Working at The Walt Disney Company is a dream for many. With its iconic legacy in entertainment, innovation, and storytelling, Disney offers diverse career opportunities across theme parks, media networks, film production, hospitality, technology, and corporate services. Whether you’re aiming for a role at Disneyland or Walt Disney World, in broadcasting, or on a corporate team, here’s how to land a job at Disney.
Step 1: Search for Open Positions
Start by visiting the official Disney Careers website (https://jobs.disneycareers.com/), where you can explore opportunities by location, job category, or brand (like ESPN, ABC, Pixar, Marvel, or Disney Parks). Disney offers roles in areas such as:
- Theme park operations (attractions, food service, guest relations)
- Entertainment and production
- Technology and digital innovation
- Finance, marketing, and HR
- Internships and Disney College Program
Select the position that best matches your experience, skills, and interests.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
To apply, you’ll need to create an account and submit a tailored resume and application online. Be sure to customize your resume to reflect the qualifications listed in the job posting. If you’re applying for a creative or entertainment role, include a portfolio or demo reel if applicable.
Step 3: Prepare for Assessments and Interviews
Many Disney roles, especially in customer-facing and creative areas, may include online assessments (personality or situational judgment tests). For corporate or technical roles, you may encounter skills-based assessments.
If selected, you’ll be invited to a phone, virtual, or in-person interview. Disney interviews are known for being behavior-based, so use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe past experiences.
Sample questions include:
- Why do you want to work for Disney?
- How would you handle a difficult guest?
- Tell me about a time you exceeded expectations at work.
Step 4: Follow-Up and Onboarding
After the interview, it may take a few days to weeks to hear back. If selected, you’ll receive a formal offer and begin Disney’s onboarding and training process, which is often detailed and role-specific.
Start practice today and improve your hiring chances
Average salaries at The Walt Disney Company
Disney Parks & Resorts (Hourly Roles)
| Position | Estimated Salary / Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| Cast Member (Park Operations) | $14 – $18/hour |
| Ride Operator | $15 – $19/hour |
| Food & Beverage Host | $14 – $18/hour |
| Merchandise Associate | $14 – $17/hour |
| Custodial Staff | $14 – $17/hour |
| Character Performer | $15 – $20/hour |
| Lifeguard | $15 – $18/hour |
Corporate & Administrative Roles
| Position | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Administrative Assistant | $45,000 – $60,000/year |
| HR Coordinator | $55,000 – $70,000/year |
| Marketing Specialist | $60,000 – $80,000/year |
| Financial Analyst | $65,000 – $85,000/year |
| Project Manager | $75,000 – $95,000/year |
Internships & Disney College Program
| Program | Estimated Compensation |
|---|---|
| Disney College Program | ~$14 – $16/hour + housing option |
| Professional Internships | $15 – $25/hour (varies by role) |
Common Walt Disney Company interview questions
Here are 12 common Walt Disney Company interview questions with sample answers, covering both customer-facing and corporate/creative roles:
1. Why do you want to work for Disney?
Answer:
I’ve always admired Disney’s ability to create magical experiences and unforgettable stories. Being part of a company that values creativity, innovation, and guest satisfaction would be a dream opportunity, and I want to contribute to that legacy.
2. How would you handle a guest complaint at the park?
Answer:
I would listen patiently, empathize with their concern, and do everything I can within company guidelines to resolve the issue. If needed, I’d involve a supervisor to ensure the guest leaves with a positive experience.
3. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a customer or coworker.
Answer:
At my last job, a family was frustrated because their order was wrong. I not only fixed it promptly, but also added a complimentary item and thanked them for their patience, which turned their mood around and led to positive feedback.
4. How do you handle pressure during busy periods?
Answer:
I stay focused, organized, and prioritize tasks. I also communicate clearly with my team to make sure we’re all on the same page. I’ve found that staying calm helps the team stay calm too.
5. Describe a time you had to solve a problem creatively.
Answer:
We ran out of promotional materials during an event, so I created handwritten thank-you notes and gave out extra samples. Guests appreciated the personal touch, and the manager praised our team’s quick thinking.
6. What does “creating magic” mean to you?
Answer:
It means going beyond expectations—making people feel special, noticed, and cared for. Whether it’s a smile, a solution, or a small gesture, it’s about turning an ordinary interaction into something memorable.
7. How do you work in a team environment?
Answer:
I enjoy collaborating and believe clear communication and mutual respect are key. I’m always willing to help where needed and value feedback to improve both individually and as a group.
8. How would you promote Disney’s values in your role?
Answer:
By consistently delivering high-quality service, staying positive, treating every guest with respect, and upholding the standards of storytelling and integrity that define Disney’s reputation.
9. How do you stay organized when juggling multiple tasks?
Answer:
I use task lists, set priorities based on urgency, and check in regularly with my team or supervisor. I also stay flexible to adjust when unexpected tasks arise.
10. Have you ever worked with a difficult coworker? How did you handle it?
Answer:
Yes, I focused on keeping communication open and respectful. I listened to their point of view, calmly shared my concerns, and we eventually found a compromise that worked for both of us.
11. How would you describe your communication skills?
Answer:
I’m a clear and confident communicator. I adapt my tone and message depending on the audience—whether I’m speaking with guests, teammates, or management—and always aim to be respectful and professional.
12. What do you hope to bring to Disney as an employee?
Answer:
I bring strong customer service skills, a passion for storytelling, and a commitment to excellence. I’m reliable, team-oriented, and excited to create magical moments for guests from around the world.
I worked at Disney full-time
This is the first job I have ever had where I feel happy.