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Ride Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Maintain cleanliness and order in ride areas. Qualifications: Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities Ability to operate ride controls and safety equipment Attention to detail and safety ...

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L2 - Operator - TAS

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Autonomous Specialist is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail service to ...

L2 - Operator - TAS

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The Autonomous Specialist is responsible for operating and evaluating a self-driving vehicle in autonomous mode, including collecting data and providing feedback, and offering ride hail service to ...

Paul communities since 1995 with expertly and compassionately operated shared-ride and dial-a-ride services. They pride themselves on their attention to detail, ensuring that they customize the ...

Paul communities since 1995 with expertly and compassionately operated shared-ride and dial-a-ride services. They pride themselves on their attention to detail, ensuring that they customize the ...

Whether you own your own truck or are looking for a worry-free ride, Dart has the opportunity for you! Dart has been a great place for Owner Operators since 1934. We've designed our company to meet ...

Whether you own your own truck or are looking for a worry-free ride, Dart has the opportunity for you! Dart has been a great place for Owner Operators since 1934. We've designed our company to meet ...

Whether you own your own truck or are looking for a worry-free ride, Dart has the opportunity for you! Dart has been a great place for Owner Operators since 1934. We've designed our company to meet ...

Whether you own your own truck or are looking for a worry-free ride, Dart has the opportunity for you! Dart has been a great place for Owner Operators since 1934. We've designed our company to meet ...

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Ride Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$7

$13

$17

How much do ride operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for ride operator in Minnesota is $13.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.06 and $15.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What qualifications do you need to be a ride operator?

Ride operators typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete on-the-job training to learn safety procedures and equipment operation. Good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important; some employers may require certification in safety or first aid.

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.

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. Good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are important, and some employers may require certification in safety or first aid.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Ride operators typically do not earn $4,000 per week; such high earnings are more common in specialized fields like sales, real estate, or certain skilled trades where commissions or bonuses are involved. High-paying jobs without a degree often require experience, certifications, or specific skills, and may include roles like commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or skilled tradespeople in construction or electrical work.

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 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 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 is the role of a ride operator?

A ride operator is responsible for operating amusement park rides safely and efficiently, ensuring all safety protocols are followed. They check equipment, assist guests, monitor the ride during operation, and respond to emergencies as needed. Good communication skills and attention to detail are important for this role.

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

AspectRide OperatorAmusement Park Attendant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, safety trainingHigh school diploma, safety and customer service training
Work EnvironmentOperate rides, ensure safety, monitor guestsAssist guests, manage queues, provide information
Employer & Industry UsageAmusement parks, theme parksAmusement 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.

What are popular job titles related to Ride Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Ride Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ride Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Ride Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Ride Operator jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Ride Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Ride Operator jobs in MN? For Ride Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Ride Operator job openings in Minnesota as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,492 per year, or $13.2 per hour.
Nickelodeon Universe Ride Operator

Nickelodeon Universe Ride Operator

Mall of America

Bloomington, MN • On-site

$16.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Mall of America rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

PURPOSE: To provide the best possible service to guests while safely operating mechanical and non-mechanical rides and attractions. Embody and support our company mission, vision, and values.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:
  • Provide exceptional guest service by greeting and conversing with guests and determining their needs.
  • Operate mechanical and non-mechanical rides and attractions following MOA procedure as trained.
  • Able to communicate with guest efficiently, sometimes while simultaneously performing other duties and during challenging situations.
  • Assist with the loading and unloading of guests on the rides.
  • Properly enforce all height and rider safety requirements and scan guests' tickets.
  • Ensure that all guests are properly restrained prior to the start of the ride cycle.
  • Carefully monitor the safety of the guests inside and outside of the ride during the entire ride cycle.
  • Use the microphone to communicate instructions or concerns with guests.
  • Ensure the overall safety of guests while on the ride as well as in the ride area.
  • Communicate with guests about chaperone and rider safety policies.
  • Provide excellent guest service when handling guest questions, concerns, and managing ride areas.
  • Regularly work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Participate in daily operation audits and supervision observations.
  • Cross train with other MOA departments and willing to assist with other departments when needed.
  • Maintain a clean, organized workspace and assist with the cleanliness and appearance the of the Park.
  • Maintain a professional and enthusiastic demeanor when interacting with guests.
  • Maintain a professional and presentable appearance, in accordance with MOA appearance standards.
  • Work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, holidays, and high-volume days.
  • Additional duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Must have excellent verbal communication skills.
  • Must be detail oriented and able to multi-task.
  • Must be observant and safety minded.
  • Strong problem solving skills.
  • Previous guest service experience preferred.
  • Previous experience in the amusement industry preferred.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:
While performing the duties of this job, the team member will frequently be required to speak and listen to guests in order to understand their needs and communicate a solution. Team member must also possess a level of hearing that will continuously allow them to be aware of their surroundings and recognize when a guest needs their attention. Specific vision abilities required by this job include frequent close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Team members are required to be able to tolerate multiple sensory stimuli at once while performing their duties. These stimuli may include: loud auditory/noise, smells/olfactory, bright lights, colors, motion, and other visual stimuli.
  • Walk: Frequently, about 70% of the time
  • Stand: Frequently, about 70% of the time
  • Sit: Rarely, about 10% of the time
  • Bend/Stoop: Occasionally, about 50% of the time
  • Kneel/Squat: Infrequently, about 25% of the time
  • Climb: Rarely, about 10% of the time
  • Lift/Carry
    • Less than 10lb: Infrequently, about 15% of the time
    • 11-25lb: Infrequently, about 15% of the time
    • 26-50lb: Rarely, about 10% of the time
    • Over 50lb: Rarely, about 10% of the time
  • Push/Pull, up to 40lb: Occasionally, about 50% of the time
  • Twist: Occasionally, about 50% of the time
  • Reach above shoulders: Rarely, about 10% of the time
  • Reach at or below shoulders: Frequently, about 70% of the time
  • Reach at/below waist: Occasionally, about 50% of the time
  • Dexterity: Frequently, about 80% of the time
    • Use of both hands is required to operate rides

Mall of America is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are to be made without regard to race, color, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, genetic information, pregnancy, national origin, citizenship, physical/mental disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Pay is based on many aspects which vary based on position. These include labor markets and, in some instances, may include education, work experience and certifications. In addition to your pay, Mall of America is passionate about the future of our team members, we want to ensure you have a wealth of support and resources, to care for yourself and your loved ones. Our one-of-a-kind job perks for most team members include, team member discounts, free Nickelodeon Universe ride passes, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program, generous tuition reimbursement, and FREE Metro Pass Universal Pass. Mall of America offers eligible team members and their dependents comprehensive health benefits and programs, which may include medical, vision, dental, life insurance and more, to help you and your loved one's care for your whole selves. Other benefits for eligible team members include 401(k) match, short term disability, long term disability, paid parental leave, and paid vacation. Find competitive benefits from financial and education to well-being and beyond at Job Perks + Benefits | Mall of America®

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