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Entertainment Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Great Wolf Lodge

Entertainment Ambassador

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$14.50/hr

Pay: $14.50  At Great Wolf, the Entertainment Ambassador creates an exciting atmosphere for ... Learn new programming multiple times a year including, but not limited to, dances, crafts or themed ...

USO

Manager, Entertainment Relations

Arlington, VA

$159K/yr

... diverse USO programming worldwide and key USO storytelling and fundraising initiatives ... entertainment activities, including but not limited to talent/agent solicitation and procurement ...

USO

Manager, Entertainment Relations

Arlington, VA · On-site

$159K/yr

... diverse USO programming worldwide and key USO storytelling and fundraising initiatives ... entertainment activities, including but not limited to talent/agent solicitation and procurement ...

USO

$158K/yr

... diverse USO programming worldwide and key USO storytelling and fundraising initiatives ... entertainment activities, including but not limited to talent/agent solicitation and procurement ...

DMI

MECM Engineering

Arlington, VA · On-site

$57K/yr

The MECM Engineering is a senior technical and managerial role focused on leading the ongoing ... Convenience/Concierge - Virtual health visits, commuter perks, pet insurance, and entertainment ...

DMI

MECM Engineering

Arlington, VA

$57K - $62K/yr

The MECM Engineering is a senior technical and managerial role focused on leading the ongoing ... Convenience/Concierge - Virtual health visits, commuter perks, pet insurance, and entertainment ...

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

AV Director

Woodford, VA · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

This includes supporting conferences, weddings, corporate events, entertainment programming, and in-house productions. You'll ensure exceptional guest experiences through innovative AV solutions ...

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Entertainment Engineering information

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$12

$31

$56

How much do entertainment engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entertainment engineering in Virginia is $31.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $37.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In entertainment engineering, senior roles such as lead engineers, systems architects, or specialized technical directors can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in areas like audio-visual systems, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often correlates with working on large-scale projects, in-demand expertise, or within major entertainment companies.

What do entertainment engineers do?

Entertainment engineers design, develop, and maintain technical systems used in entertainment productions such as concerts, theater, theme parks, and live events. They work with audio, lighting, video, and special effects equipment, often using tools like CAD software and control systems, and may require knowledge of safety standards and certifications. Their role ensures the technical aspects of entertainment experiences run smoothly and safely.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

In entertainment engineering, high-paying roles such as senior technical directors, lead engineers, or specialized consultants can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially in large productions or companies. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced technical skills, and often involve leadership responsibilities or unique expertise in areas like audio-visual systems, stage design, or immersive technology.

What are some common challenges faced by entertainment engineers when working on live events, and how can they prepare for them?

Entertainment engineers often encounter challenges such as last-minute changes to performance requirements, tight setup schedules, and the need to coordinate with large, multidisciplinary teams. To prepare, it's important to develop strong problem-solving skills, maintain clear communication with creative and technical staff, and stay adaptable in fast-paced environments. Familiarizing yourself with a range of entertainment technologies and having contingency plans for equipment failures or unexpected issues can help ensure successful event execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entertainment Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entertainment Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, electrical, or structural engineering, often supported by a relevant degree and hands-on experience in themed entertainment or live event production. Proficiency with CAD software, show control systems, and industry-specific safety standards is typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help you navigate unique technical challenges and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the safe, reliable, and innovative execution of complex entertainment projects, meeting both artistic and operational goals.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

In entertainment engineering, senior roles such as lead engineers or specialized technical directors can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in areas like audio-visual systems, and working in large production environments. High salaries are often associated with roles requiring expertise in complex systems, project management, and sometimes certifications or advanced degrees.

What is the difference between Entertainment Engineering vs Audio Engineering?

AspectEntertainment EngineeringAudio Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in entertainment techAudio certifications, audio engineering degrees
Work EnvironmentTheme parks, live shows, amusement venuesRecording studios, live concerts, broadcast
Industry UsageEntertainment industry, event productionMusic, film, broadcasting

Entertainment Engineering focuses on designing and developing entertainment systems and experiences, often involving large-scale projects like theme parks and live shows. Audio Engineering specializes in capturing, mixing, and producing sound for music, film, and broadcast. While both fields require technical skills and certifications, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What is entertainment engineering?

Entertainment engineering is a specialized field that combines principles of engineering, design, and technology to create, develop, and maintain systems and structures used in the entertainment industry. This can include stage machinery, special effects, theme park attractions, lighting systems, and audio-visual equipment. Entertainment engineers work closely with artists, designers, and producers to ensure that technical aspects of performances, events, and attractions are safe, reliable, and innovative. The role requires knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, as well as an understanding of the unique needs of live entertainment and themed experiences.
What are popular job titles related to Entertainment Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Entertainment Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entertainment Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entertainment Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
Entertainment Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entertainment Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,061 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Senior Entertainment Carpenter

Senior Entertainment Carpenter

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

Job description

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
What you get to do:
The Scenic Art Craftsperson - Entertainment Carpenter, is responsible for the production and execution of carpentry and installation projects for the entirety of the Entertainment Department to include sign installation, event builds and install, and show product based on the Production Area's strategic plan and creative vision.
  • Fabricating and installing structural, interior, and thematic projects of all types including but not limited to, theatrical scenic and property, event kiosks (Culinary and Merchandise), Howl-O-Scream mazes, Christmas Town theming support, entertainment workspace enhancements and park development projects.
  • Providing solution-based feedback in the development of new projects
  • Creating detailed material, tool and equipment lists for each project based on documentation and coordination.
  • Assisting the Supervisor in sourcing in sourcing and estimating materials, tools, and equipment
  • Assisting Supervisor in developing fabrication timelines
  • Maintaining previously fabricated projects and equipment
  • Assisting with installation, operation, strike and storage of shows and events.
  • Acting as a "business owner" for our team; keeping cost benefit for all projects need in mind from conception to completion.
  • Continuing to pursue personal development of skills and capabilities for effective performance through ongoing training, project assistance and independent study of each field.
  • Demonstrating and encouraging a positive attitude and work environment
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

What it takes to succeed:
Education Requirements:
  • High School and Trade/Vocational School required or equivalent 5 years work experience in Carpentry required.
  • 5 years professional experience preferred.
  • Professional entertainment or theme park experience preferred.

Required Qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Minimum of 3 years' experience in carpentry, fabrication, and custom wood working.
  • Must be able to interpret site plans, elevations, detail, 3D models etc. to execute assigned projects to the exacting detail to meet engineering and local permitting guidelines.
  • Must be able to demonstrate extensive knowledge of fabrication materials and provide feedback on the appropriate materials for each project's unique needs.
  • Basic understanding of electrical, plumbing, data, and other service coordination with new construction.
  • Must be able to work on multiple ongoing projects simultaneously.
  • Must demonstrate safe work practices and knowledge of appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
  • Mist be able to work professionally, responsibly, and courteously in a team environment.
  • Must have good oral, written and communication skills, with the ability to converse professionally in person, over the phone, email, and radio.
  • Mist be able to work at heights between 6 and 90 feet.
  • Must be able to lift, push and pull in excess of 80 pounds.
  • Must be comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments (dark/nighttime conditions, in/around water, in varying weather conditions).
  • Must be comfortable working in close proximity to animals.
  • Must be willing to maintain training certification(s) on all equipment required for this position (i.e., aerial lifts, forklifts, CNC router, shop tools, etc.)
  • Must be able to work varying and rotating shifts due to show/event install, operation, or strike (i.e., be able to work opening and closing shifts, as well as weekends, extended shifts, and overtime due to show/event install, operation, or strike) as required by supervisor.
  • Must have a basic understanding of safe rigging practices.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience with industrial vehicles such as aerial lifts, forklifts scissor lifts, flatbed trucks, CDL.
  • Ability to read and interpret theatrical lighting plots, scripts, concepts and interpret creative concepts into final projects.
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook equivalent to business needs.
  • A comfort in operating computers and control systems using in design and fabrication.

Compensation: 17 USD
The perks of the position:
  • Paid Time Off
  • Complimentary Park Tickets and Passes
  • Park Discounts on Food and Merchandise
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401K Retirement plan
  • Voluntary Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Benefits
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Dependent and Health Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Legal Assistance Plan

EEO Employer:
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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