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Ride Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NBCUniversal

Mgr Ride/Show Engineering

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$98K - $121K/yr

The Manager, Ride/Show Engineering provides technical management, inclusive of budget and schedule, for an attraction or attractions under an area of responsibility. Responsible for the successful ...

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$59.5K

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$153.5K

How much do ride engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for ride engineer in the United States is $90,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial positions, or possessing rare expertise and certifications.

What does a ride engineer do?

A ride engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and maintaining amusement park rides to ensure safety and proper operation. They often work with mechanical, electrical, and control systems, and must adhere to safety standards and regulations. The role may require technical skills, certifications, and attention to detail to prevent accidents and ensure ride reliability.

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

To thrive as a Ride Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and experience with ride design or theme park systems. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming, and safety compliance standards like ASTM F24 is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication help you excel in cross-functional environments. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safety, reliability, and innovation of amusement park rides.

What are some common challenges Ride Engineers face when maintaining and upgrading amusement park rides?

Ride Engineers often encounter challenges such as diagnosing complex mechanical and electrical issues, ensuring compliance with rigorous safety standards, and coordinating maintenance schedules to minimize ride downtime. They must quickly adapt to evolving technologies and work collaboratively with operations teams, electricians, and mechanics to resolve problems efficiently. Balancing preventative maintenance with urgent repairs, especially during peak park seasons, requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Ride Engineer vs Ride Technician?

AspectRide EngineerRide Technician
CredentialsEngineering degree or technical certification, specialized trainingTechnical diploma or certification, hands-on training
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and overseeing ride systems; office and manufacturing settingsMaintenance, repair, and troubleshooting on-site at amusement parks or facilities
Industry UsageUsed in design and development phases, ensuring safety and performance standards

Ride Engineers focus on designing, testing, and ensuring the safety of amusement rides, often working in offices or labs. Ride Technicians perform maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting on rides at parks or facilities. While both roles require technical knowledge, Ride Engineers typically hold engineering credentials and work in development, whereas Ride Technicians focus on operational safety and maintenance on-site.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most engineering roles do not reach a $500,000 annual salary, some highly specialized or senior-level engineers, such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineers in executive or leadership positions, can earn this level of compensation. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes work in high-cost-of-living areas or for large corporations.

How much do amusement ride engineers make?

Amusement ride engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers or those working on complex projects can earn higher salaries. Certifications in mechanical or electrical engineering and familiarity with safety standards are often required.

What are ride engineers?

Ride engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain amusement park rides and attractions. They combine knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and structural engineering to ensure rides are safe, reliable, and enjoyable for guests. Ride engineers work closely with architects, designers, and safety inspectors throughout the planning, construction, and operation phases. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting technical issues, performing regular safety checks, and implementing upgrades or repairs as needed.
More about Ride Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Ride Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ride Engineer jobs are:
Ride Engineer jobs near you
SFDK Entry-Level Ride Mechanic - $22.00/HR

SFDK Entry-Level Ride Mechanic - $22.00/HR

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Vallejo, CA • On-site

$22/hr

Part-time

PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Six Flags rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 525 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 56 rated theme parks

Job description

Overview
  • Hourly overtime eligible position and you get paid weekly!
  • Guaranteed hours, benefits eligible, and paid vacation days!
  • Learn valuable skills about rides and attractions.
  • Promotional and growth opportunities.
  • Work tools provided.
  • Exclusive Employee Perks Including a Membership to all Six Flags Parks.

Responsibilities
  • Maintain, erect, repair, and troubleshoot rides and attractions following Manufacturer and Engineering specifications to ensure their safe and efficient operation with supervision.
  • Perform daily inspections, maintenance, and repair of rides and attractions for safe operation utilities in the assigned area and notify management and or Engineering of any hazards, defects, and ride or guest related problems that may endanger the guest, staff and the general public.
  • Maintain OSHA Safety Standards, ride manufacturers, and Safety policies and procedures of Six Flags.
  • Conduct winterization and winter maintenance of ride units and stations in assigned area.
  • Ensure that all rides are clean and visually in compliance with manufacturer's specifications, and the expectations of our guests and management team.
  • Keep all records and documentation updated daily, accessible and organized.
  • Perform all other duties as required.

Qualifications
Skills and Qualifications
  • Must have 0-1 years of related experience and be able to work well in team environment.
  • Possess skills and proficient knowledge in two or more trades, from the following: mechanical, electrical, hydraulics, pneumatics, automotive, and/or welding/fabricate on and small engine repair.
  • Will be required to work various shifts as project and park needs dictate, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Ability to troubleshoot clearly, calmly and safely in the presence of guests, co-workers, and park management in a fast-paced environment.
  • Valid driver's license and be able to operate vehicles (including but not limited to forklifts, golf carts, cars, trucks).

Physical Requirements
  • Required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms, occasionally required to sit, climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; talk or hear, smell, and may frequently lift and/or move 100 pounds. Specific vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus required. Normal to average corrective hearing.
  • Must possess the mental and physical capacities necessary to perform the primary job duties, including climbing and working at heights up to and in excess of 150ft. Must be able to work outdoors in extreme temperatures. Must possess the physical dexterity to operate hand tools and motor vehicles.
  • Must possess strong safety sensitivity & ability to work with many different types of devices.

Safety Sensitive Position

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