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Theme Park Controls Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer I, Controls

Orlando, FL · On-site

$77K - $100K/yr

... software systems for theme park rides and attractions to provide increased reliability and ... controls and control fault analysis/isolation in a theme park. * Or 5+ years of engineering ...

Controls Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Brooklyn Park Travel: 11 to 49% Pay: $75000 to $85000 Note: No Visa Sponsorship, OPT or other methods, are provided for this position. Must be a Permanent Resident or US ...

Controls Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Controls Engineer Location: Brooklyn Park Travel: 11 to 49% Pay: $75000 to $85000 Note: No Visa Sponsorship, OPT or other methods, are provided for this position. Must be a Permanent Resident or US ...

Controls Engineer

Minneapolis, MN

$87K - $112K/yr

Controls Engineer Direct Hire | Brooklyn Park, MN | $90k-$110k We are seeking a Controls Engineer to join an engineering team responsible for PLC/HMI programming, system development, startup, and ...

CONTROLS ENGINEER

Racine, WI · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Experience with Parker IQAN Controls programming software. * Familiarity with CAD &PDM software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, PDM Enterprise and SolidWorks Manage. * Familiarity with engineering ...

Controls Engineer

Overland Park, KS · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

The Controls Engineer primary role is supporting the project manager assigned to projects. This ... Overland Park, KS. We develop and integrate control systems for industry. For example, we ...

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Lititz, PA · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

TAIT is seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, development, and commissioning of ... Experience in live entertainment, theme parks, ride systems, or show control * Exposure to TAIT ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Houston, TX · Hybrid

$92K - $122K/yr

Senior Automation Controls Engineer Houston, TX - Galleria/Uptown Park Area Full-time | Hybrid Flex Schedule (early in/early out) Overview A rapidly expanding automation consulting firm is growing ...

Controls Engineer

Comstock Park, MI · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Controls Engineer - Comstock Park, MI DISHER is currently partnering with a world leading automation company that specializes in groundbreaking technologies for flawlessly manufacturing millions of ...

Controls Engineer

Golden Valley, AZ · On-site

$74K - $96K/yr

Origin Mining Company operates the Mineral Park copper-molybdenum mine in Arizona and is focused on ... Position Summary The Controls Engineer is responsible for the design, programming, maintenance, and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 13, 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 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.

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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Theme Park Controls Engineer jobs?

For Theme Park Controls Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Theme Park Controls Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Engineer I, Controls

Orlando, FL • On-site

Universal Orlando
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 10K+ employees

$77K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Universal Orlando Resort rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 431 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

JOB SUMMARY:

Performs basic re-design and development efforts of show and / or ride control and software systems for theme park rides and attractions to provide increased reliability and operational improvements.  May support downtime recovery if necessary. Duties include troubleshooting, fault analysis, redesign assignments, test and start-up integration of Ride and Show systems. All work shall be in conformance with ASTM F24 Committee guidelines and compliant with applicable codes, regulations and standards including: AISC, ASME, ASTM, ANSI, AWS, JIC, NEC, and OSHA, among others..

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provides detailed design solutions ranging from basic to complex in order to implement solutions focusing on the improvement of Ride & Show systems in the categories of operational reliability, safety, and serviceability of Ride & Show equipment. Places an emphasized focus on improving system diagnostics, technical training of Ride & Show and Engineering Team Members, and Preventative Maintenance improvement.
  • Troubleshoots electromechanical systems while conducting fault identification and failure analysis to facilitate downtime recovery during the day-to-day operations of UDX parks while being the main liaison between Engineering and our partners in Ride and Show and Operations.
  • Manages assigned projects from design through installation to include project schedules, testing, training, and budget demands.
  • Generates engineering documentation to validate design solutions to be implemented by the engineer including but not limited to control system hardware analysis, firmware analysis, code comparison documentation, change bulletins, CAD drawing changes, and training procedures. Generates Acceptance Test Procedures to validate all system design changes in accordance with UDX standards and procedures.
  • Utilizes project management skills to coordinate and document project status of assigned tasks to give regular and insightful updates to the appropriate attraction management, both operations and Ride & Show as well as Engineering Management.
  • Performs engineering calculations for design, analysis, test, and implementation of electrical and control systems.
  • Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION: 
  • Bachelor’s degree (BS) in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering Technology, Computer Engineering required, or related field preferred.
EXPERIENCE: 
  • 3+ years of engineering experience in control systems and installation utilizing PLCs, ladder logic, variable frequency drives, servo controls and control fault analysis/isolation in a theme park.
  • Or 5+ years of engineering experience in control systems and installation utilizing PLCs, ladder logic, variable frequency drives, servo controls and control fault analysis/isolation in an equivalent engineering environment required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. 
CERTIFICATIONS, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:
  • Certification in Functional Safety from a recognized institution is preferred.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Preferred:

  • Knowledgeable in ASTM and F24 standards.
  • Experience in the design of safety-critical systems.
  • Experience with servo controls as applied to hydraulic, pneumatic, and electromotive motion control systems.
  • Knowledge of the generation of control system specifications, and acceptance test procedures.

Required:

  • "Hands-on" experience with PLC and automated control systems.
  • Experience with motor control centers, motor starters, and variable speed drives.
  • Experience working in diverse teams to accomplish a common goal.
  • Experience communicating effectively across varying skill sets and knowledge bases to define tasks and project status.
  • Experience keeping detailed records through a project lifecycle from initiation to completion.
  • Knowledge of a high-level programming language ("C", Visual Basic or JAVA).
  • Knowledge of electrical standards UL 508A, NFPA and NEC. 
  • Experience utilizing the following products and networks:
    • Programmable Logic Controllers & Programming Software: Rockwell Automation, Siemens, Beckhoff, Omron and/or Pilz.
    • Variable Frequency Drives: Rockwell Automation, ABB, Siemens, and/or Schneider Electric.
    • Human Machine Interfaces: Standalone HMIs (PanelView, SIMATIC, and/or Comfort Panel) and SCADA Systems (FactoryTalk View Studio Suite, WinCC, ICONICS and/or Ignition).
    • Industrial Communication Networks: Ethernet I/P, EtherCAT, PROFINET, PROFIBUS, DeviceNet, ControlNet, Data Highway Plus, Remote I/O and/or MODBUS).
    • AC and DC motors and motor control systems.
  • Experience with troubleshooting and problem-solving of electrical, mechanical, and/or control systems.
  • Experience communicating and collaborating with diverse teams to complete complex tasks.


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. 

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