Senior Build Lead - Animatronics (12 month fixed-term)
We’re Weta Workshop – a design and manufacture facility making imaginary worlds a reality… from creatures to costumes, make-up to miniatures, weapons, vehicles, worlds and more! Our crew strive each day to push the boundaries of what can be achieved with physical effects.
Our Animatronics team have worked on a number of great projects - and we're now seeking a Senior Build Lead – Animatronics to join us for 12 months to work across 3 more exciting projects.
It’s a hands-on role, bridging the engineering bench and the workshop floor - interpreting technical drawings, driving DFM and DFA feedback back to the engineering team, and getting complex animatronic builds physically together with precision and care.
Day to day, you’ll be:
Executing the mechanical assembly of advanced humanoid and creature animatronics, ensuring fit, finish, and function meet the design intent.
Interpreting detailed technical drawings, GD&T, BOMs, and multi-level CAD assemblies to plan, sequence, and de-risk builds.
Critiquing engineering models and directly modifying engineering CAD models where necessary
Documenting and notating builds thoroughly to ensure builds are repeatable and serviceable.
Identifying any issues and resolving them with engineers quickly.
You can find out all the other details in our job description here.
We need someone with proven experience in the mechanical assembly of complex, precision mechanisms (robotics, animatronics, prototypes, motion control, or equivalent).
You’ll also be able to show you have:
A strong ability to read and interpret technical GD&T, and multi-level CAD assemblies
Working proficiency in OnShape, or at least one major CAD package
Solid understanding of DFM and DFA principles, with a demonstrated track record of providing constructive, well-reasoned feedback to design engineers
Hands-on workshop skills with hand tools, power tools, precision measuring instruments, and bench fitting techniques
You’ll also need excellent attention to detail and a well-documented approach to assembly and notation.
Additional info
This is a 12-month fixed term role, based in Miramar, Wellington.
You can reach out to recruitment@wetaworkshop.co.nz for further details.
Applications close 13 August 2026
If we can do anything to accommodate you during the recruitment or interview process, please let us know.
Successful applicants will undergo background checks as part of our recruitment process.