Career Opportunities

BMW Designworks x LA-Tech.org Rising Internship - Summer 2026

Open exclusively to residents of Los Angeles County.

About the Program

Explore the future of mobility, culture, and community with the Summer 2026 BMW Designworks x LA Tech Rising Internship, a paid, 6-week summer internship for early-career creative talent across Los Angeles County.

This year's theme, Celebrating 100 Years of Route 66, challenges participants to reimagine this iconic corridor for a modern, global city preparing for major international events. Working as designers, researchers, and strategists, interns will develop concepts at the intersection of mobility, placemaking, storytelling, and community experience. You'll collaborate in studio sessions, receive mentorship from BMW Designworks professionals, and present your work at a Final Showcase in Santa Monica.

Who Should Apply

Those majoring in:

• Graphic Design
• Interaction Design
• User Experience Design
• Urban Studies & Planning
• Architecture/Architectural Design
• Digital Media/Multimedia Storytelling

Project Focus: Route 66 -- Creative Innovation for Mobility & Experience

Interns will be assigned to a team project. Project focus areas are:

• Future mobility and transit concepts along Route 66
• Visual storytelling, branding, or digital experiences celebrating Route 66's cultural legacy
• Placemaking, public space, or activation design

Summer 2026 Timeline

• Applications open: April 20, 2026
• Program start: June 15, 2026
• In-person days: Mondays & Tuesdays (times TBD)
• Duration: 6 weeks at 20-30 hours per week
• Final Showcase: July 24, 2026, at BMW Designworks in Santa Monica

*We cannot accommodate late starts or early dismissals. Please plan accordingly.

Eligibility

• Be between the ages of 18 and 24*
• Currently reside in Los Angeles County (proof will be required if selected*)
• Able to commit 20-30 hours per week for the full duration of the program

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience or strong interest in design, interactive design, architecture, urban culture, mobility, tourism, storytelling, or a related discipline
• Comfortable in collaborative team settings

Compensation*

Paid at California's minimum wage through LA County's Youth@Work Program. Compensation is not negotiable.

To Apply

Applications are submitted through LA-Tech.org. Upload your most current resume and short video response. Portfolios, design samples, or work samples are strongly encouraged. Applications without a resume will not be considered.

• Short video prompt (1-1.5 minutes maximum): "Briefly introduce yourself and share what excites you about design, storytelling, and/or creating experiences."

*Please note, interviews may be requested to determine finalists.

**Please submit your resume under the "Upload File* field on the next page.

Check out our promotional video!