Servos
Servos are small motors that help create movement in props, costumes, and animatronics. Think of them as the muscles that make props move in a controlled way. They're commonly used in movie props, theme park attractions, and theatrical productions to make things like animated characters blink, puppet arms move, or doors open automatically. When prop makers mention servos, they're talking about these motion-control devices that can make precise movements based on instructions from a control system.
Examples in Resumes
Designed and built animatronic dinosaur heads using Servos and control systems
Integrated Servo Motors into interactive museum display pieces
Maintained and repaired Servo systems in theme park animatronic characters
Typical job title: "Prop Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Prop Technicians
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you approach designing a complex animatronic character that needs to perform multiple movements simultaneously?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss planning the movement requirements, selecting appropriate servo types for different motions, considering weight distribution, and implementing reliable control systems. They should mention experience with coordinating multiple servo movements and troubleshooting complex systems.
Q: What factors do you consider when choosing servos for a project that will run continuously in a theme park?
Expected Answer: Should discuss durability requirements, maintenance schedules, heat management, backup systems, and proper servo sizing for continuous operation. Should mention experience with industrial-grade components and reliability considerations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you ensure smooth and realistic movement when using servos in props?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic motion programming, speed control, acceleration/deceleration curves, and how to prevent jerky movements. Should demonstrate understanding of timing and coordination of movements.
Q: What's your process for maintaining servo-driven props during a long-running show?
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular inspection schedules, common wear points, lubrication needs, and preventive maintenance practices. Should mention documentation and backup plans.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic components of a servo system?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the motor, control circuit, and feedback mechanism in simple terms. Should understand basic concepts of power requirements and control signals.
Q: What safety considerations do you take when working with servo-powered props?
Expected Answer: Should mention basic electrical safety, mechanical pinch points, emergency stops, and proper power management. Should demonstrate awareness of basic safety protocols.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic servo installation and wiring
- Simple motion control programming
- Basic prop maintenance
- Understanding of safety procedures
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex motion programming
- Troubleshooting servo systems
- Multiple servo coordination
- Prop repair and maintenance
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced animatronic design
- Complex system integration
- Project leadership
- Custom control system development
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with actual servo installation
- Lack of basic safety knowledge
- No understanding of motion control principles
- Unable to demonstrate basic maintenance skills
