What You'll Experience and Do
Internship Details:
- Length: 12 weeks
- Format: The work location of this role is hybrid, meaning it will be performed both from home and from a LinkedIn office on select days, as determined by the business needs of the team.
- Location: Mountain View, California
- Compensation & Benefits: Includes hourly pay rate, relocation support, hardware, and intern perks
- Timing: The 2026 session will run from May 26, 2026 – August 14, 2026
Who We're Looking For
Our candidates will have:
- Foundational programming knowledge (Python, Java, C++, Rust or similar object-oriented programming language)
- AI curiosity and a desire to deepen fluency with AI tools and emerging technologies
- Passion for building software at scale
- Historic participation in coding projects, software engineering coursework, hackathons, or coding clubs
- Growth mindset and openness to feedback
- Problem-solving skills and willingness to learn
Eligibility:
- Eligible to work in the United States
- Pursuing Bachelors degree in Computer Science (or related technical degrees) with an expected graduation date of December 2027 or later
- HackerRank Assessment: Complete a timed online coding assessment to demonstrate your programming fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and grasp of core CS concepts
- Recruiter Phone Screen: Chat with a recruiter to confirm eligibility, discuss your interests, and learn more about the program and next steps
- Behavioral & Technical Interview: Meet with LinkedIn engineers to showcase your core skills, practice coding in real time, and demonstrate how you approach problem-solving with AI-assisted tools
Applications for summer 2026 are now closed.
FAQs
Is First Play different from the traditional Software Engineering internship?
Yes. First Play is for students earlier in their software engineering journey, focused on hands-on learning and foundational skill development. The role is designed to help build skills needed to succeed in a traditional SWE internship.
Do I need prior internship experience?
No! We’re looking for curiosity, passion, and growth potential. Prior experience is welcome but not required.
What are the internship details?
The First Play internship runs for 12 weeks (May 26, 2026 – August 14, 2026) and is based in Mountain View, California. The work location of this role is hybrid, meaning it will be performed both from home and from a LinkedIn office on select days, as determined by the business needs of the team. The program includes hourly pay, relocation support, hardware, and full intern perks.
What kind of work will I do?
You’ll work on a team project, building practical skills and collaborating with LinkedIn engineers. First Play interns will have a cohort experience including events tailored to you.
Is First Play paid?
Yes, you will be paid hourly with relocation support and full intern benefits.
Can I apply to both First Play and the Software Engineering Internship?
No. Candidates will only be considered for the program that matches their graduation date eligibility requirements.
Where is the internship located?
First Play interns will be based in Mountain View, California.
Will First Play interns be considered for future opportunities?
Absolutely. First Play is a steppingstone designed to build skills for other internship and full-time roles at LinkedIn.
What does the term “First Play” mean?
LinkedIn helps connect talent to opportunities by helping them find their “next play” - the best opportunity for them at whatever step they are at in their career. We also know that a professional’s first opportunity can help jumpstart learning and open doors. That’s where First Play comes in.