Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely. We are ...
This position requires strong leadership skills to answer questions and help coach and train other Ride Operators and Attendants for the operating season. This position will also conduct daily audits ...
This position requires strong leadership skills to answer questions and help coach and train other Ride Operators and Attendants for the operating season. This position will also conduct daily audits ...
Inspire ride operators by creating a positive and energetic atmosphere where safety and guest satisfaction are top priorities * Act as an approachable mentor and coach to all assigned Hosts * Ensure ...
Inspire ride operators by creating a positive and energetic atmosphere where safety and guest satisfaction are top priorities * Act as an approachable mentor and coach to all assigned Hosts * Ensure ...
Inspire ride operators by creating a positive and energetic atmosphere where safety and guest satisfaction are top priorities * Act as an approachable mentor and coach to all assignedHosts * Ensure ...
Inspire ride operators by creating a positive and energetic atmosphere where safety and guest satisfaction are top priorities * Act as an approachable mentor and coach to all assignedHosts * Ensure ...
Ensuressafe operation of the ride by always adhering to standard operating proceduresandestablishedtrainings * Maintains a sense of calmness and professionalismduringtense, escalated or emergency ...
Ensuressafe operation of the ride by always adhering to standard operating proceduresandestablishedtrainings * Maintains a sense of calmness and professionalismduringtense, escalated or emergency ...
Ensures safe operation of the ride by always adhering to standard operating procedures and established trainings * Maintains a sense of calmness and professionalism during tense, escalated or ...
Ensures safe operation of the ride by always adhering to standard operating procedures and established trainings * Maintains a sense of calmness and professionalism during tense, escalated or ...
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! AdventurelandPerks & Benefits:
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! AdventurelandPerks & Benefits:
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! Adventureland Perks & Benefits:
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! Adventureland Perks & Benefits:
Adventureland Park - Food and Beverage Cook
Altoona, IA · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
As an Adventureland employee, you can be the smiling face that greets incoming guests, a cook that makes things happen in the kitchen or a ride operator that keeps people entertained and safe.
Adventureland Park - Food and Beverage Cook
Altoona, IA · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
As an Adventureland employee, you can be the smiling face that greets incoming guests, a cook that makes things happen in the kitchen or a ride operator that keeps people entertained and safe.
Adventureland Park - Food and Beverage Cook
Altoona, IA · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
As an Adventureland employee, you can be the smiling face that greets incoming guests, a cook that makes things happen in the kitchen or a ride operator that keeps people entertained and safe.
Adventureland Park - Food and Beverage Cook
Altoona, IA · On-site
$13.50 - $18/hr
As an Adventureland employee, you can be the smiling face that greets incoming guests, a cook that makes things happen in the kitchen or a ride operator that keeps people entertained and safe.
RAGBRAI Ride Operations
Des Moines, IA · On-site
$45K - $50K/yr
... operating in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital ... Manage the RAGBRAI Crew, a group of 70+ individuals that assist with operations during the ride ...
RAGBRAI Ride Operations
Des Moines, IA · On-site
$45K - $50K/yr
... operating in the United Kingdom, we provide essential journalism, local content, and digital ... Manage the RAGBRAI Crew, a group of 70+ individuals that assist with operations during the ride ...
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! Team member benefits:
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! Team member benefits:
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! AdventurelandPerks & Benefits:
... ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights! AdventurelandPerks & Benefits:
Ride Operator information
See Iowa salary details
$7.45 - $8.27
2% of jobs
$8.27 - $9.09
2% of jobs
$9.09 - $9.91
10% of jobs
$10.55 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$9.91 - $10.74
14% of jobs
$10.74 - $11.56
14% of jobs
The median wage is $12.03 / hr.
$11.56 - $12.38
15% of jobs
$12.38 - $13.20
11% of jobs
$14.02 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$13.20 - $14.02
7% of jobs
$14.02 - $14.84
7% of jobs
$14.84 - $15.66
7% of jobs
$15.66 - $16.48
10% of jobs
$7
$12
$16
How much do ride operator jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for ride operator in Iowa is $12.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.62 and $14.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What Is the Job of a Ride Operator?
As a ride operator, your job is to operate rides at an amusement park, ensure the safety of guests, and assist with special events or initiatives. As a ride operator, you typically clean rides before, during, and after the day's activities, provide verbal instructions to guests, move between rides as needed, and remain focused on the job despite constant noise and other distractions. This job is sometimes seasonal, but many amusement parks are open year-round and have permanent ride operators on staff. Shifts for seasonal parks are often variable and may change from week to week to account for different amounts of guest traffic. Ride operators frequently walk, crouch, crawl, jog, lift heavy objects, and use aural and visual acuity to observe equipment and guests.
What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Ride Operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Ride Operator, you need attention to safety, situational awareness, and basic mechanical aptitude, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ride control panels, safety procedures, and occasionally CPR or first aid certification is typically required. Strong communication, customer service skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help Ride Operators stand out. These skills ensure guest safety, efficient ride operation, and a positive experience for park visitors.
What are some common challenges faced by Ride Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?
Ride Operators often face challenges such as handling large crowds, ensuring passenger safety, and responding quickly to unexpected situations like ride malfunctions or guest concerns. Effective management involves staying attentive at all times, following strict safety protocols, and maintaining clear communication with both guests and fellow team members. Regular training sessions and support from supervisors help operators stay prepared and confident in addressing these challenges, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
What are ride operators?
Ride operators are amusement park or fair employees responsible for safely operating rides and attractions. Their duties include checking safety restraints, giving instructions to guests, monitoring ride operation, and ensuring that all safety protocols are followed. Ride operators also assist guests with boarding and exiting rides and may be responsible for basic troubleshooting or reporting mechanical issues. Their primary goal is to provide a fun and safe experience for all visitors.
What is the difference between Ride Operator vs Amusement Park Attendant?
| Aspect | Ride Operator | Amusement Park Attendant |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma, safety training | High school diploma, safety and customer service training |
| Work Environment | Operate rides, ensure safety, monitor guests | Assist guests, manage queues, provide information |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Amusement parks, theme parks | Amusement parks, fairs, carnivals |
Ride Operators and Amusement Park Attendants both work in amusement settings, focusing on guest safety and experience. Ride Operators primarily operate rides and ensure safety protocols, while Amusement Park Attendants assist guests, manage queues, and provide customer service. Both roles require safety training and are essential for a smooth park operation.
More about Ride Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Ride Operator jobs in Iowa? For Ride Operator jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ride Operator jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Ride Operator jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Ride Operator jobs in IA? For Ride Operator jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Other
Posted 19 days ago
Job description
Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave-and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with 49 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.
While each brand offers something unique,all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating. Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service-what we call Heartspitality-the intersection of heart and hospitality.
As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect.
The ride of your life begins here! The outgoing and safety-oriented Rides Operator will operate and assist with rides located throughout the park. This position involves a lot of guest interaction and a customer service-oriented mindset to provide a wonderful experience to everyone who comes to enjoy a day at the park.Ride Operators are responsible for supervising, monitoring, and attending to park rides, including boarding, securing passengers, operating the ride, and ensuring passengers exit safely.
We are currently looking for a:
Adventureland Park - Ride Operator
Roles & Responsibilities:
- Greet and interact with guest in a fun and professional manner
- Must enjoy interacting with guests of all ages
- Follow all Adventureland Resort and manufacturer established safety regulations
- Operates assigned ride or attraction in accordance with company policy and procedure, state and federal regulations and safety protocols.
- Conduct morning inspections of assigned ride before daily operation begins
- Tests rides daily before opening to guests
- Answer questions related to ride operations and the park
- Maintain an environment that ensures the safety of all employees and guests
- Responsible for performing and enforcing accurate height, weight, or age requirements for all rides and attractions
- Maintains flow of guests and while also limiting the number of guests on the loading platform
- Gives directions and delivers instructions using a microphone or other communication devices
- Properly check all safety restraints to ensure they are in the correct and locking position before ride cycle begins
- Maintains constant vigilance while ride is operating and ensures that all riders all following appropriate safety measures
- Must be alert and have quick reaction time to stop a ride properly in case of an emergency
- Performs opening and closing procedures for assigned rides
- Reports ride related issues and mechanical failures to management and maintenance promptly
- Protects guest belongings turns in lost and found items as soon as time allows
- Ability to operate all levels of rides throughout Adventureland Resort
Education & Experience:
- There is no minimum education requirement.
- No previous experience is required.
- All Rides Team Members must go through the International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) course as a part of the training. Successful course completion is required for this position. There is no cost to the team member for the course.
Languages: Ability to read, write, and speak fluent English Spanish or other bilingual language skills are a plus.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years of age to comply with Iowa Child Labor Laws
- Ability to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Ability to comply with all uniform policies
- Must possess safety-oriented mindset and understand the importance of complying with all Federal, State, and local regulations regarding ride operation
- Must demonstrate a willingness to learn and ability to follow instructions
- Must be guest-focused and work well with other team members and supervisors
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, stoop, twist, kneel, bend, or squat for long periods of time
- Ability to reach above shoulders throughout the workday
- Ability to remain on feet for majority of the workday
- Ability to climb or descend stairs for some coasters, rides, and attractions
- Ability to carry, push, pull, lift, and hold objects weighing 30 pounds or more
- Ability to see details of objects that are more than a few feet away
Working Conditions:
- Frequent interaction a variety of motorized and chain-driven rides and attractions
- Frequent exposure to the variable outside temperatures, including high heat, cold, direct sun, humidity, dust, rain, snow, ice, and other weather conditions
- Frequent exposure to constant repetitive motion, high noise levels, flashing lights, vibrations, and heavily populated environments
Team member benefits:
Working at Adventureland is about making people happy! It's about being independent and having fun, making new friends and earning extra money while doing so. As a Adventureland employee, you can be the smiling face that makes a great first impression for incoming guests, a cook that serves up tasty treats and culinary delights, a lifeguard who soaks up the sun while keeping guests safe, or a ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights!
Adventureland Perks & Benefits:
Flexible schedule
Ability to cross-train and learn unique skills across various departments
Free admission to Adventureland Theme Park/Waterpark and other select parks on your days off
Invitations to exclusive company-sponsored employee events throughout the season
We've got great jobs for people just starting out in the workforce, looking for a second job or staying active after retirement. If you want a fun, flexible job with an innovative company, look no further than Adventureland Park. Apply today!
Do not miss the chance to spark your career now!