Principal Show Control Hardware Engineer

Job Summary:

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force that imagines, designs, and brings to life all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. Working across a spectrum of disciplines that range from creative and conceptual to scientific and technical, Imagineers blend an innovative mixture of storytelling, art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences, memorable destinations, and innovative entertainment for families around the globe.

Nearly every project at Walt Disney Imagineering includes a first-of-its-kind. Innovation is in our DNA, and Imagineers constantly push the boundaries of technology and invent new goals as well as the solutions to achieve them. As Imagineers, one of our greatest rewards is knowing that the experiences and environments we create inspire others. The diversity of expertise at Imagineering makes us uniquely capable of influencing positive change in our communities and around the world. And knowing that we have helped make a difference is incredibly fulfilling and inspiring for all of us.

Within the Show Systems studio is where we produce the magic. Our processes and tool sets take us from concept design or mock ups to full production, assembly and installation. A Principal show control hardware engineer is responsible for delivering control systems that integrate the entire show attraction and subsystems including animatronic figures, show elements. You will work as part of the team creating world-class attractions. Thinking outside of the box and creative problem solving is a must. We’re looking for professionals who are thirsty for diverse experiences, who are eager to learn and who are confident they can uphold the Disney quality that our quests expect. If this sounds like you, please apply today!

You will report into the Senior Manager, Show Control Hardware Engineering.

What You Will Do

• Possess the skills necessary to execute the design of electrical and electronic systems and subsystems in accordance with accepted engineering practices, published codes, and regulations
• Lead the design for show control from blue sky, through detailed design, production, installation, T&A, and opening to guests
• Lead and mentor other engineers within team
• Attend and lead design and peer reviews
• Participate in all aspects of system design and testing
• Produce engineering drawings based on Disney standards
• Track personal and team progress on assignments comparing budget/schedule to actuals.
• Extensive troubleshooting knowledge and skillset
• Design management skills in a fast paced creative environment

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 10 or more years of relevant experience
• Leadership experience in your engineering discipline
• Understanding of electrical / electronic principles
• Understanding of computer, power, and communications theory
• Understanding of techniques for fault finding electrical / electronic / control systems
• Knowledge of general physics and mathematics
• Schematic and assembly drawing of control systems
• Scheduling methods / experience
• Estimating methods / experience
• Ability to present technical concepts in manner understandable by non-technical people
• Creative translator - clean sheet design
• System integration
• Field integration (test & adjust)
• Engineering analysis & simulation
• Engineering specifications & requirements
• Control systems design and troubleshooting
• AutoCAD (or similar electrical design package)
• Prototype design
• Motor technology
• Understanding of servo control / PID loops
• Knowledge of relevant UL / NEC / ASTM / ISO / IEC

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Disney show control system architecture
• Knowledge of PLC programming
• Understanding of mechanical and software systems

Education

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent degree/experience) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering
• Advanced degree and professional registration are preferred

Additional Information

Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at

The hiring range for this position in California is $152,200.00-$204,100.00 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.