Walt Disney Imagineering

Job ID 10124364 Location Glendale, California, United States Business Walt Disney Imagineering

Job Summary:

About the Role & Team

“Any sufficiently complex technology is indistinguishable from magic.” - Arthur C. Clarke

At Imagineering, we are constantly exploring new ways to connect with our guests – to surprise them, make them smile, and open their minds to magic - not just in our parks and resorts, but everywhere around the world.

At Walt Disney Imagineering Research and Development this "magic" emerges from the application of world-class technology and everything from new Guest-facing experiences to new tools for Imagineers and Cast Members who power our parks and bring that magic to life. Our team of engineers, designers, artists and scientists share a passion for solving impossible problems and building ground-breaking experiences.

At Disney Research Imagineering, we pursue and apply the science behind the magic: unlocking new opportunities for Imagineering in all aspects of project lifecycles, from early phase creative ideation to deployment.

The Role

We are seeking a Research Scientist to lead foundational and applied research at the intersection of artificial intelligence and spatial media. This role involves designing, developing, and deploying cutting-edge generative models to support creative, architectural, and experiential design workflows across Disney’s themed entertainment portfolio.

As a key scientific contributor and thought leader, you will collaborate with cross-functional teams of researchers, engineers, and creatives. Your work will span exploratory investigations, peer-reviewed research, and the translation of experimental technologies into applied tools for design and fabrication.

You will report to the Associate Lab Director and contribute to the AI/ML research strategy for Imagineering R&D.

This role is full-time.

What You Will Do

• Conduct original research in generative AI, focusing on 3D model generation, scene synthesis, and simulation.
• Develop machine learning architectures and algorithms that enhance the creation, visualization, and physical realization of themed environments.
• Prototype AI-driven systems that support CAD/BIM workflows, virtual production, and spatial design.
• Integrate AI with real-time rendering engines, 3D modeling pipelines, and mixed-reality platforms.
• Evaluate generative models for feasibility, fidelity, controllability, and integration into creative pipelines.
• Collaborate with internal and external research partners, including academic institutions, industry labs, and vendors.
• Translate scientific insights into working prototypes that bridge digital design and physical implementation.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to the technical direction of AI initiatives within the lab.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 5+ years of research experience in machine learning, computer vision, or computational graphics with published work in top-tier conferences/journals (e.g. SIGGRAPH, NeurIPS, CVPR, and others).
• Expertise in generative 3D AI technologies such as NeRFs, diffusion models, implicit neural representations, or volumetric rendering.
• Proficiency in machine learning libraries (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow) and programming languages such as Python and C++.
• Experience working with 3D asset creation and rendering tools (e.g., Blender, Unreal Engine, Unity, Houdini).
• Deep understanding of data-driven design tools and interactive AI systems for spatial computing or immersive storytelling.
• Demonstrated ability to bridge theoretical research with real-world implementation.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to present complex ideas to multidisciplinary teams.
• A desire to work in a creative environment where technical and creative experts collaborate and challenge each other every day to achieve truly groundbreaking solutions

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with robotics, digital fabrication, or construction automation as it relates to AI integration.
• Experience with AI-assisted tools in architecture, entertainment, or XR applications.
• Background in physical simulation, procedural modeling, or multimodal (text-to-3D) generation.
• Track record of technology transfer, patents, or deployed AI systems.
• Experience with generative models for animation, such as motion transformers, motion diffusion models, variational motion encoders, or reinforcement learning for animated control.
• Experience integrating animation systems into real-time engines (e.g., Unreal Engine with Control Rig, Unity with Mecanim or custom solutions).
• Familiarity with motion capture data pipelines, retargeting techniques, and animation blending.
• Demonstrated ability to bridge technical research and production-quality animation systems, ideally through previous work in film, games, or immersive media.
• Contributions to open-source projects or prior internships in research labs or innovation teams.
• Interest in construction tech, architecture, or fabrication workflows is a plus.

Education

PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Computational Design, or a related field, with specialization in AI/ML or 3D graphics.

Additional Information

This role is located in Glendale, CA.

Benefits and Perks: 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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The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $167,700 to $224,900 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.

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 that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. 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 Research & Development, Inc., which is part of a business we call Walt Disney Imagineering.

WDI Research & Development, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.