Launch Your Toy Design Career: Internships and Opportunities

For aspiring designers eager to shape the future of play, internships in toy design offer invaluable experience and a foot in the door to a dynamic industry. These programs provide hands-on learning, mentorship, and the chance to contribute to iconic brands and innovative products. This article explores the requirements, opportunities, and benefits of toy design internships.

The Allure of Toy Design Internships

Toy design internships are more than just a resume builder; they are immersive experiences in the world of creativity, innovation, and child-centric thinking. Interns get to see their ideas come to life, transforming sketches and concepts into tangible toys that bring joy to children and adults alike.

LEGO Design Internship: A Gateway to Playful Innovation

The LEGO Group, a name synonymous with imagination and building, offers a particularly appealing internship program. As a LEGO Design Intern, you’ll spend 4 months immersed in innovation, design, and the magic of play.

Program Overview

The LEGO Design Internship Program is designed to immerse interns in the LEGO way of product development. With a dedicated onboarding program, a mentor's guidance, and a diverse skillset around you, you'll learn the LEGO way of product development. This is your opportunity to refine your skills and evolve as a design professional.

Element Design Internship

Within the LEGO program, aspiring Element Designers can find a unique opportunity. As an Element Design Intern, you’ll be part of the LEGO® Element Design Team. Here, sketches transform into 3D models and prototypes, birthing new LEGO elements that will shape generations of play. You’ll breathe life into ideas, and mold dreams into reality, contributing to the evolution of the LEGO universe. Your work will directly impact the development of new elements that inspire creativity in builders around the globe.

Read also: Breaking into Motion Graphics

Location and Community

All LEGO Design internships take place in Billund, Denmark, the heart of the LEGO Group. Here you’ll join an organisation with more than 600 creative professionals from around the world. You’ll live alongside other interns, building friendships and networks that last beyond your internship.

Eligibility and Application Requirements

Landing a toy design internship requires a combination of education, skills, and a compelling portfolio. Here's a breakdown of the typical requirements:

Educational Background

Most internships target students pursuing degrees in related fields, such as:

Industrial Design
Product Design
Mechanical Engineering
Toy Design

Technical Skills

Proficiency in 3D modeling software is often a must-have. Familiarity with programs like:

SolidWorks
Rhino
NX
Blender
Zbrush
Nomad Sculpt

Portfolio, CV, and Cover Letter

A strong portfolio is crucial for showcasing your design abilities and creative potential. Applications must include portfolio, CV, and cover letter (all in English). Your portfolio should highlight your best work, demonstrating your skills in sketching, 3D modeling, prototyping, and design thinking. The CV should outline your education, experience, and relevant skills. The cover letter is your opportunity to express your passion for toy design and explain why you're a great fit for the internship.

Application Timing

Deadlines vary depending on the company and the internship season. For LEGO, note the following:

Spring Internship (March-June): Apply by November 1, 2025.
Autumn Internship (September-December): Apply by March 1, 2026.

Application must also clearly state if you’re applying for the Spring or Autumn internship.

Benefits of a Toy Design Internship

Beyond the experience gained, toy design internships offer a range of benefits:

Hands-on Experience: Gain hands-on experience in your chosen design area.
Mentorship: Collaborate with experienced LEGO designers and industry experts.
Real-World Impact: Contribute to the creation of iconic LEGO products.
Networking: Build connections with industry professionals.
Career Advancement: Many participating companies have gone on to hire their interns upon graduation.

Additional Perks at LEGO

LEGO internships come with their own set of perks:

Family Care Leave: We offer enhanced paid leave options for those important times.
Insurances: All colleagues are covered by our life and disability insurance which provides protection and peace of mind.
Wellbeing: We want our people to feel well and thrive. We offer resources and benefits to nurture physical and mental wellbeing along with opportunities to build community and inspire creativity.
Colleague Discount: We know you'll love to build, so from day 1 you will qualify for our generous colleague discount.
Bonus: We do our best work to succeed together. When goals are reached and if eligible, you'll be rewarded through our bonus scheme.
Workplace: When you join the team you'll be assigned a primary workplace location i.e. one of our Offices, stores or factories. Our hybrid work policy means an average of 3 days per week in the office. The hiring team will discuss the policy and role eligibility with you during the recruitment process.

Other Internship Opportunities

The LEGO Group isn't the only avenue for aspiring toy designers. Other companies offering internships include:

Faber-Castell/Creativity for Kids
Commonwealth
Mattel
Hasbro
Jazwares
KIDdesigns
Nickelodeon
Spin Master/GUND

Gaining an Edge

Like any competitive field, it helps to set yourself apart when applying for internships.

Showcasing Your Passion

Demonstrate a genuine love for toys and an understanding of the industry. Research current trends, analyze successful toy designs, and articulate your vision for the future of play.

Developing a Unique Style

Cultivate your own design aesthetic. Experiment with different styles, techniques, and materials to develop a portfolio that reflects your individuality.

Networking

Attend industry events, connect with designers on social media, and reach out to companies you admire. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities you might not otherwise find.

The Future of Play

Toy design internships are a launchpad for careers that shape the way children learn, grow, and have fun. By honing your skills, building your network, and embracing your creativity, you can contribute to the ever-evolving world of play.

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