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Ride Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Mall of America

Ride Operator

East Rutherford, NJ · On-site

$15.95/hr

The Ride Operator engages with all guests to provide the best possible service and experience while performing all the required functions to safely operate mechanical and non-mechanical rides and ...

The Funplex

Ride Operator

East Hanover, NJ · On-site

$15.92/hr

Shut down ride if major repairs are needed. * Space rides operated in cars or sections to avoid danger of collisions. * Clean up debris around ride. * Keep an eye on patrons and their movements to ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$17/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$17/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Hawthorne, NJ · On-site

$18/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Lodi, NJ · On-site

$18/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Fair Lawn, NJ · On-site

$18/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Middletown, NJ · On-site

$18/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

Summit Wash Holdings

Entry Ride Operator

Paterson, NJ · On-site

$17/hr

The Entry Ride Operator is the conductor and entertainer for our members while making sure all vehicles are being processed safely and efficiently into the car wash tunnel. The Entry Ride Operator ...

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Ride Operator information

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$8

$14

$19

How much do ride operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for ride operator in New York is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ride operator?

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 does a ride operator do?

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 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.

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.

How much do you get paid to be a ride operator?

Ride operators typically earn between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on the location, experience, and employer. Some amusement parks may offer higher wages or additional benefits for experienced operators or those working peak seasons.

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 understand 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.
More about Ride Operator jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Ride Operator jobs in New York?

The most popular types of Ride Operator jobs in New York are:

What are popular job titles related to Ride Operator jobs in New York?

For Ride Operator jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ride Operator jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Ride Operator jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for Ride Operator jobs?

Cities in New York with the most Ride Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Ride Operator jobs in NY?

For Ride Operator jobs in NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Ride Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ride Operator job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 53% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,709 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Ride Operator

Mall of America

East Rutherford, NJ • On-site

$15.95/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Mall of America rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Ride Operator engages with all guests to provide the best possible service and experience while performing all the required functions to safely operate mechanical and non-mechanical rides and attractions.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Ability to maintain focus while safely operating a variety of mechanical and non-mechanical rides and attractions, both independently and in groups.
  • Ability to safely operate heavy machinery.
  • Assist with safely loading and unloading guests on the rides.
  • Properly enforce all height and rider safety requirements and chaperone policy.
  • Ensure that all guests are properly restrained prior to the start of the ride cycle.
  • Monitor the safety of guests and co-workers inside and outside of the ride during the entire ride cycle.
  • Use microphone to communicate instructions or concerns to guests.
  • Positively interact both verabally and non-verbally with guests, ensuring an excellent experience.
  • Ensure the overall safety of guests on the ride and co-workers in the ride area while the ride is operational.
  • Ability to visually, and auditorily observe any safety and/or guest concern while operating the ride/attraction
  • Scan guests wristbands prior to them riding.
  • Guest greet at the entrance of ride while ride is closed or slow during downtime.
  • Maintain the cleanliness of the ride area by sweeping floors, wiping down the ride and emptying trash containers.
  • Ability to multi-task.
  • Ability to work in elevated locations.
  • Inspect equipment using visual and tactile methods as trained.
  • May perform the function of a custodian cleaning for Nickelodeon Universe or Rides.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Must have excellent verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to communicate and understand with the use of hand signals.
  • Must be detailed oriented, safety-minded, and observant.
  • Previous guest experience preferred.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS
  • Use of both hands
  • Perform repetitive motions - frequently, 90% of the time
  • Stand - frequently, 90% of the time
  • Walk - frequently, 90% of the time
  • Sit - infrequently
  • Reach at or below shoulder level - frequently 90% of the time
  • Reach at ir above shoulder level - occasionally, 30% of the time
  • Push/Pull - frequently
  • Kneel - frequently
  • Bend - frequently, 90% of the time
  • Stoop/Squat - frequently, 70%
  • Lift/Carry up to 10 pounds - occasionally, 30% of the time
  • Lift/Carry up to 30 pounds - infrequently, 10% of the time

American Dream 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, gender, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, pregnancy, national origin/ancestry, citizenship, physical/mental disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

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