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Amusement Ride Engineer Jobs in Newark, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Amusement Ride Engineer information

See Newark, NJ salary details

$62.2K

$94.7K

$160.5K

How much do amusement ride engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for amusement ride engineer in Newark, NJ is $94,650.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $109,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Amusement Ride Engineer vs Amusement Ride Technician?

AspectAmusement Ride EngineerAmusement Ride Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in safety and designTechnical training, certifications in maintenance and safety
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, testing facilities, construction sitesAmusement parks, maintenance workshops, on-site repairs
Employer & Industry UsageDesign firms, amusement parks, manufacturing companies

Amusement Ride Engineers focus on designing, testing, and ensuring the safety of rides, requiring engineering credentials. In contrast, Amusement Ride Technicians perform maintenance, repairs, and inspections on rides, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the amusement industry but differ in responsibilities and work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Amusement Ride Engineers in ensuring ride safety and reliability?

Amusement Ride Engineers often face the challenge of balancing innovative ride design with strict safety standards and regulatory compliance. They must regularly perform detailed inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure rides operate smoothly and safely, while working within tight deadlines, especially during peak park seasons. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams, such as maintenance staff, manufacturers, and safety inspectors, is essential to quickly resolve technical issues and implement upgrades. Staying up-to-date with emerging technologies and evolving safety codes also presents an ongoing learning curve in this dynamic field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Amusement Ride Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Amusement Ride Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical, electrical, or structural engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and professional licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, safety analysis tools, and industry standards such as ASTM F24 is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure the safety, reliability, and innovative design of amusement rides, protecting both riders and park reputations.

What does an Amusement Ride Engineer do?

An Amusement Ride Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining amusement park rides and attractions. They ensure that rides are safe, reliable, and comply with all relevant safety standards and regulations. Their work also includes troubleshooting mechanical issues, overseeing ride installations, and performing regular inspections to ensure continued operational safety. Collaboration with architects, manufacturers, and regulatory bodies is also a key part of the role.
What are popular job titles related to Amusement Ride Engineer jobs in Newark, NJ? For Amusement Ride Engineer jobs in Newark, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Amusement Ride Engineer job openings in Newark, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $94,650 per year, or $45.5 per hour.
Maintenance Technician II - Amusement Park Rides

Maintenance Technician II - Amusement Park Rides

Mall of America

East Rutherford, NJ • On-site

$28/hr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Mall of America rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

American Dream, developed by Triple Five Group, is an unparalleled mix of world-class entertainment, retail, and dining, comprising more than 3 million square feet just minutes away from New York City in East Rutherford, New Jersey. American Dream is home to leading attractions, including DreamWorks Water Park, Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, SEA LIFE Aquarium, Big SNOW Ski Hill, Dream Wheel - a 300-foot observation wheel overlook the NYC skyline, as well as attractions debuting soon such as The Game Room Powered by Hasbro and G.I. Joe Laser Tag. American Dream's immersive luxury shopping and dining experience - The Avenue - features Saks Fifth Avenue, Hermès, Saint Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana, Carpaccio, a fine-dining Italian restaurant, and much more. The retail collection is further expanded with flagship locations for Aritzia, H&M, PRIMARK, Uniqlo, Sephora and Zara; as well as the Toys R Us global flagship, the only standalone location in the U.S, and the world's first and only "candy department store," IT'SUGAR.
For more information on American Dream, visit www.americandream.com or find us on Instagram @americandream and TikTok @americandream_official.
KEY OBJECTIVE(S):
The main purpose of the Rides Maintenance Tech II is:
  • Ensure safe and efficient operation of rides and equipment during new installations, scheduled maintenance or unscheduled maintenance in the Amusement Park and Water Park.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Perform new equipment installations in compliance with all applicable standards.
  • Complete ride opening inspections and repairs as assigned.
  • Maintain knowledge of repairs and maintenance to all rides.
  • Respond to trouble calls in a timely and professional manner.
  • Complete and maintain all required documentation.
  • Maintain and repair equipment and facilities within Nickelodeon Universe.
  • Ensure the overall safety of the immediate work area as well as surrounding areas.
  • Provide outstanding internal and external guest service at all times.
  • Exercise effective use of parts and supplies.
  • Participate in capital and special event projects throughout the year.
  • Properly document and communicate relevant information and problems.
  • Maintain effective and professional communication with management and co-workers.
  • Assist in training all new employees.
  • Provide information and research for parts, equipment and vendors.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • 2-year technical degree in a mechanical/electrical field.
  • 5+ years of related experience.
  • Practical knowledge of principles and practices of the maintenance or construction field.
  • Expert knowledge in one or more of the following disciplines: electrical, pneumatics, fabricating, mechanical, hydraulics, welding, machining, and electronics.
  • Previous knowledge and safe use of a variety of related electrical equipment and/or tools preferred.
  • Current Level 1 certification from a nationally recognized safety organization (AIMS, NAARSO, etc.) preferred or willingness to take examination and pass.
  • Proficient oral and written communication required.
  • Practical knowledge of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
  • Working knowledge of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) protocols and comfort working at height.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
  • Perform repetitive motion- infrequently 10% of time
  • Stand - frequently 90% of time
  • Walk - frequently 90% of time
  • Sit - 10% of the time
  • Reach at, or above shoulder level- frequently 50% of time.
  • Reach at or below shoulder level 50% of the time
  • Kneel and bend- frequently 50% of time
  • Stoop/squat- frequently 50% of time
  • Push and Pull - 15% of the time
  • Climb stairs and ladders 20% of the time
  • Lift/Carry between 10-75 lbs. occasionally 25% of time
  • Able to work at heights between 35-200 ft infrequently 30 % of time

American Dream is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are to be made without regard to race, color, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, physical/mental disability, military status or any other basis prohibited by law.

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