Computer Science Internships in Orlando: A Comprehensive Guide

Orlando, Florida, a hub for themed entertainment and technological innovation, offers diverse opportunities for computer science students seeking internships. These internships provide invaluable hands-on experience, allowing students to build a solid foundation for their future careers. This article explores the landscape of computer science internships in Orlando, focusing on eligibility requirements, program structures, and potential employers.

Internship Program Overview

Many internship programs in Orlando share a common goal: to attract, develop, and retain innovative individuals who want to make a difference. These programs aim to provide interns with hands-on experience, allowing them to build a solid foundation for their future careers. Under the guidance of senior staff members, interns often engage in research and analysis projects on various important issues. They may also have the opportunity to participate in administrative and citizen committees, community service events, or even attend board meetings.

Eligibility Requirements

Generally, to be eligible for a computer science internship in Orlando, candidates must meet specific criteria:

Enrollment: Be currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program at an accredited college or university. Many programs prefer students in their junior year or those working towards an advanced graduate degree.
Major: Pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Data Engineering, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a related field.
Academic Standing: In some cases, students must complete prerequisites for their major and be on an approved list by their department to qualify for specific internship courses.
Work Authorization: Be eligible to work in the United States.
Age: Be at least 18 years of age.
Previous Employment: Not have completed one year of continual employment on a Disney internship or program (in the case of Disney internships).
Enrollment Status: At the time of application, must be enrolled in an accredited college/university taking at least one class in the semester/quarter (spring/fall) prior to participation in the internship program AND returning to school the semester/quarter following the internship OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship

Internship Structure and Credit

Some computer science internships in Orlando are designed to be integrated with academic coursework, allowing students to earn academic credit while gaining practical experience. For example, students can participate in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (CECS) Internships for Credit program. To qualify, students may need to meet specific departmental requirements and be added to the department's approved list. Some programs require students to be on the approved list by the department. Internship courses are typically graded on a Satisfactory (“S”)/ Unsatisfactory (“U”) basis. Students who do not meet the requirements for the CECS Internship Course may still report their internship experience or enroll in Experiential Learning’s Internship Course. This can be done through platforms like Handshake, where students can submit their experience under the Career Center > Experiences section.

Potential Employers

Orlando is home to a range of organizations offering computer science internships, including:

Orange County Government

Orange County Government offers internships designed to attract and develop individuals interested in public service. Interns at Orange County are expected to uphold values such as fairness, a strong work ethic, integrity, excellence, innovation, professionalism, and accountability. The mission is to serve the citizens of Orange County and its guests with integrity, honesty, fairness, and professionalism. Exceptional public service is the motto, and they seek individuals ready to serve and make a difference. They value fairness, work ethic, integrity, excellence and innovation, and professionalism and accountability.

The Walt Disney Company

The Walt Disney Company, with its significant presence in Orlando through Walt Disney World Resort, offers various internship opportunities for computer science students. These internships often involve working with groundbreaking technology and contributing to new and spectacular guest experiences. Disney seeks to create a welcoming and respectful environment for both employees and guests. The System App Dev & Sustainment Analyst role at Disney is a full-stack development position. This role involves partnering with leadership and technical teams to ensure smooth system performance and provide regular audits. The role requires developing sustainable solutions within short timeframes and providing administration and support for various systems.

Universal Destinations & Experiences

Universal Destinations & Experiences, with Universal Orlando Resort, is another major employer in Orlando that offers internships in various fields, including computer science. With the recent opening of Universal Epic Universe, the company continues to expand its technological needs and internship opportunities. Universal Creative sparks emotions and transcends reality by designing ground-breaking, immersive, award-winning innovations.

Skills and Qualifications

Specific skills and qualifications are often sought by employers offering computer science internships in Orlando. These may include:

Technical Skills:

Proven experience with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, and SQL.
Strong knowledge of web technologies and libraries such as REST, jQuery, AJAX, XML, JSON, React, Spring Boot, and Maven.
Experience with SharePoint and the SharePoint REST API.
Demonstrated proficiency with Git.
Demonstrated proficiency with Linux and Bash, preferably Fedora-like systems such as CentOS or RHEL.
Experience with CI/CD pipelines such as GitLab CI, etc.
Experience with Docker/Kubernetes (preferred).
Experience with TypeScript (preferred).
Experience with the Mantine React.js design framework (preferred).
Knowledge of OAuth2/OIDC and Auth (preferred).
Experience with Unit Testing using Jest, JUnit, etc. (preferred).
Experience with web compiling and bundling technologies such as Babel, Webpack, etc. (preferred).
Familiarity with ORMs such as Hibernate, JPA, etc. (preferred).
Working experience with ServiceNow (preferred).
Experience with Cloud Infrastructure and Software as Infrastructure (preferred).

Soft Skills:

Demonstrated strong analytical skills.
Demonstrated problem-solving and decision-making skills.
Ability to handle and prioritize multiple assignments simultaneously.
Ability to work with multi-functional teams across varying business units with varying priorities.
Previous project management experience (preferred).

Compensation and Benefits

The pay rate for computer science internships in Orlando can vary depending on the employer, the role, and the intern's experience and qualifications. For instance, Disney has offered a pay rate of $42 per hour for certain intern roles in Orlando. Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Application Process

The application process for computer science internships in Orlando typically involves submitting an online application, resume, and cover letter. Some employers may also require candidates to complete assessments or participate in interviews. It's essential to carefully review the specific requirements and deadlines for each internship program.

Additional Information

Some internships are primarily on-site positions, meaning interns will need to provide their own housing and reliable transportation for work in the Orlando, FL area. However, some companies like Disney provide limited housing opportunities for Florida Based Professional Interns through American Campus Communities. Program lengths vary, with some internships spanning several months.

Read also: Computer Science College Guide

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