Head of Entertainment Controls & Automation
VAI Resort
Phoenix, AZThis is a Full Time Job
Position Specifics:
Location: Onsite in Glendale, Arizona
Schedule: Full-time, exempt, Management
Salary: Starting at $90,000 annually
What You'll Do:
• Be a key leader in the VAI Resort Entertainment Production Team, responsible for preparing all automation systems for go-live.
• Supervise testing, integration, vendor coordination, and early-stage show programming during pre-opening.
• Lead and manage a talented team of automation techs-recruiting, training, and building a culture of collaboration and excellence.
• Create and implement procedures for consistent, safe, and efficient system operations across multiple venues.
• Partner with the Senior Technical Operations Manager to develop training standards and system documentation.
• Help design and execute load-ins, show changeovers, and automation updates for ongoing performances.
• Develop long-term maintenance schedules and inspection plans to keep everything running like a well-oiled machine.
• Champion safety standards and regulatory compliance, including OSHA guidelines.
• Contribute to a supportive and high-energy backstage environment that reflects the spirit of VAI.
What You Bring:
• 5+ years managing advanced entertainment automation systems in theater, touring, or large-scale venues.
• Expert knowledge of Navigator Control Systems and live performance automation technologies.
• Experience with programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining complex control systems.
• Familiarity with show design and production timelines in high-intensity environments.
• Comfortable balancing strategic leadership and hands-on execution.
• An obsession with safety-and the certifications to prove it (OSHA 30 required).
• A true team player who lives the VAI CORE values: Collaboration, Ownership, Resilience, Enthusiasm.
Physical Requirements:
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and safely work in varied environments, including high elevations and outdoor heat.
• Dexterity and stamina to manage physical tasks related to system maintenance and show operations.
• Visual and auditory acuity necessary for precision equipment use and safe backstage communication.
*Note: This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with it. Duties and responsibilities may be subject to change.
Salary/Benefits
$90,000.00
- 110,000.00
per year
• Be a Day One legend-build the magic from the ground up.
• Competitive pay and a full suite of benefits: medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, life insurance & more.
• Work on world-class automation tech in a never-before-seen resort concept.
• Collaborate with the best in the business, from artists and engineers to visionaries and innovators.
• Leave your mark on a groundbreaking destination that's redefining entertainment.
Additional Information
VAI Resort is a premier entertainment resort conveniently located in Glendale, AZ, at the heart of Metro Phoenix. VAI will be Arizona's largest hotel, entertainment, and culinary destination. VAI will redefine the concept of a full-service resort hotel by delivering a multi-faceted experience featuring four hotel towers, with 1,100 rooms, suites, and villas, 11 signature restaurants - including the destination's first Bar Mar by Jose Andres - Konos Island, a luxury spa, indoor theater, rides, attractions, curated retail and art installations. The property will also feature first-to-Arizona attractions, including a 130-foot-high Konos Sky Bar and the world's first Mattel Adventure Park, as well as a 2,000-person capacity indoor multi-level theater and concert venue, and the first-of-its-kind VAI Amphitheater, a music and entertainment venue featuring an 11,000-seat, state-of-the-art stage. Led by the VAI Global Development team, VAI will be the manifestation of a dream to create the world's most iconic resort.
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