1

Animatronics Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Animatronics Engineer information

How much does an Animatronic Engineer make?

Animatronic Engineers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Professionals with specialized skills in robotics, mechanical design, and programming may earn higher salaries, especially in entertainment or theme park environments.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

What type of engineer works on animatronics?

An Animatronics Engineer is a specialized engineer who designs, develops, and maintains animatronic systems used in entertainment, theme parks, and robotics. They often have skills in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and programming, and may work with tools like CAD software and microcontrollers. This role requires knowledge of robotics, pneumatics, and control systems to create realistic and functional animatronic figures.

What is the difference between Animatronics Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAnimatronics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Robotics Engineering; specialized training in animatronicsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; professional licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentTheme parks, film studios, entertainment industryManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design
Industry UsageDesigning and building animated figures and robots for entertainmentDesigning mechanical systems for various industries

Animatronics Engineers focus on creating animated figures and robotic characters for entertainment settings, requiring specialized skills in robotics and electronics. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, designing mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles involve mechanical design, Animatronics Engineers specialize in entertainment robotics, making their skills more tailored to animatronic projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-demand industries. Executive or managerial roles in engineering firms may also reach or exceed this salary level.
What are popular job titles related to Animatronics Engineer jobs in Arizona? For Animatronics Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animatronics Engineer jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Animatronics Engineer jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Animatronics Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Animatronics Engineer job openings:
Show Tech

$20/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Install, wire, configure, program, and test all electronic and technical show systems including lighting, sound, animatronics, prop controllers, and interactive elements ahead of opening.

  • Conduct pre-show walkthroughs, test and reset technical elements, remain on-call during operational hours, and immediately diagnose and repair malfunctioning props, lighting, sound, and control systems.

  • Enforce safety standards across all electrical, mechanical, and rigging systems, document recurring issues, and communicate repair needs to technical leads and management.


Job description

Show Tech– Seasonal
Scottsdale AZ  | $20 hour | Seasonal | Sept - Nov

Join the Thirteenth Floor Team

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment—and proudly the world's largest operator of Halloween attractions. With eighteen markets spanning Florida to California and millions of guests thrilled each year, we don't just produce events. We redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Denver and powered by a team of fearless creators, we've built a culture where curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to go beyond expectations are the standard—not the exception. When you join Thirteenth Floor, you're not just taking a job. You're stepping into the magic behind the screams.


Returning applicants: If you have worked for Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group in a prior season, please contact your location manager directly regarding rehire status. Do not submit a new application through the online system.

What You'll Do

As our Seasonal Event Tech Manager, you're the backbone of the show. Every light cue, pneumatic scare, and interactive effect that makes guests jump is your responsibility—you'll keep all electronic and technical systems running flawlessly from first build through final night.

Show Prep & Installation

  • Install, wire, and configure all electronic and technical show systems ahead of opening, including lighting, sound, animatronics, prop controllers, and interactive elements

  • Program and test DMX-controlled lighting and addressable LED systems to achieve intended creative effects

  • Configure PLC systems for automated scare sequences, ensuring precise timing and reliable triggering every night

  • Assemble and pressure-test pneumatic systems powering animatronics and motion-based props

Nightly Show Readiness

  • Conduct thorough pre-show walkthroughs, testing and resetting all technical elements before doors open

  • Remain on-call and on-site throughout operational hours to respond immediately to any show-critical failure

  • Diagnose and repair malfunctioning props, lighting, sound, and control systems with minimal downtime

Troubleshooting & Repairs

  • Serve as the go-to technical resource for all electronic, electrical, and mechanical issues during the run of show

  • Troubleshoot fright prop controllers (e.g., Fright Ideas), motion sensors, and show control systems

  • Perform carpentry repairs and scenic fixes as needed to support safe, high-quality show presentation

Safety & Teardown

  • Enforce strict safety standards across all electrical, mechanical, and rigging systems

  • Document recurring issues and communicate repair needs to technical leads and management

What You Bring
  • Proven hands-on experience in electrical wiring, electronics, or a related technical field—live events, theater, or entertainment production strongly preferred

  • Working knowledge of DMX lighting systems, addressable LEDs, and programming tools such as Light-O-Rama, QLab, or xLights

  • Experience building, configuring, or troubleshooting PLC systems for automated or interactive applications

  • Familiarity with pneumatic systems, animatronic mechanics, and motion-based prop operation

  • Experience with prop and fright controllers (e.g., Fright Ideas) and  control systems (training provided for niche systems)

  • Basic carpentry and scenic repair skills—enough to support show maintenance and structural fixes in the field

  • Strong diagnostic and problem-solving instincts; calm and resourceful when systems fail mid-show

  • Ability to lift 50+ lbs, work on ladders, and operate comfortably in dark, confined, fog-filled environments

  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours throughout the season

  • Must be 18 years of age or older

Compensation & Employment Details

Hourly Rate: $20.00  per hour, depending on experience
Employment Type: Seasonal/Temporary
Expected Season Duration: Mid Sept – Mid-November 2026
Work Schedule: Evenings, weekends, and holidays required during operational season

Arizona law requires disclosure that this is a seasonal/temporary position with an anticipated end date. Employment beyond the stated season is not guaranteed.

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group participates in E-Verify. As required by federal law, we will verify the identity and employment eligibility of all hired individuals.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, including the Arizona Civil Rights Act (A.R.S. § 41-1463).

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations by contacting hr@thirteenthfloor.com