Software Engineer

About The Company

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.

About The Role

Walt Disney Imagineering is seeking a highly experienced Ride Control Software Engineer Principal (Design Assurance) to join our Ride Engineering Studio. This role is pivotal in ensuring the safety, reliability, and excellence of our ride control software systems across various innovative attractions. The successful candidate will work within a collaborative environment, partnering with multidisciplinary teams to oversee design, analysis, and verification activities that uphold the highest standards of safety and quality. This position offers an exciting opportunity to influence the development of world-class amusement rides and immersive experiences that delight millions of guests globally.

The role reports directly to the Executive, Ride Controls Software Engineering, and can be based in Glendale, California, or Orlando, Florida. This is a full-time position dedicated to advancing Disney’s commitment to safety, innovation, and excellence in ride engineering.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess at least 15 years of extensive experience in ride control software design, engineering, installation, and commissioning. A strong proficiency in fail-safe and safety-related control system design is essential, along with comprehensive knowledge of ride control software architectures. Candidates should have experience with requirements development, test planning, and execution, demonstrating a solid understanding of communication protocols such as TCP/IP, CAN, serial, ProfiNET, Ethernet/IP, and EtherCAT.

Expertise in automated control software design applying functional safety concepts and standards is required, including familiarity with IEC 61508, IEC 62061, and ISO 13849. The candidate should have excellent technical documentation skills and the ability to communicate complex concepts effectively. Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally for periods ranging from one week to three months are also necessary. A bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited university is mandatory.

Responsibilities

• Conduct design assurance activities in alignment with industry standards and best practices, collaborating with ride engineering teams and industry organizations involved in ride safety and design.
• Stay current with evolving company and industry standards, participating actively in development and refinement processes.
• Lead and improve engineering processes to meet project delivery timelines and design assurance objectives.
• Perform comprehensive design reviews, testing, and validation of ride software designs, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Review ride software designs for adherence to industry and company standards, providing critical feedback and recommendations.
• Assess the quality and adequacy of designs to meet project requirements and safety criteria.
• Advise project teams on optimal control software designs, safety analysis methods, testing approaches, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Mentor and train ride control engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
• Develop and deliver internal training sessions on Disney’s requirements and best practices for ride control software design.
• Promote and advocate for processes, standards, and practices that ensure the production of high-quality, safe ride control systems.
• Assist and guide design engineers in resolving technical challenges related to standards, methodologies, and safety considerations.
• Support the development of innovative solutions that push technological boundaries while maintaining safety and reliability.

Benefits

Disney offers a comprehensive rewards package designed to support your personal and professional growth. Benefits include competitive health and savings plans, educational opportunities, and unique perks that only Disney can provide. Employees gain access to wellness programs, retirement savings plans, and special discounts on Disney products and experiences. Additionally, Disney promotes a healthy work-life balance through flexible work arrangements and supportive workplace policies. The company invests in its employees’ development through training, mentorship, and leadership programs, fostering an environment where innovation and excellence thrive.

Equal Opportunity

Walt Disney Imagineering is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating a workplace that respects and values individual differences. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We believe that a diverse workforce enhances our creativity and innovation, enabling us to deliver extraordinary experiences to our guests worldwide.