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Game Designer Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Gain experience designing, building, and operating cloud-based applications and services ... Breakroom supplied with games, couches, workout equipment + weekly in-office exercise classes ...

Gain experience designing, building, and operating cloud-based applications and services ... Breakroom supplied with games, couches, workout equipment + weekly in-office exercise classes ...

Enter FILM, TV, PROMO, TRAILER, and VIDEO GAMES sync quotes into the SMP licensing database ... A collaborative culture designed to foster productivity, creativity, and teamwork DISCLAIMER: The ...

Enter FILM, TV, PROMO, TRAILER, and VIDEO GAMES sync quotes into the SMP licensing database ... A collaborative culture designed to foster productivity, creativity, and teamwork DISCLAIMER: The ...

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Game Designer Intern information

See California salary details

$9

$19

$36

How much do game designer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for game designer 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 does a game designer intern do?

A Game Designer Intern assists in the creation and development of video games by contributing ideas, designing game mechanics, and helping with documentation. They often work closely with senior designers and other team members to prototype levels, balance gameplay elements, and test features. Interns also learn about the game development process, receive feedback, and may participate in brainstorming sessions or playtesting. The role is ideal for those looking to start a career in game development and gain hands-on experience in a collaborative environment.

What does a game designer intern do?

In a game designer intern role, you gain experience with designing video games as a student enrolled in a relevant college degree program. Your internship duties are to shadow your mentor as they teach you the responsibilities and skills game designers need to design and implement a vision into a working video game. You work with gaming clients under the oversight of your mentor to learn more about following client needs and goals to create their games. These positions are temporary, with design companies usually offering them over the summer months. Many companies pay their interns a salary throughout their internship, but some companies only provide unpaid positions.

What is the difference between Game Designer Intern vs Game Artist Intern?

AspectGame Designer InternGame Artist Intern
Required SkillsGame design principles, creativity, basic programmingArt skills, graphic design, 2D/3D modeling
Work EnvironmentDesign teams, game development studiosArt departments, visual development teams
Common Industry UsageUsed in game development companies focusing on gameplay and mechanicsUsed in studios focusing on visual assets and art creation

Game Designer Interns focus on creating gameplay mechanics, storylines, and user experience, while Game Artist Interns concentrate on visual assets, character design, and environment art. Both roles are essential in game development but serve different creative functions within the industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a game designer intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Game Designer Intern, you can expect to contribute to various stages of the game development process, from brainstorming and prototyping new gameplay mechanics to assisting with level design and playtesting. Interns often collaborate closely with artists, programmers, and senior designers, gaining hands-on experience in refining game systems and balancing gameplay. You'll likely attend team meetings, provide feedback on in-development features, and help document design decisions. This role offers a valuable opportunity to learn industry best practices while building a portfolio of real-world projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a game designer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Designer Intern, you need a solid grasp of game design principles, storytelling, and basic programming or scripting knowledge, often supported by coursework in game development or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, and prototyping software, as well as version control systems, is highly valued. Creativity, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you effectively contribute ideas and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are essential for translating concepts into engaging gameplay experiences and collaborating efficiently in a dynamic development environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Game Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Game Designer Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Game Designer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Game Designer Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,777 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Audio Intern (Unpaid for Course Credit Only)

Dreamscape Learn

Culver City, CA โ€ข On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

We are looking for an Audio Intern to assist in creating immersive soundscapes for
our exciting and cinematic VR experiences. Your responsibilities will include original
sound design, implementation of assets in the Unity game engine, organization of
music and sfx assets, and setup and assisting VO and sfx sessions.
Applicants must provide their own computer, and be experienced in at least one
DAW (Nuendo, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton etc.).
Responsibilities
  • Create original and engaging audio assets
  • Assist in maintaining sound and music libraries
  • Audio engineering in the game engine
  • Troubleshoot technical issues if they arise

Requirements
  • Technical understanding of basic sound engineering techniques (EQ,
  • compression, etc.)
  • Understanding of post-production or game audio workflow
  • Working knowledge of recording software and hardware
  • Creativity and attention to detail
  • The ability to take constructive criticism and revise as necessary
  • Communication skills are essential

Preferred Skills
  • Experience working with the Unity game engine.
  • An understanding and ability to create ambisonic sounds
  • Efficiency in learning new programs and procedures
  • Ability to adapt to changing creative direction.

Benefits
  • Gain hands-on experience with professional audio equipment and software used in the industry
  • Develop technical skills in recording, editing, mixing, and sound production
  • Build a network of industry professionals, mentors, and potential employers
  • Create a portfolio of real-world projects to strengthen your resume
  • Increase your chances of securing future freelance, contract, or full-time audio positions
  • School credit (per academic requirements

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.