Manager-Technical Direction

About the Role & Team

Through innovative storytelling and a culture of collaboration, Disney Live Entertainment creates, produces, and delivers remarkable and engaging entertainment experiences. From the intimate to the spectacular, our work can be seen at Disney theme parks, resort hotels, cruise ships, and other locations worldwide! This diverse team – representing a wide variety of disciplines and talents from technical directors, writers, and lighting designers to choreographers, cosmetologists, and music producers – brings magical worlds to life through technical expertise, performance excellence, incomparable ingenuity, unparalleled spectacle… and a dash of pixie dust! 

The Manager, Technical Direction oversees Disney Live Entertainment’s Technical Direction Department, guiding the team to deliver and sustain the technical aspects of live shows, parades, and events across Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts. This role requires understanding design intent and ensuring successful project execution by organizing, budgeting, scheduling, and leading a team of Technical Directors through all project phases.

This is a full-time salaried role reporting to the Manager-Technical Production.

What You Will Do

• Provide leadership oversight and strategic guidance of all DLE sustainment projects during blue-sky; concept development; feasibility (develop and validate scope, schedule, and budget); design development; production (bid package, bid process, vendor selection, construction/fabrication, and acceptance testing); technical delivery (installation, programming, test & adjust, commissioning, rehearsal, and turnover); comprehensive final documentation; and sustainment criteria
• Direct Technical Directors in developing and executing plans for live shows, facility infrastructure, and ongoing project sustainment
• Balance project scope, staffing, and resources to best meet creative and technical goals, ensuring “right fit” and that the needs of the projects will be creatively satisfied
• Provide input on concept, feasibility, and design; review and approve technical budgets, schedules, and staffing plans
• Monitor department and project budgets, focusing on labor usage and reporting
• Ensure all projects comply with company standards and safety regulations, including Design Assurance and Hazard Assessment requirements
• Identify and implement new technologies and workflow improvements
• Liaise between Technical Directors and vendors to ensure Disney standards, compatibility, proper training, and accurate documentation
• Maintain consistency and quality in technical design documents and project deliverables.
• Coordinate with other disciplines and ensure compliance with safety and legal requirements (OSHA, ADA, permitting, etc.)
• Participate in research and development of new theatrical and entertainment technologies within the company
• Support the ongoing training of technical staff as needed
• Lead periodic reviews of existing shows to ensure they meet original creative intent and quality
• Stay current with industry trends and maintain up-to-date show documentation and contact databases

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in the entertainment industry, specifically in show development and/or live show operations
• Comprehensive knowledge of state-of-the-art technology and industry standards for a broad range of live show entertainment systems, including audio, video, broadcast, special effects, lighting, lasers, controls, scenery, automation, rigging, and facility infrastructure
• Demonstrated expertise in leadership, strategic planning, and partnership development
• Highly detail-oriented with exceptional organizational capabilities and the ability to prioritize objectives effectively
• Strong financial acumen with experience managing both capital and operating budgets
• Advanced troubleshooting, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, particularly in high-pressure situations
• Ability to support the creative process through effective collaboration with designers, directors, and producers
• Experience in contract negotiations with consultants to define project scope and value
• Proven background in facility design, engineering, and construction
• Track record of successfully delivering projects within established scope, schedule, and budget parameters
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate creative concepts
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, AutoCAD, and industry-specific software applications
• Willingness and flexibility to work varied hours, including nights, weekends, holidays, and occasional travel

Preferred Qualifications

• Excellent understanding of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, Epcot Building Codes, and all other applicable regulatory agencies
• Proven knowledge and proficiency in the following engineering disciplines: structural, mechanical, electrical, software, and safety
• Experience in live show development with The Walt Disney Company
• Working knowledge and understanding of the Walt Disney culture

Required Education

• College degree or equivalent professional experience with a focus in theatrical design, technical production, and/or project management

Additional Information

Benefits and Perks: 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.

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