Embarking on a career in animation can feel like stepping into a vibrant, dynamic world, and for aspiring artists and storytellers, DreamWorks Animation offers a launchpad into this exciting industry. Similar to other leading studios in animation, DreamWorks recognizes the importance of nurturing emerging talent. Their early career programs are meticulously designed to provide students and recent graduates with invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship, setting the stage for a successful animation career.
DreamWorks’ commitment to fostering the next generation of animation professionals is evident through their comprehensive suite of early career opportunities. These programs, much like those you might find at other major animation houses, including Disney, are tailored to provide deep dives into the animation pipeline, cultivate essential skills, and offer a real taste of working in a high-caliber creative environment. Whether your passion lies in 2D or CG animation, story development, or the technical artistry behind the scenes, DreamWorks’ early career programs could be your gateway to realizing your animation dreams.
This article delves into the various early career programs available at DreamWorks, outlining what each program offers, who is eligible, and how you can take the first step towards joining their world-renowned studio. If you’re exploring animation career paths and considering studios known for their commitment to early talent development, understanding DreamWorks’ offerings is a crucial step in your journey.
Dive into DreamWorks Internship Program
The DreamWorks Internship Program is a highly sought-after opportunity for students and recent graduates eager to immerse themselves in the world of TV and Feature Animation. Interns are not just observers; they are active participants, working alongside seasoned artists and storytellers on real productions. This program offers a comprehensive understanding of both the 2D and CG animation pipelines, providing a practical education in a bustling creative studio setting.
Offered three times a year – in Spring, Summer, and Fall – these internships are designed to be accessible and impactful. They are open to both current students and recent graduates (within six months post-graduation), ensuring a wide pool of emerging talent can apply. Recognizing the evolving work landscape, DreamWorks internships are paid, run for 10 weeks, and are offered in both remote and hybrid formats, adapting to the needs of various departments and intern cohorts.
Qualities of an Ideal DreamWorks Intern:
DreamWorks seeks interns who are not just skilled but also possess a specific mindset conducive to learning and thriving in a collaborative animation environment. The ideal candidate embodies:
- Curiosity and a Thirst for Knowledge: A genuine eagerness to learn and absorb new information about the animation process.
- Passion for Animation: A deep-seated love for the art of animation and storytelling.
- Humility and a Sense of Humor: An ability to take feedback constructively and not take oneself too seriously in a creative field.
- Proactive Problem-Solving: Resourcefulness and initiative in finding solutions and answers independently.
- Receptiveness to Feedback: Comfort in receiving and applying constructive criticism to improve their work.
- Decisiveness and Confidence: The ability to make informed decisions and trust their judgment.
- Self-Motivation and Drive: An intrinsic desire to excel and make the most of the internship experience.
- Willingness to Ask Questions: Not being afraid to seek clarification and help when needed.
- Positive Attitude: Maintaining an optimistic and enthusiastic approach to challenges and opportunities.
Application Deadlines and Key Dates:
Given the program’s popularity and the high volume of applications, it’s crucial to adhere to the deadlines. DreamWorks emphasizes the need for ample time to thoroughly review each application and match candidates with the most suitable teams.
Summer 2025 Internship Applications Open: March 3rd, 2025
Applications Close: March 9th, 2025
Summer 2025 Internship Program Dates: June 9th – August 15th
How to Apply: Keep an eye on the DreamWorks careers website for the application portal to open as the deadlines approach. Specific internship offerings vary each season, so be sure to check the details for the term you are interested in.
Departments Offering Internships:
DreamWorks offers internships across a wide spectrum of departments, providing opportunities to explore various facets of animation production:
- Business Affairs/Legal
- CFX/FX
- Current/Preschool Series
- Development
- Employee Engagement & Events
- Feature/TV Animation Production
- Human Resources
- Image Finaling
- Marketing
- Music
- Publicity
- Software Engineering
- Story
- Talent Relations & Casting
- Technical Direction
- Visual Development
Trainee Programs: Hands-On Production Experience
For those seeking a more intensive, production-focused experience, DreamWorks Trainee programs offer a unique pathway. Trainees are embedded directly into Television or Feature productions, learning from award-winning artists while contributing to actual projects. This isn’t just observational learning; trainees are active participants, gaining hands-on experience and building a strong foundation in their chosen specialization.
The Trainee program stands out for its structured curriculum. DreamWorks provides a strategically tailored, comprehensive learning experience led by industry professionals and studio veterans. Directors and Artists take on mentoring roles, guiding trainees through an immersive program designed to accelerate their skill development and industry readiness.
Eligibility for the Trainee program extends to graduates with less than 5 years of experience in the animation industry, as well as individuals transitioning from different careers. This inclusivity makes it an excellent option for those seeking a career pivot into animation or recent graduates looking to quickly advance their skills. The program is a 12-week, full-time, paid opportunity, and is covered by the Animation Guild, offering professional recognition and benefits.
Animator Apprentice Program: Focus on Animation Skills
Aspiring animators with a focused passion for character animation should explore the Animator Apprentice Program. This program is specifically designed to cultivate the skills of animators, providing hands-on experience within a feature film production setting. Apprentices are mentored by a dedicated Program Lead and individually assigned mentors throughout the 12-week duration.
The curriculum is comprehensive, guiding apprentices through multiple assignments that are meticulously crafted to build core animation skills. The program’s ultimate goal is to prepare apprentices for potential roles within the Cycles Animation Team at DreamWorks. This program is open to graduates with less than 2 years of work experience in the animation industry, making it ideal for those at the very beginning of their animation careers. Like the Trainee program, the Animator Apprentice Program is a 12-week, full-time, paid opportunity, also covered by the Animation Guild.
LAUNCH Fellowship Program: Virtual and Inclusive
DreamWorks demonstrates a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion within the animation industry through initiatives like the LAUNCH Fellowship Program. This program is designed to identify and support driven and passionate students from underrepresented communities, including individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, geographies, racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, gender identities, LGBTQ+ community members, individuals with disabilities, and military veterans.
The LAUNCH Fellowship Program breaks down geographical barriers by offering a fully virtual experience. Students can participate from anywhere, without the need for relocation. This 8-week talent development initiative features a comprehensive curriculum comprising workshops, courses, and speaker series, all aimed at creating pathways for students to launch animation careers.
As a LAUNCH Fellow, participants benefit from:
- Professional Network Building: Opportunities to connect with industry professionals and peers.
- Engaging Workshops: Skill-building sessions focused on animation and career development.
- Mentorship from DreamWorks Professionals: Guidance and support from experienced studio professionals.
The program is open to students and recent graduates from diverse backgrounds, further emphasizing DreamWorks’ commitment to inclusivity. Upon successful completion of the program, all Fellows receive a stipend, recognizing their participation and contribution.
Applications Close: January 20th, 2025
The Animator Apprentice Program, often a next step for LAUNCH Fellows or other aspiring animators, offers a 12-week intensive training program within Feature Animation. Successful completion of this training can lead to opportunities to move into cycles animation and eventually become Assistant Animators.
Diversity Outreach: Building a Diverse Talent Pipeline
DreamWorks’ commitment to diversity extends beyond specific programs to a broader Diversity Outreach effort. The DreamWorks Early Career Programs & Diversity Outreach Team is dedicated to proactive strategies for attracting, recruiting, and developing a diverse talent pipeline. School outreach is a significant component of this effort, targeting not only college-level students and recent graduates but also reaching out to junior and high school students to educate and inspire the next generation (Gen Z) about animation careers.
DreamWorks Immersion Day:
A key initiative is DreamWorks Immersion Day, an annual event designed to nurture diversity in animation. This transformative event focuses on students from underserved communities in Los Angeles, aiming to bridge the gap between these communities and the animation industry. Participants gain behind-the-scenes insights into the making of feature films and TV shows, engage with talented artists, and network with creative executives. Immersion Day is not just about diversifying DreamWorks; it’s about fostering a sense of inclusion for communities historically underrepresented in animation.
Summer Speaker Series:
Founded in 2020, the Summer Speaker Series has grown into an annual, week-long virtual event with global reach. This series features a diverse range of topics, from Achieving Authentic Representation to highlighting Black Creatives in Animation. Open to students and professionals worldwide, the Summer Speaker Series provides an inside look into the studio and the creative minds behind DreamWorks’ beloved productions. Announcements for the next Summer Speaker Series are typically shared on DreamWorks’ Instagram and LinkedIn.
Success Stories: Real-World Impact
The impact of DreamWorks’ early career programs is best illustrated through the success stories of past participants. These testimonials highlight the transformative nature of these programs and how they have launched careers within DreamWorks and the wider animation industry.
Myles, Former TV Development Production Intern, Summer 2022, Current Assistant to the Producer/Director:
Myles emphasizes the integral role of his DreamWorks internship in building his career, praising the early careers team for their support and encouragement. He highlights DreamWorks’ commitment to diversity and inclusion as a significant factor in his success as an HBCU graduate in animation.
Kendall, Former TV Production Intern, Fall 2021, Current TV Production Assistant:
Kendall describes her internship as exceeding expectations, providing a supportive environment for growth and exploration. The program facilitated networking with industry professionals and the development of valuable, transferable skills.
Ellie, Former Feature Production Intern, Summer 2022, Current Feature Production Assistant:
Ellie’s experience underscores the hands-on nature of the internship, where she felt like an integral part of the team. The training and support she received led to a smooth transition into a full-time Production Assistant role.
Mike, Former TV Production Intern, Summer 2022, Current TV Production Assistant:
Mike’s story is one of career change, highlighting how the internship provided a pathway into animation after a decade in banking. The program helped him realize his long-held dream of working in the animation industry.
Jiyoung, Former TV Art Trainee, Summer 2022, Current TV Visual Development Artist:
Jiyoung emphasizes the invaluable mentorship and feedback she received during the Trainee Program, which significantly contributed to her portfolio development and career advancement as a Visual Development Artist.
Chad, Former TV Story Trainee, Summer 2021, Current TV Storyboard Revisionist:
Chad credits the Trainee Program for allowing him to refine his skills in a live production environment. The supportive mentorship and opportunities to experiment were crucial to his growth and current role as a Storyboard Revisionist.
Eugene, Former Custom Animation Intern, Summer 2020, Current TV Visual Development Artist:
Eugene’s journey from intern to Visual Development Artist highlights the long-term career trajectory possible through DreamWorks’ early career programs. He emphasizes the comprehensive preparation and networking opportunities the internship provided, along with memorable experiences like community engagement projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About DreamWorks Early Career Programs
Who is eligible for Internships?
Candidates must be pursuing an Associate, Bachelor’s, or Graduate degree at an accredited College/University (or equivalent) or be a recent graduate (within six months of their graduation date).
Who is eligible for Trainee Programs?
Trainee programs are open to recent graduates or entry-level professionals (up to five years post-graduation), individuals re-entering the workforce, or those pivoting from other industries.
Who is eligible for the LAUNCH Fellowship Program?
Eligibility mirrors the Internship Program, requiring candidates to be pursuing a degree or be recent graduates.
Are international students eligible?
Yes, international students are eligible to apply, provided they can furnish the necessary documentation to legally work in the United States for the duration of their U.S.-based internship.
What is the duration of each program?
The Internship Program is 10 weeks long and offered three times annually. The Trainee Program is a 12-week program offered once a year, with potential extensions based on performance and studio needs. The LAUNCH Fellowship Program is 8 weeks in duration.
Where are the programs located?
DreamWorks studio is based in Glendale, California. Internship and Trainee Programs may be offered remotely, on-site, or in a hybrid format, as specified in the job description. The LAUNCH Fellowship Program is entirely virtual.
Are the programs paid?
Yes, all DreamWorks early career programs are paid. Interns and Trainees receive a competitive hourly rate, while LAUNCH Fellows receive a stipend.
What benefits do Interns receive?
Interns gain exposure to studio leaders and are invited to participate in artistic and team-building events, enhancing their overall experience.
Is there potential for full-time employment after the program?
While employment isn’t guaranteed, DreamWorks actively recruits from its early career programs, and many Interns and Trainees have successfully transitioned into full-time roles. LAUNCH Fellows are encouraged to apply for Internships, Trainee programs, and full-time positions.
What majors are accepted into the programs?
DreamWorks welcomes applicants from all majors and academic levels, recognizing diverse skills and perspectives are valuable in animation.
Are there application deadlines?
Yes, application deadlines are program-specific and seasonal. Refer to the Application Deadlines section for details and always check the DreamWorks careers website for the most up-to-date information.
What does the interview process involve?
The interview process varies by role and may include phone screenings, work sample requests, video interviews, or in-person interviews. Recruiters guide applicants through each step. Applicants can track their status via their candidate profile on the DreamWorks careers portal.
How long does it take to hear back after applying?
Due to the high volume of applications, DreamWorks requests 3-4 weeks after the application window closes to notify applicants of their status.
Does DreamWorks provide housing or relocation assistance?
Unfortunately, DreamWorks does not offer housing or relocation assistance. Interns and Trainees are responsible for their own relocation, housing, and daily transportation. However, DreamWorks can offer suggestions and connect interns seeking housing with one another.
What should I emphasize on my resume?
In addition to your portfolio, DreamWorks values work experience, community involvement, and student leadership experience. Keep your resume concise (one page), organized, and focused on relevant experience.
Is a cover letter required?
A cover letter is particularly important for roles emphasizing writing and communication skills (e.g., Publicity, Digital Marketing). Check the job description to see if a cover letter is required for the specific program you are applying for. If required, keep it brief (one page), simple, and avoid merely repeating your resume.
What makes a strong Visual Development portfolio?
An ideal visual development portfolio showcases a strong foundation in design principles, including perspective, composition, painting, lighting, and color theory. Include personal, academic, or professional projects that demonstrate these skills.
What makes a strong Story portfolio?
A strong story portfolio should contain compelling storyboard samples from personal, academic, or professional projects. Demonstrate your storytelling process through sketches, character poses, facial expressions, and designs.
Is the LAUNCH Fellowship Program virtual?
Yes, the LAUNCH Fellowship Program is entirely virtual, eliminating the need for relocation and making it accessible to students nationwide.
DreamWorks early career programs offer a robust and diverse set of opportunities for those looking to break into the animation industry. By focusing on hands-on experience, mentorship, and inclusivity, DreamWorks is not just creating films and TV shows; they are building the future of animation.
