Manager, Media Technology

At Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS) we believe that creativity inspires technology, and technology inspires creativity. The Platform and Infrastructure group within the Technology department is responsible for the design, implementation, and support of the critical infrastructure behind the content our studio creates. We are looking for a manager to join the team in these efforts.

The Manager, Media Technology role will lead the Media Engineering team, which is made up of engineers, systems administrators and support representatives that partner with production stakeholders to support critical systems required for content creation at the Studio. Managers are expected to demonstrate effective leadership, build strong relationships, and have a strong understanding of the domains they oversee. They must build partnerships with technical and non-technical users, understand their needs, and deliver relevant, sustainable solutions that align with initiatives for both our Burbank and Vancouver studio locations.

Our studio thrives from a wide variety of technical backgrounds and experiences; therefore, we encourage applicants to apply even if they do not match all requirements listed below. Bring your unique talents and ideas to our team, and join Disney’s creative legacy

The Media Engineering team at WDAS has an exciting variety of responsibilities. These include:

• Implementation and support of general audio-visual (AV) systems throughout the Studio facilities, including conference rooms, teaming/huddle areas, training rooms, AV carts, special events spaces, etc

• Installation and support of video conferencing technology & solutions for the Studio, enabling a hybrid workforce to collaborate with their coworkers and contribute successfully

• Design and support of specialized content review systems used for animation, including Digital Cinema theaters, customized storyboarding rooms, capture stage, etc.

• Design and support of post-production systems, including audio mix stages, vocal recording room, color grading & DI suite & Avid editorial

• Development and support of the color pipeline for all studio productions and content deliverables, including support for HDR content creation and review

• Support and development of custom secure streaming technologies used for content review and dailies

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the Media Engineering team, providing technical guidance for various efforts, oversight of projects, and personnel management of team members.

• Lead team members to drive overall direction and create short- and long-term vision for the team’s areas of responsibilities.

• Keep track of all team projects, oversee delegation of efforts across different roles

• Provide mentoring to systems engineers, systems administrators and support roles on the team, ensuring a path of growth for each team member.

• Achieve and maintain a working high-level knowledge of the technology and technical workflows used at the Studio.

• Work with other technology and Studio leaders to create and execute a holistic strategy for Media technology.

• Foster relationships with neighboring technology groups, as well as key stakeholders, ensuring successful collaboration when needed.

• Oversee creation of relevant technology budgets each year, covering all major initiatives, renewal of equipment, expansion, and disposition.

• Work with the team to keep track of all service contracts, maintenance schedules and other important timelines for equipment and services.

• Manage and maintain relationships with 3rd party vendors, consultants and industry representatives.

Requirements:

• Degree in broadcast engineering, multimedia technology, film production or related technical field, or equivalent work experience.

• Proven history of experience working in a media or post-production environment

• Advanced knowledge of professional audio-visual (AV) technologies, video conference technologies, proven level of experience working with and supporting both

• Strong understanding of common post-production technologies and their related workflows, such as Avid/Pro Tools, Digital Cinema, critical audio listening environments & acoustics, DI (digital intermediate) workflows, etc

• Familiarity with modern streaming technologies

• Proven experience managing technical projects and/or teams with competing priorities

• Excellent communication skills

Preferred:

• Prior experience working in a production environment

• Prior experience working as a post-production or AV systems engineer

• Prior experience in working in a tech support role or managing a tech support team

• Prior experience working in a post-production or editorial creative or supporting role, direct experience working with editorial & post software and systems

• Familiarity with complex facility buildout and construction project management and coordination

• Familiarity with common network architecture & security concepts

The hiring range for this position in California is $136,100.00-$182,400.00 per year based on a 40 hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. 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.