Controls Assistant Manager

Merlin; Winter Haven (FL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health care options

PTO

Merlin Magic Pass

Recognition programs

401(k) matching

Tuition reimbursement

Learning opportunities

Job summary

LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven, FL seeks a Controls Assistant Manager to lead ride controls and AV systems. You will guide a team of technicians, plan preventive maintenance, and drive safety and reliability across resort attractions.

You’ll work with the Senior Engineering & Controls Manager to optimize operations, support major projects, and recruit/train staff while ensuring compliance with industry standards and guest experience excellence.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of supervisory or management experience.
• Strong leadership and people development skills.
• Experience with PLCs and industrial control systems.
• Familiar with EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Modbus, EtherCAT, CIPAS-i, SERCOS.
• Experience troubleshooting low voltage electrical and automated control systems.
• Strong analytical and problem solving abilities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to safety.
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

Responsibilities

• Leading and developing a team of Ride Controls and AV Control Technicians.
• Planning and assigning daily work activities, preventive maintenance, and repair schedules.
• Managing work orders and asset information within the HxGN Enterprise Asset Management system.
• Supporting ride reliability, troubleshooting, and technical problem solving across resort attractions.
• Driving a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Assisting with technician recruitment, training, coaching, and performance management.
• Supporting major maintenance projects, ride modifications, and engineering initiatives.
• Serving as a technical resource during operational and emergency situations.
• Ensuring compliance with ASTM, OSHA, NFPA, OEM, and company safety standards.
• Collaborating with Operations and Technical Services teams to minimize downtime and enhance guest experiences.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Leadership

PLC/Industrial controls

EtherNet/IP

Profibus

Modbus

EtherCAT

CIPAS-i

SERCOS

Low voltage troubleshooting

Analytical skills

Safety mindset

High School Diploma

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Q-SYS

Nion Media Matrix

Alcorn McBride

Yamaha

GrandMA

Shure Audio Systems

CCTV systems

Network monitoring systems

Job description

What you’ll bring to the team

Controls Assistant Manager

LEGOLAND® Florida Resort | Winter Haven, FL

Lead the technology behind unforgettable guest experiences.

At LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, our attractions rely on cutting edge ride control systems, automation technology, audio/visual systems, and technical expertise to create amazing moments for millions of guests each year. We’re looking for an experienced Controls Assistant Manager to help lead our Controls team, ensuring our rides, attractions, and show systems operate safely, efficiently, and at peak performance.

This is an exciting opportunity for a technical leader who thrives in a fast paced environment, enjoys developing high performing teams, and is passionate about innovation, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience

What You’ll Do

As the Controls Assistant Manager, you’ll partner closely with the Senior Engineering & Controls Manager to oversee the daily operation, maintenance, and performance of ride control and AV systems across the resort.

• Leading and developing a team of Ride Controls and AV Control Technicians
• Planning and assigning daily work activities, preventive maintenance, and repair schedules
• Managing work orders and asset information within the HxGN Enterprise Asset Management system
• Supporting ride reliability, troubleshooting, and technical problem solving across resort attractions
• Driving a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Assisting with technician recruitment, training, coaching, and performance management
• Supporting major maintenance projects, ride modifications, and engineering initiatives
• Serving as a technical resource during operational and emergency situations
• Ensuring compliance with ASTM, OSHA, NFPA, OEM, and company safety standards
• Collaborating with Operations and Technical Services teams to minimize downtime and enhance guest experiences

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a hands on leader who can successfully balance technical expertise with team leadership.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of supervisory or management experience
• Strong leadership and people development skills
• Experience with PLCs and industrial control systems, including:Allen Bradley, Siemens, Beckhoff
• Knowledge of automation and communication protocols such as:EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Modbus, EtherCAT, CIPAS-i, SERCOS
• Experience troubleshooting low voltage electrical and automated control systems
• Strong analytical and problem solving abilities
• High attention to detail and commitment to safety
• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal training or certification in PLC programming, controls, automation, or computing
• Experience with: Q-SYS, Nion Media Matrix, Alcorn McBride, Yamaha, GrandMA, Shure Audio Systems, CCTV and network based monitoring systems
• Lean Six Sigma or other continuous improvement training
• Familiarity with ASTM, OSHA, NFPA, ANSI, ETCP, and entertainment industry safety standards

Physical & Work Environment

This position requires a combination of technical, leadership, and field based responsibilities. Candidates should be comfortable:

• Working both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Walking throughout the resort and accessing attraction areas
• Climbing ladders and elevated work locations
• Lifting and moving equipment weighing 25+ pounds
• Working flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed to support operations

Benefits

• Excellent health care options (medical, dental, and vision that encourage preventative care).
• Outstanding Paid Time Off (PTO) that allows for adventure, rest, relaxation, or recuperation.
• Merlin Magic Pass for friends and family to enjoy the parks & attractions
• Recognition Programs and Rewards
• 401(k) program with company match
• Tuition reimbursement programs
• Numerous learning and advancement opportunities

Pay Range

Competitive