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Theme Park Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading ... The Controls Engineer I is responsible for implementing sustaining solutions, as well as performing ...

... theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading ... The Controls Engineer I is responsible for implementing sustaining solutions, as well as performing ...

Controls Engineer I

Universal City, CA · On-site

$118K - $130K/yr

... theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading ... The Controls Engineer I is responsible for implementing sustaining solutions, as well as performing ...

The Controls Engineering team is responsible for control systems on multiple projects spanning all ... Experience in live entertainment or theme park applications. * Expected Travel: 15-20%. Must be ...

The Controls Engineering team is responsible for control systems on multiple projects spanning all ... Experience in live entertainment or theme park applications. * Expected Travel: 15-20%. Must be ...

Controls Engineer

Orlando, FL

$77K - $100K/yr

The Controls Engineering team is responsible for control systems on multiple projects spanning all ... Experience in live entertainment or theme park applications. * Expected Travel: 20-40%. Must be ...

Controls Engineer

Lititz, PA

$77K - $100K/yr

The Controls Engineering team is responsible for control systems on multiple projects spanning all ... Experience in live entertainment or theme park applications. * Expected Travel: 20-40%. Must be ...

Engineer II, Controls

Orlando, FL

$77K - $100K/yr

Engineer II, Controls Apply now Job no: 659378 Work type: Regular (Full-Time) Location: Orlando ... theme park rides and attractions to provide increased reliability and operational improvements.

... programming for new Mexico park Development ensuring that execution aligns with the product ... Strongly preferred experience in theme parks and waterparks * Proven experience developing physical ...

Engineer I, Controls

Orlando, FL

$77K - $100K/yr

Engineer I, Controls Apply now Job no: 662743 Work type: Regular (Full-Time) Location: Orlando ... software systems for theme park rides and attractions to provide increased reliability and ...

Control Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

You will be responsible for electrical/controls engineering on large-scale projects. Project ... Experience with ride control or theme park applications is a plus, other industry background will ...

Control Engineer

Orlando, FL

$78K - $101K/yr

You will be responsible for electrical/controls engineering on large-scale projects. Project ... Experience with ride control or theme park applications is a plus, other industry background will ...

Controls Engineer We are seeking a dedicated Controls Engineer specializing in Automation to ... Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Brooklyn Park,MN. Application Deadline This ...

Controls Engineer

$85K - $110K/yr

Controls Engineer: Overland Park,KS Full time & Skill Requirement: • Experience in reading and creating the HVAC schematics • Experience in working with PLC's, VFD. • Experience in ...

Controls Engineer

Winn, MI · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

Morbark LLC located in Winn, Michigan is looking for a Controls Engineer. Morbark LLC offers ... Develop software modules and control logic for machine operation using platforms such as Parker ...

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Theme Park Controls Engineer information

See salary details

$55K

$96.6K

$131K

How much do theme park controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for theme park controls engineer in the United States is $96,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Theme Park Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Theme Park Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry safety standards such as NFPA or IEC is typically required, along with certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license being advantageous. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and responding quickly to technical issues. These skills ensure the safe, reliable, and innovative operation of complex theme park attractions, directly impacting guest safety and experience.

What does a Theme Park Controls Engineer do?

A Theme Park Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains the control systems that operate rides, attractions, and show elements in theme parks. They ensure these systems run safely and reliably, integrating hardware and software to automate ride movements, lighting, audio, and special effects. Their work involves troubleshooting, programming, and collaborating with other engineers to deliver seamless guest experiences while adhering to strict safety standards.

Do engineers work at theme parks?

Yes, theme park controls engineers are employed to design, install, and maintain the electronic and automation systems that operate rides and attractions. They often work with PLCs, SCADA systems, and safety protocols in a fast-paced environment, requiring technical skills and certifications in control systems or electrical engineering.

What is the difference between Theme Park Controls Engineer vs Amusement Ride Technician?

AspectTheme Park Controls EngineerAmusement Ride Technician
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, controls or electrical specializationHigh school diploma or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of control systems in theme parksMaintenance, inspection, and repair of rides on-site
Industry UsageUsed in designing and implementing control systems for rides and attractionsPrimarily involved in ride operation and troubleshooting

Theme Park Controls Engineers focus on designing and developing control systems for rides, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, Amusement Ride Technicians handle maintenance and repairs, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the theme park industry but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Theme Park Controls Engineers and how can they be addressed?

Theme Park Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating complex ride control systems with older park infrastructure, ensuring safety compliance, and minimizing downtime during maintenance or upgrades. To address these issues, engineers must have a strong understanding of both legacy and modern control technologies, work closely with cross-functional teams (such as ride operators and maintenance staff), and stay updated on industry safety standards. Effective communication and thorough documentation are also essential for troubleshooting and implementing system improvements efficiently.
Infographic showing various Theme Park Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Controls Engineer I

NBCUniversal

Los Angeles, CA

$118K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Description

NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our global theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film and television studios, including Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the Universal Studio Group banner, and operate industry-leading theme parks and experiences around the world through Universal Destinations & Experiences, including Universal Orlando Resort, home to Universal Epic Universe, and Universal Studios Hollywood. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit www.nbcuniversal.com for more information.

Our impact is rooted in improving the communities where our employees, customers, and audiences live and work. We have a rich tradition of giving back and ensuring our employees have the opportunity to serve their communities. We champion an inclusive culture and strive to attract and develop a talented workforce to create and deliver a wide range of content reflecting our world.

Job Description

The Controls Engineer I is responsible for implementing sustaining solutions, as well as performing design modifications to ride and show system elements to improve safety, reliability, operational readiness, diagnostics, and serviceability.

The successful Controls Engineer I works in a fast-paced environment and is adaptable, cooperative, enthusiastic, optimistic, dependable, consistent, patient, diligent, and attentive to detail, with strong self-discipline.

The Technical Services Controls Engineering department is responsible for sustaining existing ride and show systems and participating in design reviews, installation and commissioning, and validation of new ride and show systems designed by outside vendors.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:                          

  • Support safety-related control system design, implementation, validation, and sustainment activities (under guidance of senior engineers), including associated documentation deliverables
  • Generating and implementing engineering changes (hardware, software, and documentation) to sustain ride and show control systems
  • Supporting downtime response and recovery by troubleshooting control systems and coordinating follow-up corrective actions
  • Support review of vendor engineering designs, installations/implementations, and test documentation; document comments and follow up on closeout
  • Generating maintenance procedure and manual updates, as well as preparing and delivering maintenance training for controls equipment
  • Supporting new attractions and major overhauls/refurbishments (primarily control system updates) through design reviews, commissioning support, and validation
  • Participate in root cause analysis (RCA), document findings, and support implementation of program/process improvements to reduce repeat downtime events

Salary Range: $118,660 - $130,000

Qualifications

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

  • 2+ years of experience in the field of Control Systems Engineering (internship/co-op experience considered)
  • Strong critical thinking and troubleshooting skills
  • Strong documentation skills
  • Strong communication skills
  • High degree of tact and diplomacy to obtain favorable decisions or maintain goodwill
  • Exposure to risk assessments and associated documentation (e.g., safety requirement specifications, FMEA) and ability to support their development
  • Experience with:
    • Rockwell Automation products and software
    • Motor control and VFDs
    • PLCs/PACs and IPCs
    • HMI systems

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

  • Experience in the theme park industry
  • Experience with:
    • Closed-loop motion control and servo system
    • Hydraulic and pneumatic systems
    • Siemens S7 controllers and software
    • Beckhoff CX controllers and software (TwinCAT)
    • Server-based HMI systems (e.g., FactoryTalk View SE, Ignition)
    • Network systems and components
    • Version control systems (e.g., Git)
    • Python development
    • Show control
    • Audio, video, projection and lighting systems
    • Application of UL 508A, NEC, NFPA, and ASTM F24 standards
    • Application of functional safety standards (ISO 12100, 13849-1, 13849-2, IEC 62061 and 60204-1). TÜV Functional Safety certification is a plus.

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, or arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act, where applicable.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to AccessibilitySupport@nbcuni.com.