Story Lead (Project Hire)

Project Writer (Project Hire)

Walt Disney Imagineering

Glendale, CA

Job Summary

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force that imagines, designs, and brings to life all Disney theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. Working across a spectrum of disciplines that range from creative and conceptual to scientific and technical, Imagineers blend an innovative mixture of storytelling, art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences, memorable destinations, and innovative entertainment for families around the globe.

Storytelling and Innovation is at the heart of the work at Walt Disney Imagineering. Imagineers constantly push the boundaries of design and technology. As Imagineers, one of our greatest rewards is knowing that the experiences and environments we create inspire others. The diversity of expertise at Imagineering makes us uniquely capable of influencing positive change in our communities and around the world. And knowing that we have helped make a difference is incredibly fulfilling and inspiring for all of us!

The Project Writer needed for the Story Development department is to work in partnership with project teams in the creation of new theme park attractions and related projects. In addition to high caliber creative writing skills, you should have knowledge of Disney motion picture and theme park stories, an understanding of the Disney storytelling approach, and the capacity to work well within a collaborative team structure.

You will report to a Story Manager.

This is a Project Hire position without any guarantee of permanent placement.

All candidates must include a cover letter with their submission.

Responsibilities/You Will

• Create or adapt original story concepts and develop them through research and the writing of overviews, outlines, treatments, scripts, and show information guides under the guidance of a senior member of the Story Development team and project teams.
• Brainstorm within project teams, generate notes from writers’ room sessions in organized and timely fashion and, as requested, help develop the story of a ride, environmental or media-based attraction, or related facility. \\
• Generate nomenclature, sign copy for supporting show and operational graphics, operational spiels, show dialogue, and cast member training materials.
• Manage story documentation throughout the life of the project.
• Work under tight deadlines, while maintaining individual creative integrity; communicate effectively at all levels in all disciplines.
• Be empowered to make creative choices, with frequent review from senior Story Development team members.
• Support company-wide communications as needed.
  
  
  

Basic Qualifications/You Will Have

• Minimum of 2 years in the entertainment industry as a writer for themed experiences; writer or writer's assistant for film, theater or television production; or other equivalent experience.
• Bilingual with verbal and written fluency in Mandarin and English.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in Mandarin and English.
• Have knowledge and understanding of modern Chinese culture.
• A solid understanding of story structure with ability to write strong dialogue, clear and concise copy, and descriptive prose.
• Ability to work independently on numerous projects of varying levels of complexity from concept to completion.
• Ability to write strong dialogue, have an understanding of story structure, and ability to produce detailed and descriptive prose.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interact in a working team environment, to receive and act upon constructive feedback, and to pursue creative excellence.
• Ability to brainstorm, strong presentation skills and skills as a proactive problem solver.
• Working knowledge in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint/Keynote and Final Draft; ability to learn new software such as graphics database.
  
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Cantonese language skills a plus.
  
  
  

Preferred Education

• BA or BS degree desired.
• Creative Writing, Playwriting, Screen Writing, Journalism or Communications studies preferred.
  
  
  

The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $94,200 to $126,200 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.