Sony Pictures Imageworks ICAD Internship Program 2026

Job Overview

• Company: Sony Pictures Imageworks (Sony Pictures Imageworks Canada Inc.)
• Job Title: ICAD Intern (Industry Character Animation & Design)
• Job Type: Project-Based, Full-Time (8-Week Duration)
• Location: 658 Homer Street, Suite 405, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2R4, Canada
• Work Model: On-Site
• Seniority Level: Internship / Entry-Level
• Required Experience: Recent Graduate or Equivalent Training
• Salary Range: $18.25/hr (Base)
• Reporting Structure: Department Lead / Mentor
• Industry: Visual Effects (VFX) & Feature Animation

Company Overview: The Pinnacle of Digital Storytelling

Sony Pictures Imageworks (SPI) stands as a premier, Academy Award®-winning visual effects and computer animation studio. For over three decades, we have been the architects of some of the most breathtaking and iconic imagery in cinema history. From the gravity-defying aesthetics of the Spider-Verse to the hyper-realistic environments of live-action blockbusters, SPI is defined by a relentless pursuit of innovation and artistic excellence.

Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, our studio operates on the unceded traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. We hold a deep commitment to acknowledging these traditional lands and are dedicated to fostering a culture of reconciliation and meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities.

At SPI, we believe that the intersection of technology and creativity is where magic happens. Our team is comprised of world-class artists, engineers, and visionaries who thrive in a collaborative, high-energy environment. We don’t just follow industry standards; we set them. By joining our Vancouver team, you become part of a global legacy of storytelling that inspires audiences worldwide.

Role Overview: The ICAD Internship Program

The Industry Character Animation & Design (ICAD) Internship is a prestigious, intensive 8-week program designed to bridge the gap between academic excellence and professional mastery. This is not a passive learning experience; it is an immersive, high-impact role tailored for recent graduates who possess a foundational mastery of their craft and a hunger to apply it within a world-class production pipeline.

Scheduled to begin on July 6, 2026, this on-site program provides selected interns with a front-row seat to the complexities of feature-film production. Whether your passion lies in the subtle nuances of character performance or the intricate physics of complex simulations, the ICAD program offers a structured environment to refine your technical skills, build professional networks, and contribute to the high-caliber projects that define Sony Pictures Imageworks.

Key Responsibilities and Learning Objectives

Interns at Sony Pictures Imageworks are integrated into the heartbeat of our studio. Throughout the 8-week tenure, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

• Production Collaboration: Work alongside cross-functional teams to understand the lifecycle of a shot, from initial concept to final render. You will assist in executing tasks that contribute to current feature film or television projects.

• Technical Execution: Apply artistic principles to technical workflows in your chosen discipline (e.g., Animation, FX, Lighting, or Compositing), ensuring all work meets the studio’s rigorous quality standards.

• Skill Refinement: Participate in specialized workshops and training sessions led by senior artists and department leads. These sessions are designed to introduce you to SPI’s proprietary tools and high-end industry software.

• Professional Development: Attend weekly mentorship check-ins to receive candid, constructive feedback on your work. You will learn to navigate the iterative “dailies” process, honing your ability to take direction and implement notes rapidly.

• Networking and Culture: Engage in studio-wide events and networking mixers, gaining insights into the business of VFX and animation while building relationships with the industry’s top talent.

Disciplinary Focus Areas

We are seeking applicants across a variety of specialized departments. Please specify your primary interest in your application:

1. 3D Animation: Focus on character performance, weight, timing, and facial expression.

2. Visual Effects (FX): Explore the world of proceduralism, including smoke, fire, water, and destruction simulations.

3. Modeling & Texturing: Create high-fidelity assets, environments, and characters with an emphasis on topology and surface detail.

4. Lighting & Rendering: Master the art of mood, color theory, and digital cinematography to bring scenes to life.

5. Character FX (CFX): Specialize in the simulation of hair, fur, and cloth to add realism to animated figures.

6. Layout & Compositing: Focus on camera work, set dressing, and the final integration of all visual elements into a seamless frame.

Required Qualifications and Technical Skills

To be considered for the ICAD program, candidates must demonstrate a high level of proficiency and a professional mindset.

Education and Experience

• Recent Graduate: Completion of a Bachelor’s degree, Diploma, or equivalent certificate program from a recognized film, animation, or fine arts institution within the last 12 months.

• Portfolio Excellence: A professional-grade demo reel is mandatory. This reel must demonstrate a clear understanding of the principles of your chosen discipline.

Technical Proficiencies

While specific tools vary by department, familiarity with the following is highly advantageous:

• Industry Standard Software: Proficiency in Autodesk Maya, SideFX Houdini, Foundry Nuke, or ZBrush.

• Pipeline Awareness: An understanding of USD (Universal Scene Description) and Linux-based operating systems is a plus.

• Breakdown Documentation: For any group projects included in your reel, you must provide a detailed breakdown of your specific contributions.

Soft Skills

• Collaborative Spirit: A proven ability to work effectively within a diverse team.

• Adaptability: The capacity to thrive in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.

• Critical Thinking: Strong problem-solving skills, particularly when troubleshooting technical hurdles in a creative pipeline.

Benefits and Perks

Sony Pictures Imageworks provides an environment that nurtures talent and rewards dedication. As an intern, you will enjoy:

• Competitive Compensation: A base hourly rate of $18.25, reflecting our commitment to fair compensation for emerging talent.

• Mentorship: Direct access to Academy Award-winning professionals who are invested in your growth.

• Resource Access: Utilization of the same high-end hardware and proprietary software used to create global blockbusters.

• Career Pathways: Successful completion of the internship often serves as a primary pipeline for full-time Junior Artist roles within the studio.

Application Process: Join the Legacy

The deadline for applications is March 31, 2026. Due to the high volume of interest, we encourage early submissions.

1. Online Application: Visit our career portal and submit your Resume and Cover Letter.

2. Portfolio Submission: Provide a link to your Demo Reel. Ensure your reel is easily accessible (e.g., Vimeo or ArtStation) and includes any necessary passwords.

3. Discipline Selection: Clearly state your preferred department in your cover letter.

4. School Selection: If your institution is not listed in our dropdown menu, please select “Other – Not Listed.”

Sony Pictures Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.