Level Design Intern

As a Level Design Intern at Epic Games, your primary responsibilities include collaborating with level designers and environment artists to create engaging and visually stunning landmarks and points of interest in Fortnite. You'll also assist in refining existing landmarks, participate in playtests to gather feedback, and help identify practical solutions to design-related challenges, all while using the Unreal Engine to bring your creations to life.

To thrive as a Level Design Intern at Epic Games, you should have experience with Unreal Engine, particularly in areas such as prop placement, lighting, and atmosphere creation. A deep passion for gaming, particularly in battle royale and multiplayer genres, is essential. Moreover, exceptional communication skills and the ability to efficiently incorporate feedback are vital for success in this collaborative role.

The Level Design Intern position at Epic Games is designed to provide invaluable hands-on experience in the gaming industry. You'll learn from talented professionals, gain insights into collaborative development processes, and have the opportunity to contribute to major game franchises like Fortnite. This experience not only strengthens your design skills but also builds your professional network, preparing you for future career opportunities in game design.

While there is no strict educational requirement for the Level Design Intern at Epic Games, a background in game design, computer science, or a related field is highly beneficial. Courses or experience in level design, game mechanics, and proficient use of design tools such as Unreal Engine will give candidates a competitive edge in the application process.

The recruitment for the Level Design Intern role at Epic Games is ongoing, with a flexible start date in 2025. This allows interns to apply well in advance, providing ample time for both the candidates and the team to ensure a great fit. It's recommended to apply early, as the selection process will continue until the ideal candidates are found.

In your response, detail specific projects or tasks where you've used Unreal Engine for level design. Mention your familiarity with features like modular kits, lighting, and prop placement, and how these elements contribute to creating immersive gaming experiences.

Highlight your understanding of gameplay mechanics, visual appeal, and player flow. Discuss how effective level design not only contributes to aesthetics but also guides players through challenges and enhances their gaming experience.

Show your openness to feedback by sharing an experience where you received constructive criticism. Emphasize your adaptability and willingness to pivot your design based on team suggestions for improvement.

Discuss your strategic approach to crafting gameplay systems, including researching existing systems, brainstorming innovative ideas, and collaborating with other designers to ensure that new elements are fun and cohesive with the game's overall mechanics.

Share a specific example where you played a significant role in a team project, focusing on your contributions, collaborative efforts, and the final outcomes. Highlight your ability to communicate and work cohesively with diverse personalities.

Identify games or designers that impact your design philosophy. Explain what aspects resonate with you, whether it's gameplay mechanics, aesthetic choices, or narrative elements, and how that influences your approach to level design.

Emphasize your commitment to understanding player perspectives by discussing methodologies such as playtesting, gathering user feedback, and analyzing player behavior to refine your designs for better engagement.

Discuss potential challenges like balancing gameplay for all players, ensuring diverse strategies, and maintaining a dynamic environment. Offer potential solutions you've considered or researched to tackle these challenges effectively.

Share strategies that help you keep pace with the fast-evolving gaming landscape, such as attending conferences, participating in online forums, following influential designers on social media, or studying current games that push the envelope in design innovation.

Express your admiration for Epic Games' commitment to innovation and community. Reflect on how interning with a leader in the gaming industry aligns perfectly with your career goals and aspirations, and how you could contribute to the exciting projects they undertake.