Vice President, Architecture and Engineering – Universal Creative

Universal Orlando•Orlando, FL

77d

About The Position

At Universal Creative, we design, develop and deliver the most compelling entertainment experiences imaginable to drive growth for Universal Destinations & Experiences worldwide. Our innovative attractions, immersive theme parks and world-class resorts fuse art and technology to create new standards in the themed entertainment industry. Our Team Members are the driving force behind Universal Creative. With their diverse skills and forward-thinking ideas, our team pushes us beyond the boundaries of what’s possible to achieve the extraordinary. Together, we’re creating a Universe of fun, always ensuring the next thing we do is better than the last thing we did. JOB SUMMARY The Vice President, Architecture & Engineering (A&E) shapes the creation of world-class experiences that ignite the thrill of being fully alive. As the functional leader for A&E services, this executive provides strategic vision and expertise across design, engineering, sustainability, compliance, and delivery of immersive theme park venues, attractions, landscapes, back-of-house facilities, and new parks on a global scale. The role drives execution by advancing digital design innovation, establishing global standards, and deploying tools and systems that ensure quality, consistency, and efficiency. Leading the Universal Creative A&E Department, the Vice President champions organizational culture, mentors global teams, and fosters collaboration with portfolio and project leadership, divisional partners, and cross-divisional and Company key stakeholders.

Requirements

Master of Architecture, Engineering, or Construction strongly preferred; or equivalent, related experience.
Licensed Architect (NCARB certified)
12+ years of experience successfully managing and delivering complex, large-scale, and high-profile projects, preferably in the areas of resort development, attractions, themed experiences, and destinations.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic and creative environment
Ability to effectively present information to senior executive leadership.
Ability to influence decisions with a high degree of tact & diplomacy.
Ability to make critical decisions in complex, high-pressure situations to drive project success.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret A&E design and construction drawings/specifications, technical drawings/specifications, financial reports, schedules, and legal documents.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
Expertise in A&E procurement, permitting, compliance strategies, and government engagement.
Expertise with digital design platforms and Virtual Design & Construction workflows.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to earn trust and credibility.
Proven ability to work effectively with all levels of the organization and with a wide range of stakeholders, both individually and in groups.
Knowledge of identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to ensure project success.
Passionate and knowledgeable about the themed entertainment industry and committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Nice To Haves

Global experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Set and drive the global Architecture & Engineering (A&E) strategy, ensuring functional integration of facility design, ride/show engineering, and creative vision to deliver world-class guest experiences.
Provide functional leadership for a global team of A&E leaders, establishing standards and driving consistency, quality, and innovation across all projects and portfolios.
Develop, implement, and maintain A&E standards, methodologies, scopes of work, and digital platforms to streamline delivery, ensure compliance, and align with long-term strategic objectives.
Serve as a strategic partner and leader to portfolio and project teams globally, providing guidance on procurement, milestone execution, permitting, and government engagement.
Oversee quality control and risk management processes, ensuring designs meet cost parameters and projects are delivered on time, on budget, on brand, and on strategy.
Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
Performs other duties as assigned.