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Amusement Ride Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ride Operator This isn't just your next job - it's your opportunity to be part of an amazing team ... Prior amusement park operation experience * Are a Team Player with a guest first attitude * Are ...

Ride Operator

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$14/hr

RIDE OPERATOR This isn't just your next job - it's your opportunity to be part of an amazing team ... previous amusement park operations is a plus) * Aspire to our "Be FAIR" ideals: Be Friendly ...

RIDE OPERATOR This isn't just your next job - it's your opportunity to be part of an amazing team ... previous amusement park operations is a plus) * Aspire to our "Be FAIR" ideals: Be Friendly ...

Ride Operator This isn't just your next job - it's your opportunity to be part of an amazing team ... Prior amusement park operation experience * Are a Team Player with a guest first attitude * Are ...

This includes a variety of amusement rides such as Jan's Carousel, Cousin' Lauren's Racin' Pigs and ... Perform all safety checks prior to ride operation * Monitor guests and provide instructions during ...

This includes a variety of amusement rides such as Jan's Carousel, Cousin' Lauren's Racin' Pigs and ... Perform all safety checks prior to ride operation * Monitor guests and provide instructions during ...

This includes a variety of amusement rides such as Jan's Carousel, Cousin' Lauren's Racin' Pigs and ... Perform all safety checks prior to ride operation * Monitor guests and provide instructions during ...

Ensure all work complies with manufacturer guidelines, safety codes, and state/local amusement ride ... Work collaboratively with other maintenance personnel, ride operators, and supervisors to ensure ...

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Amusement Ride Operator information

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$7

$13

$17

How much do amusement ride operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for amusement ride operator in the United States is $13.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $15.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by amusement ride operators, and how can they be addressed?

Amusement ride operators frequently encounter challenges such as managing large crowds, ensuring rider safety, and responding quickly to unexpected situations like technical malfunctions or guest concerns. Staying alert, following strict operational protocols, and maintaining clear communication with supervisors and team members are key to overcoming these challenges. Operators are also trained to handle emergency procedures and must remain calm under pressure to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests.

What is the difference between Amusement Ride Operator vs Ride Attendant?

AspectAmusement Ride OperatorRide Attendant
CredentialsMay require safety certifications or trainingUsually minimal or no formal certifications needed
Work EnvironmentOperate rides at amusement parks, fairs, or carnivalsAssist guests, ensure safety, and manage queues
Employer & IndustryAmusement parks, fairs, entertainment venuesAmusement parks, water parks, entertainment venues

While both roles involve working in amusement settings, the Amusement Ride Operator primarily focuses on operating rides and ensuring safety during ride operation. The Ride Attendant typically assists guests, manages queues, and maintains safety protocols without operating the rides. Both roles require safety awareness, but ride operators often need specific certifications, making their responsibilities more technical.

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

To thrive as an Amusement Ride Operator, you need a basic understanding of safety protocols, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ride control panels, safety harness systems, and sometimes first aid certification are typically required. Strong communication, customer service orientation, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills. These skills and qualifications ensure guest safety, efficient ride operations, and a positive experience for visitors.

What are Amusement Ride Operators?

Amusement Ride Operators are professionals responsible for operating and supervising rides at amusement parks, carnivals, or fairs. Their duties include ensuring the safety of guests, checking that equipment is functioning correctly, enforcing height and safety requirements, and providing instructions to riders. They may also assist with boarding and exiting, handle emergency procedures, and offer friendly customer service. The role requires attention to detail, good communication skills, and a strong sense of responsibility for guest safety.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Amusement ride operators typically do not earn $4,000 per week without additional experience or supervisory roles. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include specialized trades like commercial pilots, certain sales positions, or skilled trades such as elevator installers, but these usually require certifications or extensive training. Most roles paying this amount without a degree are rare and often involve significant experience or specific skills.

How to be a theme park ride operator?

A theme park ride operator is responsible for operating rides safely and ensuring guest safety. Typically, this role requires good communication skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification in safety procedures or operating equipment. Training is usually provided on-site, and operators often work flexible hours including weekends and holidays.

How much do fair ride operators get paid?

Fair ride operators typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, with entry-level positions often paying around minimum wage. Experienced operators or those working at larger events may earn higher wages, and some positions offer overtime or bonuses. Certification in safety procedures and good customer service skills can influence pay rates.

How do you become a ride operator?

To become a ride operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training to learn safety procedures and equipment operation. Some employers may require certification in safety or first aid, and good communication skills are important for ensuring guest safety and compliance with regulations.
More about Amusement Ride Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Amusement Ride Operator jobs? Cities with the most Amusement Ride Operator job openings:
What states have the most Amusement Ride Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Amusement Ride Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Amusement Ride Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $28,070 per year, or $13.5 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Introduction

Maryland Department of Labor is currently accepting applications from qualified candidates for an Amusement Ride Inspector I position withinthe Division of Labor and Industry, Safety Inspection program.\r\n\r\n\r\nAs a member of the DLI team, you can have a fulfilling career, while also enjoying a wide range of benefits such as medical anddental coverage, paid time off (i.e. vacation, sick leave), becoming vested in the State pension, supplemental retirement options, andeven joining the Maryland State Employees Credit Union.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

GRADE

ASTD15

LOCATION OF POSITION

\r\n10946 Golden West Drive, Hunt Valley, MD 21031\r\n\r\n

Main Purpose of Job

Ensure the safety of the general public by conducting inspections and investigations related to setup and operation of amusement attractions operating in Maryland. Inspections are conducted applying the Annotated Code of Maryland; COMAR regulations, referenced codes, standards and manufacturer's specifications.

POSITION DUTIES

Training on amusement attractions at various locations throughout the State for compliance with applicable Laws, Regulations and Manufacturer's specifications. Working with amusement attraction owners to ensure proper setup of rides. Also perform strip-downs, annual, and setup inspections.\r\n\r\n\r\nPrepare and submit the required inspection activity reports on a timely basis (dictated by policy) which includes but not limited to: Daily Activity, Inspection Checklist, Safety Order Forms, Expenses, State Vehicle Fleet Sheet. Data collected and information contained in these reports will be used in preparing the quarterly and annual departmental reports.\r\n\r\n\r\nMaintain state issued equipment which includes but not limited to: vehicles, test equipment, personal protective equipment, cameras and video equipment, reference manuals, etc.\r\n\r\n\r\nMaintain or assist in maintaining a library of applicable manuals, codes, standards and regulations. This library is located at the main office, with copies provided for each inspector.\r\n\r\n\r\nPerforms other duties as assigned by management.\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate. \r\nExperience: Two years of experience in the construction, installation, repair, adjustment or inspection of amusement attractions, vertical, inclined and stairway chair lifts, personnel hoists, and related devices. \r\nNotes: \r\n1. Candidates may substitute additional experience performing safety inspections of amusement attractions and related devices for a federal, state or local regulatory inspection program or private entity performing similar work on a year-for-year basis for the required education. \r\n2. Candidates may substitute a minimum of five years of experience performing mechanical work for the education and experience requirements, provided they have knowledge and have provided work with: gears, motors, hydraulics, and pneumatics; electrical systems, wiring, and controls; braking systems, speed controls, and emergency stop mechanisms. Additionally, familiarity with tools such as calipers, torque wrenches, and ultrasonic testing equipment, as well as visual and non-destructive testing methods, is required. \r\n3. Candidates may substitute U.S. Armed Forces military service experience as a non-commissioned officer in General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement and Compliance classifications or General Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement and Compliance specialty codes in the Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement, and Compliance field of work on a year-for-year basis for the required experience. \r\n

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preference will be given to applicantswho possess the following preferred qualification(s).Include clear and specific information on your application regardingyour qualifications.\r\n\r\n\r\nExperience applying safety regulations, industry standards, and manufacturer specifications to identify hazards and assess compliance.\r\n\r\n\r\nExperience preparing clear, detailed inspection or investigative reports and communicating findings to stakeholders.\r\n

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

1. Employees in this classification may be assigned duties which require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees assigned such duties may be required to possess a motor vehicle operator's license valid in the State of Maryland. \r\n2. Employees in this classification must obtain and maintain Level I certification from the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials or equivalent through an accredited engineering or technical certification program before progressing to the Amusement Ride Inspector II level. \r\n

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in and, therefore, will be required to provide the employing agency with a telephone number where they can be reached. \r\n2. Employees in this classification are subject to substance abuse testing in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulations 17.04.09, Testing for Illegal Use of Drugs. \r\nAll candidates are subject to a background check against files maintained by the Division of Unemployment Insurance (LABOR/DUI) to determine whether any monies are owed to LABOR/DUI as a result of unemployment overpayment/fraud. Any unpaid debt may have an impact on whether or not a candidate is offered employment.\r\n

SELECTION PROCESS

Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.\r\n\r\n\r\nA resume may be attached as supplemental information; however, only the information provided in the application will be reviewed and considered in the evaluation process.\r\n\r\n\r\nAll information concerning the qualifications, including any required documentation (diploma, transcript, certificate, etc.) must be submitted and received by the closing date. Information submitted after this date will not be considered.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor positions that require Bachelor/Master Degree etc:\r\nEducational credentials from foreign countries must be evaluated by an approved education review service. This evaluation must be submitted prior to hire. For further information, you may call International Consultants of Delaware, Inc. (302) 737-8715 or World Education Services Inc. 1-800-932- 3897 or (202) 331-2925.\r\n

EXAMINATION PROCESS

The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.\r\n\r\n\r\n***Please note that your answers on the supplemental questionnaire must correspond to the information provided on your application to receive credit.\r\n

BENEFITS

This is a full-time, permanent position and eligible for full State benefits, which include:\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Flexible hours\r\n Paid holidays 12-13 per year\r\n Generous paid leave package (annual, sick, personal and compensatory leave)\r\n State Pension ('defined benefit' plan)\r\n Tax-deferred supplemental retirement savings plans (401(k) and 457)\r\n Comprehensive, subsidized health, dental and prescription plans with little to no deductibles, freegeneric prescriptions, and free preventative health services\r\n Flexible Spending Account plans for Health Care and Daycare\r\n State Employees Credit Union\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo learn more, please click this link:STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS\r\n\r\n

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

U.S. Military Veterans may qualify for additional bonus points towards certification. Any job offer will be contingent on the candidate providing a U.S. Military form DD 214 verifying honorable discharge from service prior to starting employment (and may be requested prior to interview). Permanent State employees do not need to submit proof of Veterans' status. If you are unable to apply online, or encounter difficulty attaching required or optional documentation, you may submit via email to brianna.freeman1@maryland.gov. Please be sure to include your name, identification number (Easy ID#) and job announcement number on any documentation to ensure timely processing.\r\n\r\n\r\nPLEASE DO NOT FAX OR EMAIL UNSOLICITED DOCUMENTATION.\r\n\r\n\r\nCompleted applications, required documentation, and any required addendums may be mailed to:\r\n\r\n\r\nMaryland Department of Labor Office of Human Resources\r\n\r\n\r\nAttn: 26-003250-0002 AR Inspector I/BF\r\n\r\n\r\n100 S. Charles Street\r\n\r\n\r\nBaltimore, MD 21201\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTTY Users: call via Maryland Relay\r\n\r\n\r\nThe MD State Application Form can be found online.\r\n\r\n\r\nMaryland Department of Labor is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of MDOL that all persons have equal opportunity and access to employment opportunities, services, and facilities without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, disability or veteran status.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Employment Type: Full-Time