Sr Software Engineer

At Disney Experiences Technology, our team creates world-class immersive digital experiences for the Company’s premier vacation brands including Disney’s Parks & Resorts worldwide, Disney Cruise Line, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, and Disney Vacation Club. The Disney Experiences Technology team is responsible for the end-to-end digital and physical Guest experience for all technology & digital-led initiatives across the Attractions & Entertainment, Food & Beverage, Resorts & Transportation, and Merchandise lines of business as well as other initiatives including the MyDisneyExperience app and Hey, Disney! We are responsible for the end-to-end digital and physical Guest experience for all technology & digital-led initiatives across the Attractions & Entertainment, Food & Beverage, Resorts & Transportation and Merchandise lines of business as well as other initiatives including MyDisneyExperience and Hey, Disney! As a Senior Software Engineer, you will lead the development of real-time control software for complex ride systems. This role blends embedded firmware expertise with safety-critical system design, supporting the full lifecycle from system concept through commissioning and documentation. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative, reliable, and safe guest experiences. Key Responsibilities • Design and implement embedded software for real-time control systems using C/C++ and RTOS platforms. • Integrate embedded systems with PLCs and industrial automation protocols. • Lead hazard analyses (FMEA, fault trees) and ensure compliance with safety standards. • Develop and review software architecture, interface specifications, and test plans. • Support field testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning of ride systems. • Collaborate with hardware, controls, and safety engineers to define system behavior. • Guide and mentor junior engineers and technical staff during development and testing. • Participate in design reviews and maintain rigorous documentation and change control processes. • Stay current with embedded systems trends, tools, and technologies. Required Qualifications • Minimum 5 years of experience in embedded software development for control systems. • Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded platforms and experience with RTOS (e.g., VxWorks, FreeRTOS). • Experience integrating embedded systems with PLCs (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens). • Strong understanding of real-time constraints, safety-critical systems, and fail-safe design. • Hands-on experience with hardware debugging tools (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers). • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (UART, SPI, I2C, EtherCAT, PROFINET, Ethernet/IP). • Excellent communication skills, including the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical audiences. Preferred Qualifications • Experience with VxWorks or similar RTOS in a safety-critical environment. • Knowledge of Safety PLCs and safety-rated control systems. • Experience with scripting languages (Python, PowerShell) for automation and testing. • Familiarity with Agile development practices and version control systems (e.g., GitLab). • Understanding of NEC, UL 508A, and electrical safety standards. • Previous experience in the theme park or amusement industry. • California PE license or willingness to obtain. Education Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field from an ABET-accredited program. Preferred: Master of Science in a technical discipline or MBA. #DISNEYTECH #LI-AF2 The hiring range for this position in Anaheim, CA is $138,900 - $186,200 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending 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.