How to Get an Engineering Internship at Shopify: A Complete Guide

The complete guide to getting an internship at Shopify. Interns work on real projects, solve hard problems, and gain practical feedback along the way.

Nathaniel Quarrie
11 min readintermediate
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Overview

This article serves as a comprehensive guide for aspiring engineers looking to secure an internship at Shopify. It outlines the application process, key skills needed, and insights from former interns about their experiences and the value of internships in developing real-world engineering skills.

What You'll Learn

1

How to apply for an engineering internship at Shopify

2

Why collaboration and communication are essential skills for engineering interns

3

How to prepare for the skills challenge and interview process

4

When to demonstrate accountability in your work as an intern

Key Questions Answered

What is the application process for an engineering internship at Shopify?
The application process involves reviewing available opportunities, submitting an online application with your resume and cover letter, preparing for a skills challenge, and going through a two-phase interview process. This structured approach helps candidates showcase their skills and fit for the role.
What skills are important for engineering interns at Shopify?
Key skills for engineering interns at Shopify include collaboration, lifelong learning, curiosity, GitHub experience, remote work experience, communication, interviewing, and accountability. These skills are essential for effective teamwork and personal growth in a fast-paced engineering environment.
How can interns prepare for the skills challenge at Shopify?
Interns can prepare for the skills challenge by showcasing personal projects on platforms like GitHub, practicing sample intern challenges provided by Shopify, and demonstrating their technical skills relevant to the internship role. This preparation is crucial for standing out during the application process.
What do former interns say about their experience at Shopify?
Former interns report high satisfaction with the program, with 98% recommending it to friends. They highlight the opportunity to work on real projects, collaborate with talented individuals globally, and receive valuable feedback, which significantly contributes to their career development.

Key Statistics & Figures

Internship opportunity drop since the pandemic
52%
This statistic highlights the challenging landscape for internships due to the pandemic, emphasizing the importance of standing out in a competitive market.
Intern satisfaction rate
98%
This high satisfaction rate indicates the positive experiences of interns at Shopify, suggesting a supportive and impactful internship program.

Key Actionable Insights

1
Engage in collaborative projects to enhance your teamwork skills, which are crucial for success in engineering roles.
Collaboration is emphasized as a key skill for interns at Shopify. Working effectively in teams not only improves project outcomes but also prepares you for real-world engineering environments.
2
Prepare a portfolio of your past projects to showcase your skills and experiences during the application process.
Having a well-curated portfolio can significantly enhance your application. It allows you to demonstrate your capabilities and interests, making you a more attractive candidate.
3
Practice your interviewing skills to improve your chances of success in the competitive internship selection process.
Interviewing is a skill that can be developed through practice. Understanding the interview structure at Shopify can help you present your experiences effectively.

Common Pitfalls

1
Failing to demonstrate curiosity can hinder your internship application.
Curiosity is a key trait that hiring managers look for in interns. To avoid this pitfall, actively engage in learning and exploring new technologies, which can set you apart from other candidates.