Executive - AI Platform Engineering
Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10143457 Location Glendale, California, United States / Celebration, Florida, United States Business Walt Disney Imagineering Date posted Mar. 26, 2026Job Summary:
Walt Disney Imagineering's Technology Studio develops the software platforms and tools that power how Imagineers design and deliver world-class experiences. We are seeking an Executive, AI Platform Engineering to lead a transformative initiative: building the AI-first platform that will fundamentally change how Imagineering creates.
In this role, you will own two critical mandates. First, you will architect and deliver the AI platform that transforms Imagineering's design and delivery workflows—bringing modern AI capabilities directly into the hands of Imagineers. Second, you will lead the adoption of AI-powered developer infrastructure across WDI's software teams, radically improving engineering velocity and quality. You will inherit an existing engineering team while building out new capabilities, partnering closely with Disney Research and Advanced Development to bridge cutting-edge research with production-ready systems. The ideal candidate is a visionary builder who has scaled AI platforms before, brings an entrepreneurial mindset, and can rally teams around a new paradigm.
Position Responsibilities
Define and execute the vision and roadmap for WDI's AI-first software platform, transforming how Imagineers design and deliver experiences
Lead the implementation of AI-powered developer tools and infrastructure across WDI software teams
Translate emerging AI capabilities into production-ready platform features that accelerate creative and engineering workflows
Establish standards and best practices for AI-assisted development, improving engineering velocity and code quality
Evaluate and integrate AI coding assistants, automated testing, and intelligent CI/CD capabilities
Drive investment strategy and resource planning for AI platform initiatives
Inherit and grow a high-performing engineering organization, recruiting top talent to expand platform capabilities
Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and rapid iteration
Partner closely with Disney Research and Advanced Development to transition cutting-edge research into production systems
Collaborate with Product Management to align platform capabilities with Imagineering priorities and user needs
Engage with software development groups across WDI to drive adoption and gather feedback on AI infrastructure initiatives
Build relationships with external technology partners and vendors to accelerate platform development
Basic Qualifications
Minimum of 10+ years of experience in software engineering, platform development, or related technical fields
Proven track record of building and scaling AI/ML platforms or infrastructure
Experience leading and growing engineering teams, including hiring and developing technical talent
Strong technical expertise in AI/ML systems, cloud platforms, and modern software architecture
Demonstrated ability to translate research and emerging technologies into production-ready systems
Experience driving organizational change and technology adoption across multiple teams
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
Strong strategic thinking and ability to balance long-term vision with near-term execution
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or Artificial Intelligence
Experience in entertainment, media, or creative technology industries
Familiarity with AI-assisted developer tools and workflows
Background partnering with research organizations to productize emerging technologies
Required Education
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent
The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $228,700 to $306,700 per year. 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.
About Walt Disney Imagineering:
Founded in 1952 as WED Enterprises to design and build the world’s first theme park — Disneyland — Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) is where imagination and creativity combine with cutting-edge technology to create unforgettable experiences. WDI is the creative force that imagines, designs and builds all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions and cruise ships worldwide. Imagineering’s unique strength comes from its diverse global team of creative and technical professionals, who build on Disney’s legacy of storytelling to pioneer new forms of entertainment. The Imagineers who practice this unique blend of art and science work in more than 100 disciplines to shepherd an idea all the way from “blue sky” concept phase to opening day.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., which is part of a business we call Walt Disney Imagineering.
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.
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