Animatronic Controls Specialist

LF Studios; Hazelwood (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

LF Studios 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 while collaborating with clients worldwide.

The role requires travel for on-site installations, troubleshooting, and close work with mechanical engineers, creative leads, and project managers to ensure seamless integration and durability of systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from an accredited school.
• Experience using or willingness to learn the required software.
• Knowledge of codes related to electronic engineering.
• Proficient in CAD design and calculation software. Minimum 2 years in electrical engineering or related field.
• 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.
• Perform engineering tasks using CAD or engineering software.
• 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 coordination of manufacturing, installation, maintenance, documentation, support, and testing.
• Prepare specifications for purchases of electrical equipment and materials.
• Program and configure control architectures, with Weigl Controls experience a plus.
• 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.

Skills

Control system design

Programming control architectures

Troubleshooting

Team collaboration

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Weigl Controls

Job description

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.
• A 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.