Principal Ride Controls Software Engineer, Design Assurance

Company: Walt Disney Imagineering
Location: Glendale
Posted on: February 10, 2026

Job Description:

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force that imagines, designs, and brings to life all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. Working across a spectrum of disciplines that range from creative and conceptual to scientific and technical, Imagineers blend an innovative mixture of storytelling, art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences, memorable destinations, and innovative entertainment for families around the globe. Nearly every project at Walt Disney Imagineering includes a first-of-its-kind. Innovation is in our DNA, and Imagineers constantly push the boundaries of technology and invent new goals as well as the solutions to achieve them. As Imagineers, one of our greatest rewards is knowing that the experiences and environments we create inspire others. The diversity of expertise at Imagineering makes us uniquely capable of influencing positive change in our communities and around the world. And knowing that we have helped make a difference is incredibly fulfilling and inspiring for all of us. Ride Control Software Engineers work within Imagineering’s Ride Engineering Studio in a highly collaborative environment on diverse teams. Engineering activities cover all aspects of ride control software design and implementation, from concept to commissioning, for a wide variety of innovative ride platforms. The role of Ride Control Software Engineer Principal (Design Assurance) focuses on design, analysis, system safety, and verification across multiple projects, supporting project teams in critical engineering quality activities. This role will report to the Executive, Ride Controls Software Engineering. This position is located in Glendale, CA OR Orlando, FL. This is a full time role. Responsibilities: Conduct design assurance activities in standards and best practices development, partnering with ride engineering partners across Disney Experiences and the amusement ride industry. Stay abreast of, and participate in the development of, company and industry standards and methodologies. Participate in company committees and industry organizations involved in ride safety and design. Maintain and improve engineering processes to meet project delivery and design assurance objectives. Conduct design assurance activities for ride project design review and testing, partnering with ride project team members. Review ride software designs for compliance with industry and company standards. Assess whether designs are of appropriate quality and meet project requirements. Advise project teams on optimal ride control software designs, safety analysis methods and results, and testing approaches. Mentor and train ride control engineers. Prepare and present Disney requirements and design practices for internal training. Advocate the processes, standards, and practices that produce quality designs. Mentor and assist design engineers with technical challenges, standards, and methodology. Mentor ride engineers in design excellence. Basic Qualifications: At least 15 years of experience with ride control software design, engineering, installation, and commissioning Proficient in fail-safe and safety-related control system design Experience with requirements development, test plans/procedures, and test execution Extensive knowledge of ride control software architectures Solid understanding of communication protocols: TCP/IP, CAN, serial, ProfiNET, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT Proficient in automated control software design applying functional safety concepts and standards Demonstrated practice in functional safety standards, including IEC 61508, IEC 62061, ISO 13849 Familiarity with amusement and automation industry standards, including ASTM F2291 Solid skills in technical document writing and communication Ability to travel domestically and internationally for 1-week to 3-month durations Ability to handle multiple complex efforts simultaneously, exert influence, and manage tasks and priorities Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of amusement industry standards applicable in US, Japan, France, Hong Kong, and China Proficient in Rockwell, Siemens, and Beckhoff automation software architecture and components Expertise in motor and motion control methods and components Solid understanding of kinematics as it pertains to ride systems and machines Knowledge of pneumatic controls and devices Knowledge of modeling methodologies using UML/SysML Experience with multitasking software platforms and design approaches Experience in broad application of control system theory (closed-loop control, MIMO systems, positioning and navigation) Required Education: Bachelor of Science Degree in an engineering field from an accredited university required. 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 https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits. DXMedia The hiring range/pay rate for Principal Ride Development Engineer is $188,400.00-$252,600.00 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.

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