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Amusement Ride Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Valleyfair LLC

Ride Operations

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$17/hr

Operate and monitor amusement rides safely. Ensure guests follow safety guidelines and procedures. Perform routine safety checks and inspections. Assist guests with boarding and exiting rides.

Valleyfair LLC

Ride Operations

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$17/hr

Operate and monitor amusement rides safely. Ensure guests follow safety guidelines and procedures. Perform routine safety checks and inspections. Assist guests with boarding and exiting rides.

Valleyfair LLC

Ride Operations

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$17/hr

Operate and monitor amusement rides safely. Ensure guests follow safety guidelines and procedures. Perform routine safety checks and inspections. Assist guests with boarding and exiting rides.

Adena Corporation

NCCCO Crane Operator

Lakeland, FL · On-site

... amusement ride structures. Safety, precision, and teamwork are central to how we operate. We are ... Operator to support steel erection and rigging operations across Florida. Adena Corporation ...

Adena Corporation

NCCCO Crane Operator

Lakeland, FL · On-site

... amusement ride structures. Safety, precision, and teamwork are central to how we operate. We are ... Operator to support steel erection and rigging operations across Florida. Adena Corporation ...

AREA15

Attractions Operator

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

Operate amusement rides and attractions in accordance with established safety policies, procedures, and operating standards. Monitor attraction systems and ride operations to ensure the safety of ...

AREA15

Attractions Operator

Las Vegas, NV

Operate amusement rides and attractions in accordance with established safety policies, procedures, and operating standards. * Monitor attraction systems and ride operations to ensure the safety of ...

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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 Sep 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 is an amusement ride operator?

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 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 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.

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What states have the most Amusement Ride Operator jobs?

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Amusement Ride Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Amusement Ride Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 49% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,070 per year, or $13.5 per hour.

RECREATIONAL RIDE & LIFT INSPECTOR

State of New Hampshire

Concord, NH • On-site

$28.74 - $38.85/hr

Part-time

Medical

Re-posted 20 days ago

State Of New Hampshire rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states

Job description

Stateof New Hampshire Job Posting
Department of Safety
Division of Fire Safety
Tramway & Amusement Ride Safety
33 Hazen Drive
Concord NH 03305
PART TIME
Recreational Ride & Lift Inspector
Position #TMPPT5159
$28.74/hour - $38.85/hour
The State of New Hampshire, Department of Safety, Division of Fire Safety, Tramway & Amusement Ride Safety, has a part-time vacancy for a Recreational Ride & Lift Inspector, SOC Title 53-6050 TRANSP INSPECTORS-1. This position is part-time, cannot exceed 29.5 hours per week and does not offer health insurance benefits.
Summary:
To inspect passenger tramways and carnival or amusement rides, air supported structures, and amusement attractions and perform safety tests to assure continued safe operation and compliance with federal, state and manufacturer's codes.
YOUR EXPERIENCE COUNTS: Each additional year of approved formal education may be substituted for one year of required work experience and/or each additional year of approved work experience may be substituted for one year of required formal education.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education/Experience: Equivalent combination of 5 years of education and experience after completion of high school. Education must be in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and operations, maintenance, or inspections of tramways, tows, aerial lifts, ski jumps, amusement rides, or related devices.
License/Certification: Valid driver's license or access to transportation
Other Requirements: 1. Must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check and motor vehicle record check in order to ensure suitability for exposure to confidential information.
2. The Inspector shall not engage in the sale of any article or device relating to ski lifts and recreational rides or their appurtenances.
Trainee Option: Not applicable
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Ability to ski is strongly recommended
AFTER-HIRE REQUIREMENTS: None
CAREER ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES:
In-Band Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No Criteria:
Broad Group Level Advancement Available: ☐ Yes ☒ No Criteria:
DISCLAIMERS:
The supplemental job description lists the essential functions of the position and is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. An employee may be required to perform other related duties not listed on the supplemental job description provided that such duties are characteristic of that job title.
The work of an employee in trainee status in this position shall be overseen by a fully qualified individual. An employee in trainee status shall meet the minimum qualifications within the period of time specified on the SJD, not to exceed one year of being hired into this position.
Responsibilities:
Conducts inspections of passenger tramways and carnival or amusement rides, air supported structures, and amusement attractions to determine if equipment is in safe and proper working order.
Attends required dynamic tests of passenger tramways as assigned and makes recommendations as needed.
Registers passenger tramways and carnival or amusements rides, air supported structures, and amusement attractions.
Visits sites of proposed new passenger tramway installations as assigned to physically inspect construction and assembly.
Investigates accidents and incidents as assigned and analyzes accident and incident reports related to passenger tramways and carnival or amusement rides, air supported structures, and amusement attractions to determine recommendations for prevention of recurrences.
Informs passenger tramway, carnival or amusement rides, air supported structure, or amusement attraction owners of critical parts which need to be repaired, replaced or modified as identified by manufacturer and other sources.
Enforces the rules, policies and operating codes of the Tramway Safety Board, as well as the statutes regulating carnival-amusement rides and devices.
Prepares reports of inspections and maintains records of all registrations and inspections conducted.
For further information please contact Brian Allard, Assistant Director/Deputy Fire Marshal, at brian.h.allard@dos.nh.gov or 603-223-4289.
EOE
TDD Access: Relay NH1-800-735-2964

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