Special Effects Designer Sr (PH)

The Walt Disney Company•Anaheim, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force behind Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. Imagineers combine storytelling, art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences. The Special Effects Designer is responsible for developing and implementing practical and visual special effects systems, including fire, lighting, projection, water, air, gas, and illusion-based technologies. This role involves collaboration across creative and technical disciplines to deliver immersive show environments through design, fabrication, installation, and commissioning. This is a Project Hire position, meaning there is no guarantee of permanent placement, and it is a full-time role.

Requirements

3+ years of experience in themed entertainment special effects or a related technical field.
Knowledge of a wide range of special effects systems including fire, projection, water, air, gas, and visual effects technologies.
Ability to support multiple projects and manage competing priorities with guidance.
Ability to work collaboratively with skilled craftspeople, creative teams, and technical disciplines.
Strong communication skills and ability to coordinate across project teams.
Experience supporting installation, testing, and system integration activities.
Ability to travel domestically and/or internationally required.

Nice To Haves

Experience in mockup construction or prototype fabrication of special effects systems.
Theatrical training and knowledge of stagecraft, illusions, or show systems.
Experience mentoring or guiding junior team members.
Laser safety, flame safety, or pyrotechnic safety training desirable.
CAD, Sketchup, SolidWorks 3D modeling.
Familiarity with Disney theme park special effects systems and processes.

Responsibilities

Support multiple attractions in the development, design, and implementation of practical special effects systems.
Lead or support field installation activities, including supervision of contractors and vendors.
Provide maintenance and operations training and post-opening support for installed effects systems.
Coordinate with creative, technical, and project management teams to ensure design intent is achieved.
Participate in mockup construction and prototype fabrication for special effects applications.
Troubleshoot and resolve technical challenges related to installation and system performance.
Assist in integrating special effects systems into overall show and facility designs.
Contribute to documentation and production processes throughout the project lifecycle.