Senior Manager, Illusion Production

WDI is the master planning, creative development, design, engineering, production, project management, and research and development arm of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products business segment. Representing more than 150 disciplines, its talented corps of Imagineers are responsible for the creation of Disney resorts, theme parks and attractions, hotels, water parks, real estate developments, regional entertainment venues, cruise ships and new media technology projects worldwide which includes other Disney Intellectual Property such as Marvel, Pixar and Lucasfilm.

About the Role & Team

Within the Show Systems studio, we bring magic to life. Our processes and tools transform concept designs or mock-ups into full-fledged production, assembly, and installation. Our show mechanical engineering and production teams are responsible for delivering our world-class Audio-Animatronic figures, show action equipment, and mechanical integration of show elements. They work through design, engineering, simulation, production support, and installation, ensuring that each step aligns with the project's goals and budget.

We seek professionals who are passionate about diverse experiences, eager to learn, and confident in upholding the Disney quality that our guests expect. If you think you have what it takes, please apply today!

What You Will Do

• Lead the teams responsible for manufacturing of work within the illusions Studio. Areas of responsibility:

  • Surface development

  • Figure finishing

  • Procurement

  • Shipping and receiving

  • Electro-mechanical fabrication & assembly

• Support cost reduction activities and lead activities to develop ideas to generate cost savings

• Support productivity and waste reduction activities

• Support Manufacturing Engineering with all error-proofing activities. Ability to learn about PLC's, logic, etc.

• Assist production to develop and maintain the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP's) for production related processes and train operators, lead people, supervisors, and managers as required.

• Work with suppliers and subcontractor to influence schedule plans, mitigations, and acceleration

• Develop schedules and specialty reports as needed to focus on critical items and align team to progress requirements

• Manufacturing process improvements within the building:

  • Communication and report out styles (MS Teams, excel, PowerPoint MS Project, P6)

  • Outside vendor tracking

  • Product Workflow improvements

    • Job plans

    • Trackers

    • Job, Batch or Flow methods

  • Process workflow

    • Manufacturing workflow

  • Ordering and tracking systems

• Working with the Financial team:

  • Forecasting and tracking

  • Earned value of design and manufacturing resources

  • Report out and percent complete

• Change management and effective communication to project.

• Interaction with project teams and great relationship skills.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Strong manufacturing background in 3D printing, CNC machining, fabrication planning

• 10+ years in manufacturing environment for high end precision mechanical assemblies

• 5+ years' experience in project management or project engineering

• B.S degree in Manufacturing Engineering or equivalent area

• Extensive experience in reading engineering drawings, SolidWorks, Auto CAD and Part fabrication methods

• Strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate others to meet deadlines

• The ability to work in a logical, systematic manner.

• Planning and organizational skills, ability to run and monitor the production process, and adjust workflows as needed

• Strong understanding of robotic systems, with general knowledge of electrical and programming

• Understanding of QC methods, reports and material tracking

• Strong ability to problem solve and think outside the box

Preferred Education & Experience

• PMP (Project Management Professional)

• Lean manufacturing 6 Sigma or higher

• M.S Manufacturing Engineering or related areas

• Experience with Themed Entertainment

Additional Information

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

The hiring range for this position in California is $124,900.00-$167,500.00 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.