Walt Disney Imagineering's Technology Studio develops the software platforms and tools that power how Imagineers design and deliver world-class experiences. We are seeking an Executive, AI Platform Engineering to lead a transformative initiative: building the AI-first platform that will fundamentally change how Imagineering creates.
In this role, you will own two critical mandates. First, you will architect and deliver the AI platform that transforms Imagineering's design and delivery workflows—bringing modern AI capabilities directly into the hands of Imagineers. Second, you will lead the adoption of AI-powered developer infrastructure across WDI's software teams, radically improving engineering velocity and quality. You will inherit an existing engineering team while building out new capabilities, partnering closely with Disney Research and Advanced Development to bridge cutting-edge research with production-ready systems. The ideal candidate is a visionary builder who has scaled AI platforms before, brings an entrepreneurial mindset, and can rally teams around a new paradigm.
Position Responsibilities
Define and execute the vision and roadmap for WDI's AI-first software platform, transforming how Imagineers design and deliver experiences
Lead the implementation of AI-powered developer tools and infrastructure across WDI software teams
Translate emerging AI capabilities into production-ready platform features that accelerate creative and engineering workflows
Establish standards and best practices for AI-assisted development, improving engineering velocity and code quality
Evaluate and integrate AI coding assistants, automated testing, and intelligent CI/CD capabilities
Drive investment strategy and resource planning for AI platform initiatives
Inherit and grow a high-performing engineering organization, recruiting top talent to expand platform capabilities
Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and rapid iteration
Partner closely with Disney Research and Advanced Development to transition cutting-edge research into production systems
Collaborate with Product Management to align platform capabilities with Imagineering priorities and user needs
Engage with software development groups across WDI to drive adoption and gather feedback on AI infrastructure initiatives
Build relationships with external technology partners and vendors to accelerate platform development
Basic Qualifications
Minimum of 10+ years of experience in software engineering, platform development, or related technical fields
Proven track record of building and scaling AI/ML platforms or infrastructure
Experience leading and growing engineering teams, including hiring and developing technical talent
Strong technical expertise in AI/ML systems, cloud platforms, and modern software architecture
Demonstrated ability to translate research and emerging technologies into production-ready systems
Experience driving organizational change and technology adoption across multiple teams
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
Strong strategic thinking and ability to balance long-term vision with near-term execution
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or Artificial Intelligence
Experience in entertainment, media, or creative technology industries
Familiarity with AI-assisted developer tools and workflows
Background partnering with research organizations to productize emerging technologies
Required Education
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or equivalent
The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $228,700 to $306,700 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.
