Senior Illusion Maker, Surface Development

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.

Illusion Makers combine creative vision with advanced technical expertise to craft, assemble, and integrate mechanical and electrical systems, bringing imaginative concepts to life. By collaborating closely with engineering teams, these professionals support the design and installation of mock-ups and prototypes for new or renovated attractions at various locations. This role demands deep expertise in mechanical and/or electrical trades, hands-on proficiency, and a talent for both system design and integration.

This role will report to the Illusion Production Manager.

This is a Full Time position.

What You Will Do

• Digital design of 3D printed shells for complicated Audio Animatronic figures
• Digital design of 3D printed tooling for complicated Audio Animatronic figure parts
• Fabrication, assembly and clean-up of 3D printed, fiberglass, cast, vacuum form, and silicone skins and parts.
• Troubleshoot, test, evaluate and modify figure shells, parts, skins and tooling as needed
• Design and fabricate plastic parts for longevity and with maintenance in mind
• Problem solve, mock-up and test solutions for complex plastic part issues
• Document and archive shell, skin and tooling digital files per project requirements
• Partner with the Figure Finishing, Mechanical and Electrical teams to ensure that the costumes are part of the overall integrated figure system
• Collaborate with the WDI Creative teams (including with our I.P. partners at Walt Disney Animation Studio, Pixar, Lucasfilm and Marvel) to develop the figure shells and skins and to ensure that they meet the creative intent and overall look of the show
• Collaborate with Dimensional Design’s digital and physical sculptors to ensure shell clearances, thickness, shapes, offsets, etc., are all considered during the sculpt and model development phase
• Develop tooling, shell and skin estimates, along with Surface Development design and production schedules
• Work with vendors and suppliers to ensure quality and timely deliveries
• Willingness to travel (including internationally) as required
• Train our park maintenance partners in the installation, removal, handling and care of the Audio Animatronic figure shells, skins, props, etc.
• Ability to develop and author standards and guidelines related to Surface Development products and deliverables

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Experience with and proficiency in Solidworks
• Understanding of Design X, Magics and Rhino
• 5+ years of experience in Audio Animatronic figure tooling, shell and skin design and fabrication
• Strong knowledge plastic and skin material properties
• Understanding of how to read and evaluate material Safety Data Sheets and Technical Data Sheets
• 3D printing experience and knowledge of processes, materials, etc.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with other disciplines
• Strong understanding of Audio Animatronic figures and the figure production pipeline
• Knowledge and experience operating and maintaining 3D printers
• Knowledge and experience with 3D printed part fabrication
• Knowledge of fabrication matrix and epoxy molds (tooling)

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

Preferred Education

• B.S degree or completion of trade school

Additional Information:

• 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.

The base salary for this position in California is $87,100.00-$116,800.00 based on a 40 hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. 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.