Ride Control Systems Engineer

Walt Disney Imagineering is the master planning, creative development, design, engineering, production, project management, and research & development arm of The Walt Disney Company. Its talented corps of Imagineers is responsible for the creation - from concept through installation - of all Disney Resorts, theme parks, and attractions. Disney Imagineers are uniquely talented individuals that bring together the best aspects of creativity, innovation, and passion. At Ride Engineering, it is our responsibility to move people through our stories in magical ways that bring these experiences to life! Ride Engineers bring optimism and solutions to design challenges that often seem impossible, and partner with diverse creative talent to define and build one of a kind experiences that bring fun and joy to millions of people all around the world. We Create To Inspire!

Ride Control Systems Engineers work within WDI’s Ride Studio on one or more project teams, and are responsible for ride control engineering activities for ride systems.  These engineering activities cover all aspects of ride control system design and implementation, integrating mechanical, electrical, and software systems, from concept to commissioning, for a wide variety of innovative ride platforms that include unique requirements for novel rider experiences, high reliability, and safety.  RCS Engineers perform in a highly collaborative environment on diverse teams, and are comfortable in environments where scope and requirements change frequently. 

Picture yourself being amongst the “first riders” of the ride you just helped design, build, and commission!

You Will / Responsibilities:

• Work on a team to conceive, design, & deliver control systems for a wide variety of complex and innovative ride systems and related equipment.
• Conduct systems engineering for ride control systems.
• Define system use cases and user needs.
• Develop and capture requirements and functional specifications in documents, drawings, and models.
• Perform hazard assessments, and failure modes & effects analysis.
• Ensure compliance with control system safety standards.
• Perform engineering design and analysis for ride control systems.
• Develop control strategies and algorithms.
• Research new products, technologies, and methodologies.
• Design, model, and analyze electrical, data communication, and dynamic systems.
• Define control system and network architectures including network communications.
• Collaborate with other design and engineering professionals to implement ride control systems.
• Develop implementation plans and budgets.
• Develop verification and validation strategies.
• Develop and implement mock-ups and prototypes for proof-of concept efforts.
• Develop test requirements and documents, and lead testing efforts.

Basic Qualifications/ You Will Have

• 4+ years of experience with design, engineering, installation, and commissioning of control systems for electromechanical systems
• Experienced in safety-related system design, including defensive design techniques, and defensive programming
• Knowledge of control processors, components, and communication networks used in multi-processing real-time industrial and/or embedded applications
• Proficient in industrial control system installation, integration and commissioning
• Proficient in Rockwell and/or Beckhoff automation systems architecture and components
• Understanding of communication technologies/protocols: TCP/IP, CAN, serial, ProfiNET, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT
• Experience with requirements management, verification planning, test plan/procedures, and test execution
• Knowledge and familiarity with functional safety standards, including IEC 61508, IEC 62061, ISO 13849
• Knowledge and familiarity with amusement and automation industry standards, including ASTM F2291, and UL508A
• Solid skills in technical document writing
• Proficient in developing and reading electrical schematics and one-line diagrams
• Ability to handle multiple complex efforts simultaneously, and manage tasks and priorities
• Ability to travel and work both domestically and internationally, for varying durations that could be over 1 year

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficient with engineering design tools, including AutoCAD, Matlab, Simulink, Solidworks
• Expertise in motor and motion control methods and components
• Demonstrated experience in contractor/vendor management and technical contract documents
• Electrical and troubleshooting skills (voltmeter, oscilloscope, etc.)
• Knowledge of pneumatic controls and devices
• Experience in broad application of control system theory (closed-loop control, MIMO systems, positioning and navigation)
• Experience with multitasking software platforms and design approaches
• Demonstrated knowledge of international amusement industry standards applicable in France, Hong Kong, or China

Required Education:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in an engineering field from an accredited university
• Some Physics Coursework (Motion Equations / Dynamics) required
• Some Computer Engineering Coursework highly preferred
• Some System Engineering coursework preferred
• Control Systems Engineering and/or Control Theory a plus

Additional Information

• Disability accommodation for employment applications
• The Walt Disney Company and its Affiliated Companies are Equal Employment Opportunity employers and welcome all job seekers including individuals with disabilities and veterans with disabilities. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to search for a job opening or apply for a position, email Candidate.Accommodations@Disney.com with your request. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or correspondence. We will only respond to those requests that are related to the accessibility of the online application system due to a disability.
• The Walt Disney Company is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.

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.

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