Animatronic Controls Specialist

LF Studios / LifeFormations; Blue Ash (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

LF Studios in Ohio is seeking a Controls Specialist to design, program, and optimize control systems for animatronics and entertainment robotics. You will integrate electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic motion systems, travel to client sites, and collaborate with engineers and project teams to deliver reliable demonstrations.

The role requires a bachelor's in EE, CAD proficiency, and a willingness to travel. We value hands-on problem solving and experience with control architectures; Weigl controls

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from an accredited school.
• Experience in using or a desire to learn the required software.
• Knowledge of applicable codes related to electronic engineering.
• Proficient in CAD design and calculation software.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in electrical engineering or related field.
• A solid understanding of pneumatics, electric motors, and circuits.
• Willingness to travel for installations and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement control systems for animatronics, integrating mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Operate CAD/engineering software to support design and analysis.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineers, creative leads, and project managers for seamless integration.
• Use CAD to design control layouts, schematics, and component assemblies.
• Ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements through manufacturing, installation, maintenance, documentation, support, and testing activities.
• Prepare specifications for purchases of electrical equipment and materials.
• Program and configure control architectures; Weigl controls experience is a strong advantage.
• Build enclosures and electromechanical systems optimized for durability and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve complex circuitry and control challenges.
• Travel to client sites for installations, troubleshooting, and technical support.
• Adapt to evolving project scopes with creative problem-solving and innovative solutions.

Skills

Electrical engineering

Pneumatics

Electric motors

Circuits

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering

Tools

CAD software

Calculation software

Weigl Controls

Job description

At LF Studios, we push the boundaries of storytelling through cutting-edge animatronics and entertainment robotics. LF specializes in the design and fabrication of animatronic figures, sculpted elements, exhibits, and interactive experiences. Our work can be found internationally in leading theme parks, museums, science centers, and branded spaces. We’re searching for a Controls Specialist with a deep technical background who can adapt to evolving creative demands and engineer next-level entertainment experiences.

About Us

At LF Studios, we push the boundaries of storytelling through cutting-edge animatronics and entertainment robotics. LF specializes in the design and fabrication of animatronic figures, sculpted elements, exhibits, and interactive experiences. Our work can be found internationally in leading theme parks, museums, science centers, and branded spaces. We’re searching for a Controls Specialist with a deep technical background who can adapt to evolving creative demands and engineer next-level entertainment experiences.

The Role

As a Controls Specialist, you’ll design, program, and optimize control systems for animatronics and entertainment robotics. You'll integrate electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic motion systems while ensuring efficient and reliable performance. This role requires travel for on-site installations, troubleshooting, and collaboration with clients worldwide.

What You’ll Do

• Design and implement control systems for animatronics, integrating mechanical, electrical, and software components.
• Perform a wide range of engineering tasks by operating computer-assisted design or engineering software and equipment.
• Work closely with mechanical engineers, creative leads, and project managers to ensure seamless integration.
• Utilize CAD software to design control layouts, schematics, and component assemblies.
• Ensure compliance with specifications, codes, or customer requirements by coordinating manufacturing, installation, maintenance, documentation, support, and testing activities.
• Preparing specifications for purchases of electrical equipment and materials.
• Program and configure control architectures, with proficiency in Weigl Controls being a strong advantage.
• Build enclosures and electromechanical systems optimized for durability and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve complex circuitry and control challenges.
• Travel to client sites for installations, troubleshooting, and technical support.
• Adapt to evolving project scopes with creative problem-solving and innovative solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from an accredited school.
• Experience in using or a desire to learn the required software.
• Knowledge of applicable codes related to electronic engineering.
• Proficient in CAD design and calculation software.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in electrical engineering or related field.
• A solid understanding of pneumatics, electric motors, and circuits.
• Willingness to travel for installations and troubleshooting.

The Things That Give You An Edge

• Hands-on experience with circuitry, troubleshooting, and problem-solving in a production environment.
• Programming ability for control system optimization (Weigl controls experience is a plus!).
• Experience working with high-profile clients and IP holders a plus.
• A passion for animatronics, robotics, and entertainment technology.

For more information about LF Studios, please visit www.lfstudios.com.