How to Get a Job at an Amusement Park

Whether you are a high school student looking for a fun summer job, a college graduate who needs a stepping-stone into the professional world, or a retiree who wants more interaction with people and a little extra income, working at an amusement park may be your answer. These typically seasonal jobs range for the traditional “thumbs up” roller-coaster workers to behind-the-scenes office jobs. Amusement parks often scramble to fill these positions, but there are things you can do to increase your chances of getting the job you want.

Things You'll Need

• Resume
• List of former employers and school addresses and phone numbers

Instructions

1. Consider both your needs and talents and the park. What are your interests? Are you a high school student with hopes of studying retail management in college? Then you may want a position in a park store. You may be a retired person with good people skills, and guest services may be your best fit. Do a little research to see what jobs are available in the park. Most amusement parks have websites with hiring sections. Also consider your limitations. If you are painfully shy, you want to avoid positions that spotlight you like park games. There are many behind-the-scene jobs that might suit you.

2. Remember that most parks’ big days are Saturday and Sunday. If weekend work is out of the question, an amusement park isn’t for you. Most workers over the age of sixteen will be expected to work some nights as well. If you are not in school, then you will probably be needed to work hard-to-schedule early spring and fall days when many teen workers will not be able to work. During your interview, make it clear if you have schedule limitations or if you are free to work anytime.

3. Consider the location. Most jobs will be at least partially outside, even if it is hot, cold or raining. Parks take special precautions to make sure that no employee is in danger, but you will be expected to endure being uncomfortable at times. There are usually limited office jobs, but even these employees will lend a hand in the park when needed.

4. Don’t confuse fun with being over-casual. While a suit would be inappropriate, so would dirty, torn or revealing clothing. Usually, khaki or nice denim pants or skirts are fine with a properly fitted shirt. Most parks like to convey a clean-cut image and will limit facial hair, piercings, tattoos and extreme hair styles.

5. Know that it’s often difficult for many of the bigger amusement parks to fully staff and maintain the staff for the entire season. Because of that, they may offer perks and bonuses that range from merchandise to end-of-season bonuses. Most of the time, these will be prominently displayed on the website or at the job fair, but it’s all right to ask too. Parks may also offer discounts on merchandise and food, tickets for friends and family, tickets to other area attractions and special employee parties. Generally, pay rates are not advertised, but ask about specific pay rates at the interview as well as insurance, pay increases and possible advancement if it interests you. Be aware that seasonal job pay falls under different laws, so ask about overtime pay and other limitations.

6. Be aware that many parks promote from within, so your job at a food stand at age 15 may turn into a management job later. Some older workers find satisfying second careers as well. Whatever your goal in working at an amusement park, you’ll make friends, have fun and have great stories to tell.

Tips & Warnings

• Most amusement parks begin hiring long before the season begins. Start looking in February or March for the biggest variety of jobs.

• Don't assume you have the job going into your interview. Be on your best behavior and don't use gum or tobacco products.

• If the position you want isn't available, check back often. Turnover in most amusement parks is usually quick.