Principal Show Systems Engineer (Design Assurance)

Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) is the master planning, creative development, design, engineering, production, project management, and research and development arm of Disney’s Parks and Resorts business segment. Representing more than 150 disciplines, its talented teams of Imagineers are responsible for the creation of Disney resorts, theme parks and attractions, hotels, water parks, real estate developments, regional entertainment venues, cruise ships, and new media technology projects.

Within the Show Systems Studio, we bring magic to life. Our processes and tools transform concept designs or mock-ups into full-fledged production, assembly, and installation. Show Systems range from deploying AUDIO-ANIMATRONICS, Show Action Equipment, Overhead Rigging, Special Effects, Lighting, Projection and Illusions Integration.  

We seek professionals who are passionate about diverse experiences, eager to learn, and confident in upholding the Disney quality that our guests expect. If you think you have what it takes, please apply today!

About the Role & Team

The Principal Show Systems Engineer – Design Assurance reports to the Show Systems Studio Executive and plays a crucial role in ensuring that engineering designs for WDI Show Projects meet all applicable requirements, exceed stakeholder expectations, reduce risk, and provide exceptional value to The Walt Disney Company. The Design Assurance Representative (DAR) is responsible for providing technical guidance and mentoring during the design process, ensuring that engineering efforts produce the right products for the right needs. They play a role in ensuring our process (and safety processes) adherence, standards compliance, iteration and authoring and relevancy and core subject matter expertise in the selected field of practice.  

What You Will Do

• Provide independent technical oversight and mentorship to project design teams, individual engineers and Show Technical Project Managers (STPM).
• Review and approve critical engineering designs and products, ensuring safety, compliance with regulations, and adherence to good engineering practices and the Disney brand.
• Partner with engineering and management to evaluate and guide the strategic direction of design assurance activities and departmental technical growth opportunities.
• Assess the success of design reviews and suggest local modifications to improve engineering products.
• Serve as the Engineer in Responsible Charge for Projects.
• Participate in iterative reviews of the HA program.
• Partner with Park Operations, Maintenance, Safety and others for consistant interpretation of requirements.
• Occasionally represent WDI Show Studio with SRTs (Ride/Show, Facility, Entertainment)
• Participate in iteration of and updates to Company Standards.

 Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Fifteen (15) plus years of engineering in high-tech environments, industrial automation, robotics, or themed entertainment.
• Demonstrated background in Hazard Analysis, Failure Modes and Effects Analysis, and/or Functional Safety Assememnt process.
• Demonstrated knowledge in theme park operations, safety and quality engineering practices in theme park environments.
• Diverse knowledge of general show systems and controls, animatronics, mechanical systems (mechatronics), controls, robotics, and/or special effects/projection equipment.
• Strong background in mechanical engineering or systems-related disciplines.
• Strong background in mechanical structural analysis such as Finite Element Analysis and dynamics analysis such as Rigid Body Dynamics.
• Strong background in validation testing means and methods such as strain gauging or accelerometer based testing.
• Knowledge of safety, reliability, quality, efficiency, and human factors in design.
• Possess and keep current a professional engineering license in the state of Florida or California.
• Proven track record with coloberation with other Studios and Business Buits
• Ability to alter work schedule to support occasional cross over with Europe and Asia
• Ability to travel

Preferred Qualifications:

• P.E. License in the State of California
• Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Parks and Experiences or Themed Entertainment Experience

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent from an accredited engineering school.
• Advanced degree in engineering or engineering management is preferred

Additional Information

Benefits and Perks: Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health, dental and vision benefits; retirement savings; educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.

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The hiring range for this position in California is $137,200.00-$183,900.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.