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Ride Show Control Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Themeparkav

AV Design & Show Control Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$77K - $101K/yr

... ride systems, special effects, DSPs, PLCs, show controllers, media servers, and show action ... AV, show control, programming, configuration, and system performance issues. You will help ...

NBCUniversal

Mgr Ride/Show Engineering

Universal City, CA · On-site

$96K - $118K/yr

... Ride Control, and/or Show Control Systems, and facilities. Responsibilities include: * Manages in-field installation, test and adjustment of show and ride systems, with a focus on Show Action ...

Universal Creative

Ride Mechanic

Orlando, FL

... ride/show mechanical systems. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: * Performs preventative and predictive maintenance as prescribed by OEM and UO Engineering Specifications. This would include changing time ...

NBC Universal

Controls Engineer II

Orlando, FL · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Performs moderately complex re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and ... Generates engineering documentation to validate design solutions to be implemented by the engineer ...

New

Universal Creative

Engineer II, Controls

Orlando, FL · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Engineering, UO Professional Hot Job, Orlando - Technical Services JOB SUMMARY ... Performs moderately complex re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and ...

Universal Studios

Controls Engineer II

Orlando, FL · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Performs moderately complex re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and ... Generates engineering documentation to validate design solutions to be implemented by the engineer ...

New

Universal Studios

Mechanical Engineer II

Orlando, FL · On-site

Implements solutions and performs design modifications to Ride & Show system equipment on assigned ... Develops and conducts Acceptance Test Procedures on control or mechanical systems modifications ...

New

Universal Creative

Controls Engineer II

Orlando, FL · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

Performs moderately complex re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and ... Generates engineering documentation to validate design solutions to be implemented by the engineer ...

Universal Orlando

Engineer I, Controls

Orlando, FL

$77K - $100K/yr

Performs basic re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and software systems ... Generates engineering documentation to validate design solutions to be implemented by the engineer ...

Universal Orlando

Controls Engineer II

Orlando, FL

$77K - $100K/yr

Performs moderately complex re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and ... Generates engineering documentation to validate design solutions to be implemented by the engineer ...

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Ride Show Control Engineer information

What is a ride show control engineer?

Ride Show Control Engineers are specialized professionals who design, implement, and maintain the control systems that synchronize show elements with rides in theme parks and attractions. They ensure that lighting, audio, animatronics, special effects, and ride mechanics work together seamlessly and safely to create immersive guest experiences. Their work involves programming, troubleshooting, and integrating various hardware and software systems to achieve precise timing and coordination. These engineers collaborate with creative, mechanical, and electrical teams to bring complex themed entertainment concepts to life.

What are some common challenges faced by ride show control engineers when integrating new technology into existing theme park attractions?

Ride Show Control Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technology into existing attractions, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining strict safety standards, and minimizing downtime for guests. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—helps address these issues. Additionally, thorough testing and simulation are essential to verify that updates function seamlessly without disrupting the overall guest experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ride show control engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ride Show Control Engineer, you need expertise in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and safety system certifications like TUV or ISA are typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and respond quickly to technical challenges. These skills ensure reliable, safe, and immersive guest experiences in theme park attractions where precision and safety are paramount.

What is the difference between Ride Show Control Engineer vs Ride Systems Technician?

AspectRide Show Control EngineerRide Systems Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, certifications in control systemsTechnical diploma or certification in ride maintenance or electronics
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and overseeing ride control systems in amusement parksMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing ride systems on-site
Employer & IndustryTheme parks, amusement parks, entertainment venuesAmusement parks, ride manufacturers, maintenance companies

The Ride Show Control Engineer focuses on designing and programming ride control systems, ensuring safety and functionality from a technical and engineering perspective. In contrast, the Ride Systems Technician handles the hands-on maintenance and repair of ride systems. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the Engineer is more involved in system development, while the Technician emphasizes operational upkeep.

What are popular job titles related to Ride Show Control Engineer jobs?

For Ride Show Control Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Associate Manager, Ride & Show Engineering - Ride Systems (Expat to Beijing)

Orlando, FL

Universal Orlando
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Universal Orlandoexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage or support vendors through the bidding, designing, manufacturing, testing, shipping, installation, start-up, and commissioning of Ride and Show systems.

  • Provide technical guidance and vendor management during design, fabrication, installation, testing, and commissioning activities, including scope generation, contract management, and change order processing.

  • Review and develop technical documents, test protocols, and review vendor deliverables, including drawings, component selection, calculations, and test results.

Universal Orlando Resort rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 431 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 58 rated theme parks

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Provides technical management, inclusive of budget and schedule, for a singular contract or scope of work. Responsible for supporting or managing the successful specification, bid/award, design, production, installation, and acceptance testing of Ride and/or Show systems, to include Audio, Special Effects, Projection, Lighting, Set/Scenic, Props, Show Action Equipment, Animated Figures, Ride Systems, Mechanical Systems, Network Systems, Parkwide Systems, Ride Control, and/or Show Control Systems.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists in managing or manages vendors through the process of bidding, designing, manufacturing, testing, shipping, installation, start up, and commissioning of Ride/Show systems.
  • Provides technical guidance and vendor management through day-to-day design, fabrication, installation, test & adjust and commissioning activities. Responsible for both technical and project/contract management as it applies to scope generation, vendor contract establishment and management, directives, and change order processing with the support of Ride/Show leaders.
  • Supports the translating of creative intent and business goals into technical documents that will serve to acquire bids and lock in price and schedule for delivery of systems.
  • Performs engineering technical (calculation, design, drafting, research) support to the Ride/Show project team and/or overall Engineering and Safety as assigned.
  • Reviews portions of vendor-provided design review documents. Includes drawing review, component selection review, calculation review, test plan review, test results review, or review of other deliverable items as specified by Engineering & Safety management.
  • Reviews, edits, or develops test protocols, procedures, and plans. Executes witness or approve testing and test results as assigned and authorized by Engineering and Safety management.
  • Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities. 
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
  • Project experience in theme park development, construction, show and ride systems design or fabrication within the entertainment/theme park industry preferred. 
  • Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to organize and manage a complex series of tasks and vendor(s) to develop and implement show and ride systems. 
  • Strength in schedule analysis and contract management required.
  • Comfortable influencing decisions of major nature. High degree of tact & diplomacy to obtain favorable decisions or maintain good will.
  • Comfortable working in a non-routine environment with frequently changing situations.
  • Some global travel may be required (less than 30%). 
  • Significant vendor management.
EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in an applicable technical field required. Advanced degrees preferred.

EXPERIENCE

3+ years’ experience in theme park specific technical/engineering role(s) required; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.

Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2025 Universal Studios. © 2025 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. EOE

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