VP, Rides & Engineering

What you get to do:

Provide corporate oversight and direction throughout all phases of the selection, design development, engineering, procurement, installation, and on-going operation of amusement rides & devices for all SEA parks. Lead appropriate park disciplines in a collaborative effort to promote the continuous safe operation of all amusement rides & devices. Advance SEA’s interests by developing and maintaining key relationships within the amusement park industry. Provide corporate oversight and direction for design through implementation of specialized technical systems within SEA attractions.

• In close collaboration with the VP Attraction Design & Development, the VP of Engineering & Project Management, and other D&E team members, provide technical oversight and leadership for all new rides within SEA’s Attractions.
• Support new product development effort by researching ride related issues & alternatives, and thematic/special effects elements. Actively participate in concept development, schematic design, and design development for new SEA attractions.
• Organize and lead the cost estimating, bidding, and negotiating of contracts with ride and specialized system vendors, collaborating with SEA sourcing as required. Oversee installation, commissioning, and evaluation & acceptance process for rides and devices. Collaborate with park and corporate engineering, maintenance, park operations, creative, sourcing, entertainment, IT, and other project stake holders in order to ensure a holistic design and operational approach for SEA attractions. Support project managers, design consultants with coordination, design details, and other technical needs, as required for ride-related projects.
• Oversee the standardization of ride systems/operations across SEA parks. Provide technical leadership during ride ops/maintenance troubleshooting. Collaborate with park and corporate resources to improve the safety, security, efficiency, and reliability of ride systems within SEA parks. Organize and manage applicable technical design standards and master specs. Scrutinize specifications & details for ride and special effect systems.
• Provides oversight for electronic control systems used within SEA parks. Lead technical risk assessment and analysis efforts for rides. Responsibilities include staying up to date on current technologies associated with technical disciplines and guiding the risk analysis effort for SEA’s rides and attractions.
• Develop & maintain key industry relationships with amusement ride vendors and park owner/operators. Provide corporate oversight & direction to ensure appropriate representation of SEA at industry conventions, and on industry/government regulatory panels for amusement rides and devices, including ASTM International, IAAPA, and others as appropriate to discipline.
• Visit amusement/theme parks to review rides, remain current on latest products, & understand related best practices. Tour & inspect ride vendor facilities to assess operations and quality control.
• Directly manage Corporate Ride Engineer and Corporate Ride Controls Engineer

What it takes to succeed:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, or other related Engineering discipline.
• Minimum ten years combined experience in engineering, project management, or applicable technical experiences in a major theme park environment.
• Professional Engineering License preferred.
• Ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective plans and strategies.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals at all levels within the organization.
• Technical & functional knowledge of amusement rides and associated systems.
• Technical & functional knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Functional knowledge of specialty systems used within the theme park industry.
• Ability to travel extensively, domestically and internationally.
• Ability to lead a diverse group of technical and professional individuals, & flourish in a team environment.
• Excellent communication skills – oral & written.
• Strong organizational skills.