design software and hardware will be provided.

• Opportunities for collaboration with team members, participation in design reviews, and exposure to ongoing projects.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week.

• The internship runs from May/June 2026 to December 2026, requiring full availability during this period.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles involving hands-on creative work and team collaboration within a large organization like Disney. The Glendale location places the intern within a key hub for WDI's creative development activities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Submission: Submit resume with a mandatory portfolio link and complete the online application.

2. Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications and portfolio relevance.

3. Portfolio Review: Candidates selected for further consideration will undergo a portfolio review. This is a critical step.

4. Interview(s): Successful candidates will likely participate in one or more interviews. These may include:

• A technical interview focusing on design skills, software proficiency, and problem-solving.
• A behavioral interview assessing cultural fit, collaboration, and passion for Disney.
• A presentation of portfolio work, explaining design choices and project outcomes.

1. Final Selection: Offers will be extended to selected candidates.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose your strongest, most relevant projects. Quality over quantity.

• Showcase Variety: Include examples of information design, signage, branding, illustration, and presentation design. If you have 3D or video work, include it.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your process, your role, and the outcome. Use clear, concise language.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency with the required software (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Keynote, Sketch-up, etc.).

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Show how you approached design challenges and arrived at effective solutions.

• Ensure Professionalism: Your portfolio should be well-organized, visually appealing, and error-free. Ensure the link is active and easily accessible.

• Tailor to WDI: If possible, subtly highlight projects that align with Disney's aesthetic, storytelling, or theme park/resort environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your design process in detail.

• Practice articulating your design decisions and rationale.

• Understand how your design work contributes to a larger project or narrative.

• Research Walt Disney Imagineering's past projects and current work to understand their design philosophy and aesthetic.

• Be ready to discuss your passion for Disney and its brands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review signifies that practical design skills and demonstrable talent are the primary selection criteria. Candidates must present a compelling visual narrative of their capabilities and potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign (essential for graphic and illustration tasks).

• Presentation Software: Keynote (critical for information design and pitch decks).

• 3D Modeling Software: Sketch-up (required), with preference for Rhino, Revit, Maya, ZBrush, Blender (demonstrates advanced capability).

• Productivity Software: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design internship role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and Keynote is non-negotiable. Experience with 3D modeling and video editing software will significantly differentiate candidates. The expectation is for interns to be technically adept with a variety of creative tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Storytelling: A core Disney value, applied to how designs communicate narratives and create immersive experiences.

• Innovation: Pushing creative boundaries and leveraging technology to craft unique experiences.

• Excellence: High standards for design quality, execution, and attention to detail.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within teams and across disciplines to achieve common goals.

• Passion: A genuine enthusiasm for Disney's brands and the magic they create.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with frequent interaction among team members and cross-functional partners.

• Open to feedback and iterative design processes.

• Emphasis on clear communication to ensure alignment on creative vision and project objectives.

• Mentorship is a key aspect, with senior staff guiding interns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at WDI is driven by a passion for creating magical experiences. Interns are expected to embrace this passion, contribute creatively, and work collaboratively within a highly professional and detail-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Concepts: Bridging the gap between abstract creative ideas and tangible, functional design elements for large-scale environments.

• Technical Demands: Mastering multiple design software packages and potentially learning new ones quickly.

• Brand Consistency: Adhering to strict brand guidelines while maintaining creative originality.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Working on multiple projects simultaneously with tight deadlines.

• Feedback Integration: Effectively incorporating constructive criticism into design work.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced Imagineers.

• Skill Specialization: Deep dive into information design, environmental graphics, and digital illustration.

• Industry Exposure: Understanding the end-to-end process of theme park and resort design.

• Networking: Building professional relationships within a world-renowned creative organization.

• Portfolio Building: Contributing to high-profile projects that add significant value to a professional portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship presents a challenging yet highly rewarding opportunity to learn from the best in the industry. Interns will face demanding creative and technical challenges that foster significant personal and professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you had to solve a complex design problem. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, design thinking, and results.)

• "How do you approach creating presentations that effectively communicate complex ideas?" (Highlight your information design and storytelling skills.)

• "Describe a project where you had to work collaboratively. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team's success?" (Emphasize teamwork and communication.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Walt Disney Imagineering's approach to design and innovation?" (Research WDI's history, projects, and philosophy.)

• "How do you stay updated on design trends and new technologies?" (Demonstrate continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or with your strongest work first.

• Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the brief/problem, your role, your design process (sketches, iterations), the final solution, and the impact or outcome.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images and mock-ups. Ensure clarity and readability for all text and graphics.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most impactful projects within a given timeframe, focusing on key details.

• Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for design and for the opportunity to contribute to Disney's magical experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical design proficiency and a genuine understanding of Disney's creative mission. The portfolio is the primary tool, but the ability to articulate your process and passion is equally important.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Disney Careers portal.

• Crucially, ensure your resume includes a direct, active link to your online graphic design portfolio. Applications without this link may not be considered.

• Curate your portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase information design, signage, illustration, and presentation skills. Prepare to discuss your process and rationale for each.

• Research WDI: Familiarize yourself with Walt Disney Imagineering's mission, key projects, and design philosophy. Understand how graphic design contributes to immersive guest experiences.

• Practice your "Why Disney": Be ready to articulate your passion for Disney and how your design aspirations align with the company's creative goals.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.