Senior Art Director – Art Studio, Disney Live Entertainment
Through innovative storytelling and a culture of collaboration, Disney Live Entertainment creates, produces, and delivers remarkable and engaging entertainment experiences across Disney theme parks, resort hotels, cruise ships, and other locations worldwide. The Art Studio team features art directors, concept artists/illustrators, technical directors, writers, lighting designers, choreographers, cosmetologists, and music producers who bring magical worlds to life with technical expertise, performance excellence, and spectacular spectacle.
Role Overview
The Sr. Art Director collaborates with the Art Studio and other key creative partners—including Show Directors, Technical Directors, and Marketing—to develop the visual storytelling language for live entertainment projects such as special events, character greeting environments, large stage shows, spectaculars, and parades. The position reports to the Manager – Art Studio and is a full‑time role.
Responsibilities
- Lead graphic artists, concept artists, illustrators, and scenic vendors, ensuring cohesive design intent across projects.
- Guide the development of design intent, coordinating with creative partners and supporting departments.
- Establish and maintain open, trust‑based relationships with key clients and supporting teams.
- Participate in and influence the creative development of projects, creating scenic art designs and facility infrastructure.
- Produce design intent drawings, five‑view detailed drawings, material selections, color call‑outs, and color elevations for production use.
- Provide leadership and art direction on site and direct vendors to meet Disney quality standards, ensuring proper documentation.
- Contribute to Art Studio budgets for element costs and labor, and stay current with industry trends, scenic innovation, and visual/graphic research.
- Produce supporting artwork for design, development, and presentation purposes.
- Conduct ongoing entertainment‑show quality evaluations to maintain original show intent.
Required Qualifications & Skills
- At least 7 years of experience in the theatrical or themed entertainment industry, with a background in show development and operation of live shows.
- Expert knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and theatrical scenic design.
- Strong hand‑drawing, sketching, and illustration abilities, with proficiency in drafting and reading technical drawings.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and handle logistics.
- Excellent collaboration, partnership, and communication skills.
- Positive, cooperative attitude and capability to mentor others with constructive feedback.
- Leadership skills, including problem solving, influencing, negotiating, and continuous improvement experience.
- Exceptional organizational, time‑management, and budgeting skills.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and maintain a safe, productive workplace.
- Flexibility to work weekends and holidays as required.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, CADTools, Vectorworks, and 3‑D programs such as Z‑Brush and Rhino.
- Understanding of Disney brand guidelines and experience applying them.
- Experience managing vendor relationships and ensuring Disney quality standards.
Education
- Required: BA in Theater Technology and Design, or related field, or equivalent work experience.
- Preferred: MFA or equivalent in Art/Theatrical Design.
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive salary range in Florida: $100,100 – $134,200 per year, subject to internal equity and candidate qualifications.
- Potential bonus and/or long‑term incentive units.
- Full range of medical, financial, and other benefits, including health and savings plans.
- Educational opportunities and unique Disney perks.
- For more information on benefits, visit Disneys benefits portal .