Sr Architect

“We create happiness.” That’s our motto at Disney Parks Experiences and Products. At Disney, you’ll help inspire magic by enabling our teams to push the limits of entertainment and create innovative built environments. You will collaborate to develop ideas/thoughts into physical reality! Architecture & Facilities Engineering (A&FE) is looking for a Senior Architect to support the development and sustainment of projects we support throughout the Disneyland Resort. Our department supports a wide range of project types including Attractions, Maintenance, Foods, Merchandise, and Entertainment. Projects range from minor renovations to new facilities. You will also support immediate response efforts with reactionary projects.

The objective of this position is to act as the Architectural Owner’s Representative with technical expertise for architectural issues, design management of in-house and outside resources, code compliance, Disney design standards, documentation, specifications, and life cycle cost analysis for best value.

This role also involves close collaboration with other engineering disciplines and multiple Disney project teams including FAM, WDI, Entertainment, and Operations.

You will report to the Architecture Team Lead.

What You Will Do

• In this collaborative role, you will act as Owner’s Representative on projects from concept through construction at the Disneyland Resort.

• Project types will include shops, rides, hotels, shows, maintenance facilities, and nearly any built facility and area development found on our property.

• Manage the design and development of contract documents of projects with in-house and outside resources to meet project scopes, schedules and budgets.

• Develop concepts and RFPs (Request for Proposals).

• Attend, participate, and problem solve during site visits from concept through construction.

• Review drawings and specifications and ensure that all projects are designed and executed to applicable codes and statutes.

• Work with stakeholders to provide architectural resources, both technical and aesthetic, to develop project scope including design, planning and code compliance for estimation and feasibility.

• Resolve design issues creatively and thoroughly coordinating design with other disciplines.

• You must also be able to provide guidance and concise decision matrices to support executive decisions.

• Partner with internal teams to develop, maintain, communicate, and enforce Walt Disney Company design guidelines, standards, master specifications, and details.

• As the owner's representative, you'll review with a focus on constructability, efficiency, and long-term maintainability.

• Liaison with City officials and external agencies to ensure project scope and implementation is coordinated and compliant with external requirements.

What We Look For

• Professional design experience in a wide range of project types and construction types.

• Demonstrate familiarity with all phases of design and construction practices and standards.

• Construction Administration experience including site observation visits and review of RFIs and Submittals.

• Direct experience in the preparation of architectural contract drawings and specifications.

• Knowledge and experience with creating code analysis summaries including life safety plans.

• Collaborate and endeavor in a team environment to guarantee a successful product.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office Suite is required.

• Extensive knowledge of the California Building Code, health codes, CalOSHA, and the American with Disabilities Act.

• Experience developing custom details to support unique facility design conditions.

• Demonstrate leadership, team building skills, and mentoring young professionals.

• Strong problem solving/analytical skills and time management/organizational skills.

• Strong written, verbal, and graphical communication skills with the ability to present complex analyses and issues to all levels of executive management.

• Demonstrate the ability to respond effectively to dynamic situations and personalities.

• Must be capable of working independently on programs and projects but must have the maturity to seek guidance/approval and communicate as appropriate.

• Ability to direct and motivate work efforts of others and handle stressful situations.

• Ability to work well under pressure, prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously, often against tight deadlines.

Required Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s of Architecture or Master's of Architecture from an NAAB accredited school.

• Minimum of 8-10 years professional experience working.

• Architectural License in the State of California is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master Planning Experience.

• Experience with Conditional Use Permits (CP) with AHJ.

• Experience with Request for Modification (RFM) with AHJ.

Additional Information

Benefits and Perks: 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 location is $101,930.00 - $136,730.00 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.  

About The Walt Disney Company

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. You will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Disney fosters a culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, create the best stories, and be relevant in a changing world.