Principal Ride Control Hardware Engineer (Controls Automation)

Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10132824 Location Glendale, California, United States Business Walt Disney Imagineering Date posted Nov. 17, 2025

Job Summary:

About The Role & Team

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.

Ride Control Hardware Engineers work within Walt Disney Imagineering’s Ride Studio in a highly collaborative environment on diverse teams. Engineering activities cover all aspects of control system design and implementation, from concept to commissioning, for a wide variety of innovative ride platforms.

The Ride Control Hardware Engineer will report to the Ride Control Systems Engineering Executive.

This is a full time role.

What You Will Do:

Support programmable, electrical, and electronic hardware scope to design and deliver control systems for complex, innovative ride systems.
Perform engineering design and analysis for ride systems, focusing on electrical control systems.
Develop control system and network architectures.
Design, model, and analyze electrical supply systems.
Research new products, technologies, and methodologies.
Lead a team of ride control engineers and collaborate with other professionals to develop ride control systems.
Develop control equipment requirements and specifications.
Develop and implement proof-of-concept mock-ups and prototypes.
Conduct hazard assessments and failure modes and effects analysis.
Manage vendors, contractors, and consultants developing and implementing ride control systems.
Define and oversee supplier and consultant design and delivery.
Ensure all delivery and performance requirements are satisfied.
Conduct factory acceptance tests and ride system installation.

Required Qualifications & Skills

10+ Years experience in the Engineering field as related to controlling electromechanical systems
Experienced in fail-safe and safety-related control system design
Extensive knowledge of control processors, components, and communication networks
Highly proficient in industrial control system installation, integration, and commissioning
Solid understanding of communication protocols: TCP/IP, CAN, serial, ProfiNET, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT
Extensive knowledge of electrical design standards and codes, including UL508a and NEC
Familiarity with amusement and automation industry standards, including ASTM F2291
Expertise in motor and motion control methods and components
Ability to travel domestically and internationally for 1-week to 3-year durations
Ability to handle multiple complex efforts simultaneously, coordinate team efforts, and manage tasks and priorities

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

Licensed professional engineer
Proficient with engineering design tools including AutoCAD, Matlab, Simulink, Solidworks, EPLAN
Proficient in Rockwell and Siemens automation systems architecture and components
Electrical and troubleshooting skills (voltmeter, oscilloscope, etc.)
Knowledge of international amusement industry standards applicable in France, Hong Kong, or China

Education

As a minimum a Bachelor of Science Degree in engineering, computer science, or related field from an accredited university, Electrical Engineering 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.

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The hiring range for this position in California is $151,900 to $246,700 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

Principal Ride Control Hardware Engineer (Controls Automation)

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