Idlewild and SoakZone: Ride Operator

DNU - Festival Fun Parks, LLC (OLD); Ligonier (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible schedule

Cross-train across departments

Free admission to Idlewild and SoakZon

Exclusive employee events

Job summary

Idlewild and SoakZone seeks an outgoing Rides Operator to supervise and operate park rides, ensuring guest safety and enjoyment. You will greet guests, conduct safety checks, and assist with loading while maintaining a friendly, professional environment.

No minimum education is required and the iROC training will be provided. A flexible schedule, 16+ age requirement, and English language proficiency are required; multiple shifts including evenings, weekends, and holidays are available.

Qualifications

• 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 and there is no cost to the team member.

Responsibilities

• Greet and interact with guests in a fun and professional manner.
• Operate and supervise rides following safety regulations and park policies.
• Conduct morning inspections and test rides before opening to guests.
• Ensure proper wristband checks and height/age requirements for riders.
• Communicate directions and safety instructions using microphones or devices.
• Maintain safety and order on loading platforms and ride controls.

Skills

Safety-minded

Guest service

English fluency

Job description

About the Company

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®.

About the Role

We are looking for an outgoing and safety‑oriented Rides Operator to operate and assist with rides located throughout 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.

Responsibilities

• Greet and interact with guests in a fun and professional manner
• Enjoy interacting with guests of all ages
• Follow all Idlewild and SoakZone and manufacturer established safety regulations
• Operate 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
• Test 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
• Perform and enforce accurate height, weight, or age requirements for all rides and attractions
• Determine if each guest entering a ride is wearing the proper wristband
• Maintain flow of guests while limiting the number of guests on the loading platform
• Give directions and deliver 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
• Maintain constant vigilance while ride is operating and ensure that all riders follow appropriate safety measures
• Be alert and have quick reaction time to stop a ride properly in case of an emergency
• Perform opening and closing procedures for assigned rides
• Report ride related issues and mechanical failures to management and maintenance promptly
• Protect guest belongings and turn in lost and found items as soon as time allows
• Operate all required types of rides throughout Idlewild and SoakZone

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 16 years of age to comply with Pennsylvania 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 also 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 with a variety of motorized and chain‑driven rides and attractions
• Frequent exposure to 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

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible schedule
• Ability to cross‑train and learn unique skills across various departments
• Free admission to Idlewild and SoakZone, Kennywood, and Sandcastle on your days off, as well as free tickets for your family & friends
• Exclusive employee events throughout the season

EEO Statement

Herschend is an equal‑opportunity employer. We strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feels welcome, valued, and loved. All individuals are treated equally and with respect.