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Amusement Ride Engineer Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

Amusement Ride Engineer information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$60K

$91.3K

$154.9K

How much do amusement ride engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for amusement ride engineer in Philadelphia, PA is $91,333.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an amusement ride engineer?

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 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 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 qualifications do you need to be an amusement ride engineer?

Amusement ride engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. Relevant skills include knowledge of safety standards, design software, and experience with mechanical systems; professional engineering licensure is often required or preferred. Strong problem-solving abilities and understanding of industry regulations are also important.

What are popular job titles related to Amusement Ride Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA?

For Amusement Ride Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Amusement Ride Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Amusement Ride Engineer jobs in Philadelphia, PA are:

What cities near Philadelphia, PA are hiring for Amusement Ride Engineer jobs?

Cities near Philadelphia, PA with the most Amusement Ride Engineer job openings:

Rides and Equipment Mechanic

West Berlin, NJ • On-site

Diggerland USA
Traveler Accommodation • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Diggerland USA provides a maintenance environment unlike a traditional amusement park or repair facility. Our Maintenance Team works with a unique combination of real construction machinery, amusement attractions, water park equipment, vehicles, and support systems. The Rides & Equipment Mechanic plays an essential role in ensuring these attractions and machines remain safe, properly maintained, reliable, and ready for operation.

We are seeking an experienced, safety-focused, and dependable Rides & Equipment Mechanic to join our Maintenance Team. This hands-on position is responsible for the inspection, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, installation, and repair of Diggerland USA's diverse equipment, including amusement rides, construction equipment, diesel- and gas-powered machinery, water park equipment, pumps, trucks, trailers, and other park systems and equipment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Inspect, maintain, troubleshoot, diagnose and repair amusement rides, attractions, construction equipment, vehicles, and other park machinery.
  • Perform daily equipment inspections using established checklists.
  • Maintain diesel- and gas-powered engines, motors, pumps, hydraulic systems, mechanical components, and electrical systems.
  • Perform preventive and scheduled maintenance to ensure rides and equipment remain safe, reliable, and operational.
  • Read and interpret diagrams, sketches, operating manuals, manufacturer instructions, and engineering specifications when troubleshooting equipment and attractions.
  • Locate and diagnose mechanical or safety concerns by observing equipment in operation, listening for unusual noises and identifying abnormal movement, wear, leaks, damage or other irregularities using appropriate diagnostic tools.
  • Inspect parts and components for wear, damage, condition, and integrity.
  • Safely remove, repair, or replace defective components using appropriate hand and power tools.
  • Must properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow established safety procedures, including lockout/tagout procedures when applicable.
  • Complete work orders accurately, including documenting inspections, repairs performed, and parts used.
  • Maintain accurate maintenance and inspection records.
  • Maintain tools, equipment, work areas, and the maintenance shop in a clean, safe, and orderly condition.
  • Assist Operations with ride or equipment issues occurring during park operating hours.
  • Promptly report equipment conditions, safety concerns, and repairs needed to the Maintenance Manager and Rides Manager.
  • Respond promptly to ride or equipment breakdowns to diagnose problems and safely return equipment to operation when appropriate.
  • Perform minor fabrication and welding as needed and within the employee's training and experience.
  • Follow all Diggerland USA safety policies, procedures, manufacturer requirements, and operational standards.
  • Perform additional maintenance-related duties as assigned based on park operational needs.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in mechanical or equipment maintenance, automotive or diesel repair, heavy equipment, amusement ride maintenance, or a similar field preferred.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Working knowledge of mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and basic electrical systems.
  • Ability to diagnose mechanical issues, troubleshoot equipment, and perform repairs safely and efficiently.
  • Experience using hand tools, power tools, diagnostic equipment, and other maintenance tools.
  • Ability to read and follow equipment manuals, manufacturer specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance instructions.
  • Welding and minor fabrication experience preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to identify potential mechanical and safety concerns.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of the Maintenance Team.
  • Must be able to follow established maintenance procedures, inspection requirements, manufacturer specifications, lockout/tagout procedures when applicable, and all Diggerland USA safety policies.
  • Must demonstrate sound judgment and a strong commitment to workplace and guest safety.

SCHEDULE & AVAILABILITY REQUIREMENTS

Diggerland USA's operating schedule varies throughout the season. Maintenance needs may occur before, during, and after regular park operating hours.

  • Be available to work weekdays and weekends when the park is operational.
  • Have schedule flexibility based on park operations and maintenance requirements.
  • Be available for early-morning or after-hours maintenance when necessary.
  • Respond to emergency ride or equipment maintenance situations when scheduled or required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Must be able to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, reach, and perform other physical activities for extended periods while performing job duties.
  • Must be able to safely access and work on, under, and around rides, construction equipment, and machinery, including climbing ladders and platforms, working at elevated heights, and working in confined or restricted spaces.
  • Must possess sufficient balance, coordination, strength, and mobility to safely access equipment and perform assigned duties.
  • Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds independently, with heavier items requiring appropriate assistance or lifting equipment.
  • Must be able to safely use hand tools, power tools, and maintenance equipment.
  • Must be able to perform job duties throughout the park property and access assigned work areas as needed.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and temperatures.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

  • Health Insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision)
  • 401(k) with matching
  • Paid Time Off
  • Reciprocal Ticket Program
  • Free Park Admission

Diggerland USA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.