Job Posting Title:
Principal Ride Control Software Engineer (Controls Automation)Req ID:
10144760Job Description:
About the Role & Team
Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force that imagines, designs, and brings to life all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. Working across a spectrum of disciplines that range from creative and conceptual to scientific and technical, Imagineers blend an innovative mixture of storytelling, art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences, memorable destinations, and innovative entertainment for families around the globe.
Nearly every project at Walt Disney Imagineering includes a first-of-its-kind. Innovation is in our DNA, and Imagineers constantly push the boundaries of technology and invent new goals as well as the solutions to achieve them. As Imagineers, one of our greatest rewards is knowing that the experiences and environments we create inspire others. The diversity of expertise at Imagineering makes us uniquely capable of influencing positive change in our communities and around the world. And knowing that we have helped make a difference is incredibly fulfilling and inspiring for all of us.
This role will work with the Executive Ride Software Engineering.
This is a full-time role.
What You Will Do:
Define, analyze, and validate deterministic solutions for large-scale, fail-safe motion control systems
System Definition
System Performance Analysis
Control System Architecture
Detailed Design Specifications
Hazard Analysis
Test Strategies and Test Plans
Specify, design, and implement operator-intensive, safety-critical control software using real-time operating systems
Theory of Operation
Software Design Document
Debug / Software Integration Test
Install, integrate, and test high-capacity, human-rated control systems domestically and overseas
I/O Checkout
System Functions Testing
Fault Testing
Adjusting / Tuning
Acceptance Testing using Earned Value tracking
Required Qualifications & Skills
10 or more Years of experience in the software engineering field
Software Development Tools (Integrated Development Environment (IDE), compilers, linkers, debuggers, etc) experience
Understanding of at C++
Understanding of or experience with Ladder Logic and Structured Text
Expert ability to present ideas and solutions to executive level leadership
Strong Analytical Skills
Strong Initiative / Self-Motivated
Strong Verbal Communications
Strong Technical Writing Ability
Development and design are primarily in Glendale, CA, but installation, testing, and other support may require travel and/or relocation, up to approximately 20% of the time. Relocation for 1 year at a time is possible, to both domestic and international facilities.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
Ride Control and/or Theme Park Experience
Proficiency in Unified Modeling Language (UML)
Control Theory
Education
Bachelor's Degree (B.S. or B.A.) in Engineering, computer science or math from an accredited college or university required OR a valid and current PE license required
Additional Information:
This position is Located in Glendale, CA OR Orlando, FL. Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities, and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.
The hiring range/pay rate for Principal Ride Controls Software Engineer is $188,400.00-$252,600.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may varydepending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
Job Posting Segment:
WDI Global Business Operations & StrategyJob Posting Primary Business:
Ride Engineering (WDI)Primary Job Posting Category:
Software EngineerEmployment Type:
Full timePrimary City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Glendale, CA, USAAlternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:
Date Posted:
2026-03-03Skills Required
- 10 or more years of software engineering experience
- Experience with software development tools (IDEs, compilers, linkers, debuggers)
- Proficiency in C++
- Understanding of or experience with Ladder Logic and Structured Text
- Experience developing safety-critical control software on real-time operating systems
- Ability to present ideas and solutions to executive-level leadership
- Strong analytical skills
- Self-motivated with strong initiative
- Strong verbal communication skills
- Strong technical writing ability
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or Math OR valid and current PE license
- Willingness to travel and relocate for installation/testing (approximately up to 20%)
- Ride control or theme park experience
- Proficiency in Unified Modeling Language (UML)
- Control theory knowledge
The Walt Disney Company Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about The Walt Disney Company and has not been reviewed or approved by The Walt Disney Company.
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Pay Growth & Progression — Recent union agreements raised wage floors for large groups of park cast members—e.g., Disneyland’s $24/hour minimum rising to $26 over the contract and Walt Disney World’s path from $18 toward about $20–$20.50 by 2026—signaling upward movement in hourly pay. These steps are described as meaningful improvements for many frontline roles.
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Healthcare Strength — Company materials outline medical, dental, and vision coverage for many full‑time roles, wellness resources, and (in Central Florida) access to Centers for Living Well clinics and pharmacy. References to mental‑health support and paid time off reinforce a strong core health offering.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Complimentary theme‑park admission and discounts on hotels, dining, merchandise, and recreation are positioned as signature perks. Education support through Disney Aspire adds notable lifestyle value for eligible hourly employees.
The Walt Disney Company Insights
What We Do
The Walt Disney Company is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that operates through segments including entertainment, sports, and experiences.
