Assistant Manager, Special Effects

NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our global theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film and television studios, including Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the Universal Studio Group banner, and operate industry-leading theme parks and experiences around the world through Universal Destinations & Experiences, including Universal Orlando Resort, home to Universal Epic Universe, and Universal Studios Hollywood. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit www.nbcuniversal.com for more information.

Our impact is rooted in improving the communities where our employees, customers, and audiences live and work. We have a rich tradition of giving back and ensuring our employees have the opportunity to serve their communities. We champion an inclusive culture and strive to attract and develop a talented workforce to create and deliver a wide range of content reflecting our world.

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 Ben…