Principal Systems Engineer-Design Assurance, Mechanical Systems

Position Overview

“We create happiness.” At Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, you’ll help make that magic by pushing the limits and building the never-before-seen. As the Principal Systems Engineer – Design Assurance within Disneyland Resort's Global Engineering and Technology (GE&T) division, you will ensure the safety of Guests and Cast through technical oversight, training, mentorship, and the application of best engineering practices. Reporting to the Director of Global Engineering & Technology in Anaheim, CA, you will collaborate across a team of approximately 150 to drive technical excellence and global consistency.

Key Responsibilities

• Work with the Mechanical Systems leadership team and Design Assurance Cast, both domestically and internationally, to advocate for the application of great engineering practices in safety, risk reduction, requirements development, hazard & safety analysis, design & engineering analysis, installation, testing, maintainability, and reliability.
• Participate throughout the entire engineering review process – from feasibility studies and concept reviews to final development and implementation strategy discussions – while partnering with leadership to provide technical oversight.
• Utilize your extensive expertise to mentor and coach team members and project teams, ensuring the delivery of innovative designs that exceed expectations in safety, quality, compliance, performance, sustainability, and cost.
• Assess routine and sustaining work content through strategic review and analysis to reduce risk and facilitate successful outcomes.
• Arbitrate and resolve technical issues and differences of professional opinion.
• Aid in the development, interpretation, and application of Disney and relevant industry standards within team deliverables.
• Support the safety bulletin process and complete related tasks and special projects as needed by the Director of Engineering.
• Assist with forensic investigations to inform engineering strategies, ensure global consistency, and enhance communication.
• Serve as a technical liaison, providing insights and guidance to senior management.
• Remain informed of industry advancements, technological innovations, and notable incidents, and communicate updates to Cast and leadership teams.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 15+ years’ experience in technical roles focused on the design, troubleshooting, and maintenance of complex, safety-related mechanical systems.
• Extensive experience in Themed Entertainment, specifically in the design and sustainment of Ride Systems.
• Advanced engineering knowledge encompassing statics, dynamics, kinematics, stress/strain/fatigue.
• Expertise in machine design, weldments, power train, and materials.
• Proficiency with engineering tools such as Solid Modeling, FEA, engineering calculation software, and programming/modeling software (e.g., MatLab).
• Comprehensive knowledge of themed entertainment standards (e.g., ASTM F24, Cal OSHA 6.2…) and industrial standards (e.g., ASME, SAE-AMS, AWS, ANSI).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to identify priority system-level risks and resolve technical conflicts.
• Ability to interpret integrated drawing packages including detailed part-to-assembly drawings and system-level documents.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Professional Engineering License in Mechanical Engineering.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with gear train, conveyor, and transportation systems.
• Hands-on experience with pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
• Hands-on experience with water systems including open channel flow.
• Experience with equipment fabrication, assembly, installation, and testing.
• Experience with prototype, development, and/or innovative product design.
• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Benefits & Perks

• Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life, including 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.