Job Description

The Assistant Manager, Special Effects is a pivotal role within the Entertainment Technical Teams, responsible for providing comprehensive support in the technical execution and production of all special effects, show action equipment, puppets, and animatronic elements for seasonal and event-based entertainment. Reporting directly to the Manager of Special Effects, this role requires a strategic mindset, excellent leadership abilities, and a strong focus on operational efficiency, documentation, and upholding our world-class standards.

JOB DUTIES

• Collaborate with the Manager of Special Effects in overseeing delivery from concept and prototyping through fabrication, installation, and maintenance, ensuring alignment with creative and technical adherence to established standards and procedures.
• Support the development and execution of strategies for all special effects and animatronic scopes in collaboration with internal SFX teams, Art & Design partners, Project Management, USH partners, and contracted vendors.
• Development of detailed project outlines (scopes of work), requests for proposals (RFPs), evaluation of bids, recommendations for selecting vendors, and detailed project installation schedules; manage each of these project components.
• Act as a liaison between department stakeholders, providing regular updates, addressing concerns, and facilitating effective communication channels.
• Assist in the supervision and development of the SFX team, providing guidance, feedback, and mentorship to enhance performance and foster professional growth; ensure tasks are delegated effectively and executed to meet quality standards.
• Contributes to the enhancement of operational processes and workflows, identifying areas for improvement and implementing strategic solutions in collaboration with the Manager and cross-functional teams.
• Lead site supervision during on-site installation work for equipment setup, testing, inspections, and activities that affect the venue. Work with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ), building inspectors, and environment, health, and safety team members (EHS).
• Monitor project timelines and milestones, identifying potential risks or issues, and implementing corrective measures as needed to ensure project success.
• Supervise vendors in the design, fabrication, testing, and installation of equipment. Confirm their work meets technical standards, safety codes, and matches the project’s creative goals.
• Manage design changes and scope adjustments, ensuring accurate documentation, approvals, and cost tracking.
• Provide operational support during live events and productions, coordinating logistics, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring seamless execution.

This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks. Learn more about the benefits offered by NBCUniversal by visiting the Benefits page of the Careers website. Salary range: $70,000 - $80,000

Qualifications

• 1-3 years’ experience with entertainment production or project management, particularly special effects, animated figures, and show action equipment.
• Strong leadership with ability to direct teams with limited information and constant change.
• Solid in-field installation experience in an entertainment / theme park environment.
• Deep understanding of entertainment production workflows.
• Excel in fast-paced, accelerated production environments.
• Working knowledge of stage practices, equipment, and technologies.
• Confidence to effectively communicate across all lines of business.
• Strong awareness of Environmental Safety standards, and ADA.
• Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and nights as required.
• Proficiency in project management principles, with experience in planning, organizing, and executing complex initiatives.
• Proficient in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Sketchup, REVIT, Bluebeam, Wrike, Microsoft Office and Adobe Suite

DESIRED CHARACTERISTICS

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to guide teams through ambiguity and compressed schedules.
• Ability to translate creative intent into executable technical solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex vendor relationships and multidisciplinary teams.
• Skilled at balancing creative, technical, financial, and operational priorities.
• Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize, meet deadlines, and manage changing priorities.

KEY COMPETENCIES

Leadership: Demonstrated ability to inspire, motivate, and lead a team towards achieving common goals. Proven experience in providing direction, support, and mentorship to team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

Strategic Thinking: Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess complex situations, identify key issues, and develop strategic plans and solutions. Capable of anticipating future needs and proactively addressing challenges to ensure the successful execution of SFX initiatives.

Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively convey ideas, instructions, and feedback to diverse audiences. Proficient in building and maintaining relationships with internal and external stakeholders, facilitating open and transparent communication channels.

Project Management: Solid understanding of project management principles, including resource allocation, scheduling, budget management, and risk assessment. Experience in coordinating multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring timely delivery within scope and budget constraints.

Creativity and Innovation: Innovative thinker with a creative mindset and a passion for storytelling and immersive experiences. Ability to collaborate with designers, artists, and creative teams to develop unique and engaging SFX designs that enhance the overall guest experience.

Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex issues, identify root causes, and develop practical solutions. Adaptable and resourceful, capable of navigating challenges and making informed decisions under pressure.

Adaptability: Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities, deadlines, and business needs. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, with the ability to quickly adjust plans and strategies to meet evolving requirements.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail, with a focus on ensuring the highest standards of quality in SFX fabrication, installation, and maintenance. Thorough in conducting quality control checks and implementing corrective measures as needed.

Collaboration: Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including designers, technicians, vendors, and external partners. Experience in building strong working relationships, resolving conflicts, and driving consensus to achieve common objectives.

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

NBCUniversal will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories, or arrest or conviction records, in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative For Hiring Ordinance, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act, where applicable.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to AccessibilitySupport@nbcuni.com.