Associate Show Mechanical Engineer (Project Hire/Internal Assignment)

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.

The Show Systems team helps to dream and create 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 disciplines to help deliver quality products and our processes and tools help to take us from concept design to production and installation.

You will report to Sr Mgr-Show Mechanical Engineering .

This is a Project Hire position without any guarantee of permanent placement.

What You Will Do:

Within the department, Mechanical Engineers 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, organic surface & mechanical part design, hazard analysis, FMEA & system safety, FEA, design reviews, documentation, and the overall functionality to fulfill the creative intent.

Mechanical Engineers package machine elements within complex organic forms leveraging areas such as tooling design, digital sculpting, mesh modeling, organic and complex surface modeling, materials science, and 3D printing. Additionally, they support various 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.  

As an Associate Mechanical Engineer, you will:

• Conduct Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to evaluate mechanical designs and ensure structural integrity.

• Develop and analyze Rigid Body Dynamic (RBD) models for animated figures to optimize their movement and performance.

• Perform Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify potential issues in mechanical designs and recommend improvements.

• Provide engineering support during production for animated figures and show action equipment, troubleshooting and resolving technical challenges as they arise.

• Assist with testing and commissioning of animated figures and show action equipment, ensuring all systems operate according to design specifications.

• Prepare detailed engineering drawings and comprehensive reports to document design processes and outcomes.

• Use 3D design software to create and communicate innovative design concepts, demonstrating creativity and technical proficiency.

• Collaborate with team members to ensure animatronic figures meet both functional requirements and creative vision.

• Work closely with cross-functional partners—including costuming, figure finishing, electrical, show programming, animation, creative, and show set teams—to achieve project goals.

• Stay up to date on manufacturing best practices and monitor technological advancements and industry trends to enhance engineering solutions.

Required Qualifications & Skills:

• Strong foundation in engineering design principles and proficiency with relevant design and modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Navisworks, BIM 360, ANSYS, MATLAB, Zbrush, Rhino, Fusion360, Geomagic Design X)

• Demonstrated creative problem-solving and interpersonal skills

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities independently

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as required for global projects

• Eligibility to obtain a Professional Engineer License

Preferred Qualifications & Skills:

• Prior Disney experience

• 1-year relevant experience or master’s degree

• EIT/FE

Education:

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Engineering Mechanics required.

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Engineering Management preferred.

The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $95,500.00 to $128,000.00 per year based on a 40-hour work week. The number of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay offered will consider 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, depending on the level and position offered.