Show Mechanical Engineer (Project Hire)

Job Posting Title: Show Mechanical Engineer (Project Hire) Req ID: 10130972 Job Description: 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. The Show Systems team helps to dream and create many of the magical moments that our guests enjoy. Our team is responsible for delivering extraordinary 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. Mechanical engineers within the department drive the design and development of animatronic figures and show action equipment, where durability, long life, reliability, and safety are a must. We are responsible for various engineering tasks: concepts, mockups, design, hazard analysis, FMEA & system safety, FEA, design reviews, documentation, and the overall functionality to fulfill the creative intent. You will support different phases of the engineering process which includes design from concept development through final design, production, test, installation, and commissioning for a variety of theme park attractions. The Show Mechanical Engineer will report to the Show Mechanical Engineering Manager.

What You Will Do

• Design and prototype figure sub-systems in step with actuation design and overall prototype testing goals
• Design animated figure prototype and test equipment in SolidWorks and prepare detailed drawings
• Perform calculations for machine designs including development of loads, stress analysis (FEA), and motor and component sizing.
• Perform electro-mechanical sub-system testing to verify system against requirements
• Be responsible Individual for sub-system vendor/contractor management and oversight
• Be responsible for SolidWorks models, drawing development, and release
• Provide production support for prototype animated figures

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Knowledge of animated figure design, electro-mechanical components, manufacturing processes and quality control processes
• Understanding of tolerances, core machine design principles
• Ability to proactively solve problems, adjust scope, and update management
• Working knowledge of manufacturing and quality control processes
• Strong knowledge of engineering design tools e.g. SolidWorks, ANSYS, MATLAB,
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with internal and external entities
• Excellent documentation skills
• Willingness to travel both domestic and international as required
• Availability to work various shifts commensurate with global project requirements (typically 8am – 5 pm)
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

• Familiarity with mechanical/electrical system modeling and control in robotics applications
• Experience with Matlab/Simulink, FEA (Ansys, Nastran, etc.), PLM systems
• Themed Entertainment experience

Education

• B.S in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Engineering Mechanics.
• Masters in Engineering or MBA 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 https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits. The hiring range for this position in California is $103,500.00-$138,800.00 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. Job Posting Segment: WDI Creative Development Job Posting Primary Business: Show Systems (WDI) Primary Job Posting Category: Show Mechanical Engineering Employment Type: Full time Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code: Glendale, CA, USA Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code: USA - FL - 1120 Celebration Blvd Date Posted: 2025-09-03 Apply tot his job Apply To this Job