Principal Show Programmer

Company: Walt Disney Imagineering
Location: Shafter
Posted on: September 24, 2022

Job Description:

Show Programmers facilitate development of animation for Audio-Animatronics figures, animated props, or ride systems by programming intricately controlled themed attraction sequences, and/or integrate show control systems with rides, Audio-Animatronics, and other show elements such as special effects, audio/video, show lighting, etc. These highly technical positions require strong creative intuition and the ability to collaborate closely with Creative, Engineering, Ride, Manufacturing, Media Production, and Theme Park Maintenance teams.

A Show Programmer's work can fall into one, or more, of four distinct categories:
Audio-Animatronics Figure Animation
Developing character animations for Audio-Animatronics figures and animated props.
Ride Animation
Developing animations for free-ranging vehicles, motion base platforms, and other programmable ride systems.
Figure Programming
Developing digital Audio-Animatronics animation rigs and configuring Audio-Animatronics figures and Show Action Equipment for safe operation.
Show Sequence Programming
Integrating Show Control systems with rides, Audio-Animatronics, and other show elements such as special effects, audio/video, projection, show lighting, etc.

A successful Show Programming candidate must demonstrate exceptional skills in one or more of the fore mentioned areas.

Responsibilities :
Oversee a figure show programming team through all phases of engineering design, production, installation, testing, and documentation while partnering with the show animators and creative team to ensure the optimal creative performance and safety requirements of the Audio-Animatronics figures.
Developing digital Audio-Animatronics animation rigs and configuring Audio-Animatronics figures and Show Action Equipment for safe operation.
Assist in creating, debugging, and organizing Audio-Animatronics digital assets (character sheets, animation data, rigs, ride paths, shots, and/or models).
Integrating Show Control systems with rides, Audio-Animatronics figures, and other show elements such as special effects, audio/video, projection, show lighting, etc.
Pipeline and animation process support and asset integration.
Figure Programming process development support and ideation.
Partner with Engineering and Creative teams to configure and program Audio-Animatronics figures and Show Action Equipment to conform to safety requirements and to meet creative intent.
Document and archive all attraction show data created by the Show Programming department.
Tool development and maintenance.
Lead and mentor less experienced show programmers with the tools and skillset to grow within the department
Support show programming management in future casting and tool sets used across multiple projects
Develop processes and pipeline with partnering groups to be used across projects
Basic Qualifications :
Familiar with maintaining and creating rigs for CG character animation.
Able to provide technical support for computer graphic animation applications.
Desired software knowledge/familiarity among: Maya and/or Motion Builder, Adobe Creative Suite, and Shotgun
Able to communicate (verbally and in writing) clearly and concisely, regularly keeping stakeholders informed of status, risks, and issues.
Able to function in a dynamic work environment, managing multiple project activities.
Able to work with limited supervision and to integrate inputs from many individual team members.
Be a creative problem solver and demonstrate comfort with inventive solutions.
Have a valid passport and willing to travel domestically or internationally.
Preferred Qualifications :
Have basic knowledge of mechanical systems, control systems, and/or robotics.
Desired scripting knowledge with languages such as: Python, Mel, C, C++
Experience with Kuka robotics
Desired knowledge of Tait Navigator software
Experience with motion-capture tools and processes
Familiarity with Unreal Engine and/or Unity, Z-Brush and Solidworks

Required Education :
High School Diploma
Preferred Education :
Two-year Electronics Degree or, BA or BFA in Traditional Animation, Computer Animation, Game Development or, BS in automation control systems programming, or equivalents.
OR
Demonstrate multiple years of on-the-job experience and training in real-world industrial automation, or animation roles, as indicated above.

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 .

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--- About Walt Disney Imagineering:
Founded in 1952 as WED Enterprises to design and build the world's first theme park - Disneyland - Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) is where imagination and creativity combine with cutting-edge technology to create unforgettable experiences. WDI is the creative force that imagines, designs and builds all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions and cruise ships worldwide. Imagineering's unique strength comes from its diverse global team of creative and technical professionals, who build on Disney's legacy of storytelling to pioneer new forms of entertainment. The Imagineers who practice this unique blend of art and science work in more than 100 disciplines to shepherd an idea all the way from "blue sky" concept phase to opening day.

About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise with the following business segments: media networks, parks and resorts, studio entertainment, consumer products and interactive media. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney's stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with WDI (Walt Disney Imagineering).

WDI is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Disney fosters a business culture where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a rapidly changing world.

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