[Hiring] Gameplay Animation Intern @Crystal Dynamics

Role Description

Crystal Dynamics is now accepting applications for a remote spring internship, open to candidates across most U.S. states. As part of this 12-week program, you will take part in meaningful, hands-on work that contributes directly to active AAA projects. Throughout the program, you will step into a professional development environment where ongoing projects, experienced mentors, and collaborative teams give you a direct view into AAA game creation. This internship is designed to help you build industry-ready skills, form strong professional relationships, and deepen your understanding of how world-class games are made!

Qualifications

• Graduated from a college or university program in 2026 (Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter).
• Degree in Animation, Art, Game Art, Technical Art, Game Design, Game Development, Engineering, or related fields.
• Availability to work full-time (40 hrs / week), during core business hours, for the duration of the program (February 1st – April 23rd, 2027), including the first week onsite at our studio in San Carlos, CA for onboarding.
• Legal eligibility to work in the United States.
• Submission of a complete application that includes a resume, cover letter, and a link to your portfolio.

Requirements

• Acquire essential skills using industry-standard tools and software such as Unreal Engine, Maya, and/or MotionBuilder.
• Participate in various game development aspects of the full animation pipeline, including motion capture processing, keyframe animation workflows, and engine implementation.
• Support mid, senior, and lead artists by polishing existing animation assets, helping fix issues, and any other tasks assigned.
• Enhance your understanding of advanced game development technology, focusing on Unreal Engine.

Benefits

• Compensation for this internship is $20-23/hr, location-based.
• Interns are eligible for a medical, dental, and vision benefits package.
• Additional paid days in December when the studio is closed for holiday break.
• Ability to accrue additional paid time-off.

What You Will Gain

• Practical Project Involvement: Contribute to active game development efforts while learning production scope, workflows, and the advanced tools used across modern AAA pipelines.
• Professional Mentorship: Receive guidance from experienced professionals with deep industry knowledge.
• Skill Development: Expand your skill set, establishing a solid foundation for your professional journey.
• Team Collaboration: Work alongside our dedicated onsite and remote teams including fellow interns, building valuable professional relationships within the gaming industry.

What Makes You Stand Out

• Portfolio demonstrating foundational Animation skills, including one or more of the following:
• Animation work demonstrating understanding of animation fundamentals such as timing, pacing, weight, posing, and camera composition.
• Motion capture cleanup or animation retargeting work.
• Exposure to industry-standard development software, tools and engines.
• Industry involvement outside classroom curriculum such as game jams, personal projects and/or contributions to group projects that show going above and beyond.
• Willingness to tackle challenges, learn from feedback, and adapt to new tools or workflows.
• Ability to communicate your ideas with eagerness to learn and turn feedback into action.