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Special Effects Designer Principal

Disney Parks and Resorts
Los Angeles, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 2/23/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/19/2025

Job Summary : Walt Disney Imagineering 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 - from concept initiation through installation and commissioning - of all Disney Resorts, theme parks and attractions, real estate developments, regional entertainment venues, and new media projects.About the Role & TeamThe Show Systems team helps to dream and build many of the magical moments that our guests enjoy! Our team is responsible for delivering world-class Audio-Animatronic figures, show action equipment and special effects through their full lifecycle. We partner with various teams to help deliver quality products and our processes and tools help to take us from concept design to production and installation.We are seeking a highly skilled and creative designer to join our Special Effects team. As the Special Effects Designer Principal, you will be responsible for applying the newest technologies and innovations in special effects to create immersive environments for Theme Park attractions, Cruise lines, Resorts and Shows.The Special Effects Designer, Principal will report to the Special Effects Designer, Manager.You Will : Collaborate with Creative Directors, Production Designers and Producers to develop special effects concepts that align with the project's vision and requirements.Manage multi-million-dollar Special Effects projects.Partner with Project Managers to maintain schedules and resources.Work with Facilities and Architectural teams to provide facility / schematic inputs on Special Effects requirements.Communicate effectively with project teams to resolve needs, status, and improvements.Advise and lead direct and indirect staff, as well as work with vendors and consultants.Maintain a strong emphasis on safety throughout the design and implementation of practical effects and ensure all Disney standards and requirements are met.Support / mentor team members.May be asked to travel worldwide, as required.Required Experience : 10 or more years of proven experience focused on Special Effects Design and Integration.Experience leading Special Effects teams on "E" ticket attractions and cruise ships from Blue Sky through Project delivery, including estimating, budgeting, scheduling, resource planning, mockups, design, installation, and project turnover.Strong artistic and creative skills, with the ability to translate concepts into practical effects.Industry-leading skills in special effects techniques, materials, and equipment.Ability to lead and encourage a team effectively.Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.Attention to detail and a dedication to safety.Successful leader / contributor on Special Effects projects with a proven track record of safety, reliability, and sustainability.Large, diversified knowledge base in Special Effects including Projection, Lighting, Animation, Show Control, and Practical Special Effects.Knowledge of sophisticated electrical systems that operate SPFX elements.Preferred Qualifications : Solidworks and AutoCAD design experience.Experience in Industrial design and manufacturing with special effects and projection system design experience.Theatrical experience.Education : Preferred education, but not required, B.A., B.S. in Engineering or Design equivalent desired.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.The hiring range for this position in California is $124,900.00-$167,500.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and 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.About Walt Disney Imagineering : Founded in 1952 as WED Enterprises to design and build the world's first theme park - Disneyland - Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) is where imagination and creativity combine with cutting-edge technology to create unforgettable experiences. WDI is the creative force that imagines, designs and builds all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions and cruise ships worldwide. Imagineering's unique strength comes from its diverse global team of creative and technical professionals, who build on Disney's legacy of storytelling to pioneer new forms of entertainment. The Imagineers who practice this unique blend of art and science work in more than 100 disciplines to shepherd an idea all the way from "blue sky" concept phase to opening day.About The Walt Disney Company : The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments : Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney's stories, characters, and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.This position is with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., which is part of a business we call Walt Disney Imagineering.Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.#J-18808-Ljbffr

Salary : $124,900 - $167,500

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