ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Game Design Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

IDEO

Senior Design Lead

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$153K - $160K/yr

... of play, game mechanics, and interactive storytelling to inform design concepts, ensuring ... Intern or any occupation, job title, position involving interaction and graphic design for digital ...

Tencent

Game Operations Intern

Los Angeles, CA

$24.81 - $42.70/hr

Basic proficiency in office software and design tools * Strong sense of responsibility and teamwork spirit Preferred Qualifications * Experience in game community management or content creation

Tencent

Game Operations Intern

Irvine, CA

$24.81 - $42.70/hr

Basic proficiency in office software and design tools * Strong sense of responsibility and teamwork spirit Preferred Qualifications * Experience in game community management or content creation

Xsolla

Performance Coaching Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20/hr

This person will work directly alongside our Performance Coaches to support the design, delivery ... Grounded in the belief in the future of video games, Xsolla is resolute in the mission to bring ...

Centerfield

Software Engineer Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Understanding of SQL and relational database concepts, including database design and writing ... Breakroom supplied with games, couches, workout equipment + weekly in-office exercise classes ...

Centerfield

Software Engineer Intern

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

Understanding of SQL and relational database concepts, including database design and writing ... Breakroom supplied with games, couches, workout equipment + weekly in-office exercise classes ...

Centerfield

Product Manager Intern

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

... design, content, data science, and executive stakeholders, and execute on ideas. Excellent ... Breakroom supplied with games, couches, workout equipment + weekly in-office exercise classes ...

Centerfield

Product Manager Intern

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... design, content, data science, and executive stakeholders, and execute on ideas. Excellent ... Breakroom supplied with games, couches, workout equipment + weekly in-office exercise classes ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGame Design Intern JobsGame Design Intern Jobs in California

Game Design Intern information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$36

How much do game design intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for game design intern in California is $19.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a Game Design Intern?

As a Game Design Intern, you’ll typically work on a variety of tasks such as prototyping gameplay mechanics, designing levels, documenting game features, and playtesting builds. You’ll often collaborate closely with designers, artists, and programmers, contributing your ideas in brainstorming sessions and providing feedback on in-development features. Interns may also support the team by researching trends or helping refine user experiences. This hands-on involvement offers a valuable opportunity to learn industry-standard tools and gain exposure to the full game development cycle.

What is the difference between Game Design Intern vs Game Developer Intern?

AspectGame Design InternGame Developer Intern
Required SkillsCreativity, game mechanics understanding, basic design toolsProgramming, coding, software development
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, creative departmentsDevelopment teams, coding environments
Typical TasksConcept creation, level design, prototypingWriting code, debugging, implementing features

Game Design Interns focus on conceptualizing game mechanics, designing levels, and creating prototypes, while Game Developer Interns work on coding, software development, and implementing game features. Both roles often collaborate but differ mainly in skill set and daily tasks, with design interns emphasizing creativity and planning, and developer interns concentrating on technical programming.

What does a Game Design Intern do?

A Game Design Intern assists game designers and development teams in creating and refining video game concepts, mechanics, and levels. Their responsibilities often include brainstorming ideas, prototyping gameplay elements, providing feedback on game features, and conducting playtests. Interns may also help document design decisions and collaborate with artists, programmers, and other team members to ensure the game is engaging and meets quality standards. This role is a great way to gain hands-on experience and learn about the game development process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Design Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Design Intern, you generally need a solid understanding of game mechanics, storytelling, and basic programming or design principles, often supported by coursework or a related degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, and graphic or prototyping software is highly valuable. Creativity, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you contribute ideas and work effectively with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for turning concepts into engaging gameplay experiences and for learning quickly in a dynamic industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Game Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Game Design Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Game Design Intern job openings:
Game Design Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Design Intern job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,777 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Animation Intern (Unpaid for Course Credit Only)

Dreamscape Learn

Culver City, CA • On-site

Internship

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

We’re looking for a creative and motivated Animation Intern to support our design and content team. This internship is ideal for students interested in animation, motion graphics, and storytelling who want hands-on experience working on real projects in a collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

  • Assist with creating 3D animations for digital experiences
  • Help with props, vehicles, basic character or environment animation
  • Collaborate with designers, artists, and cross-functional teams to bring
  • concepts to life
  • Revise animations based on feedback and project needs
  • Help organize animation assets and files

Requirements

  • Currently enrolled student pursuing Animation, Motion Design, Game Design, or a related field
  • Familiarity with animation principles (timing, spacing, squash & stretch, etc.)
  • Experience or coursework using tools such as Premiere Pro, Blender, Maya, Unity, or similar
  • Strong attention to detail and willingness to learn
  • Ability to take direction and meet deadlines
  • Portfolio or samples of animation work (class projects welcome)

Nice to Have

  • Experience with Unity, Unreal Engine, or interactive media
  • Basic drawing, 3D modeling, or rigging skills
  • Interest in immersive, educational, or interactive experiences
  • Previously played vr games content

Benefits

  • Real-world animation experience on active projects
  • Mentorship and feedback from experienced creatives
  • Portfolio-worthy work
  • Exposure to a professional creative production pipeline
  • Exposure to real world tracking documents like Jira, Confluence and Shotgun
  • School credit (as approved by your academic program)

Disclaimer: This internship is an unpaid educational opportunity intended to provide training and experience related to Human Resource Management. It is offered for academic credit only in connection with an accredited educational program. Participation is designed for the benefit of the student and does not create an employment relationship. Interns will not displace regular employees and will work under close supervision to support their learning experience. Completion of this internship does not entitle the intern to a job at Dreamscape Learn (or continued employment) at the conclusion of the program.