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Ride operator
Ride operators are responsible for the safety of people using theme park and fairground rides. They check that people are safely secured in the ride and watch the ride at all times. They also make sure the ride is tidy and free from hazards. In this post, we answer the question 'what is a ride operator' and explain how to become a ride operator.
Also known as:
- Fairground ride operator
- Theme park ride operator
What is a ride operator?
If you're looking to discover what is a ride operator, start here – if you already know this and want to know how to become a ride operator, scroll down. Ride operators work at theme parks and fairgrounds. Those working in travelling fairgrounds move around from place to place and are involved in putting up and taking apart rides. Ride operators are responsible for the safety of the people using their ride. Before the ride is used each day, the operator does safety checks to make sure the ride is in good working order. They also make sure that the area they work in is clean, tidy and free of hazards. When allowing people onto the ride, the operator must make sure any height, weight or age restrictions are followed. They also make sure that safety belts or restraints are securely fastened. If relevant, ride operators remind riders to keep their arms and legs inside the ride. On some rides, they may need to give announcements or remind riders of rules regarding pregnant women or people with heart conditions.
Ride operators do not leave their ride while it is operating – they watch the ride and riders at all times. They stop the ride if there is a problem, and only start it again when the problem has been resolved. Any serious safety concerns are reported to a supervisor. Ride operators can be trained in a number of rides and are therefore likely to operate different rides at different times. They should always have knowledge of the ride they are operating. Operators are sometimes responsible for basic ride maintenance. At theme parks, they are often required to do things like pick up litter, assist customers with directions and generally be a “friendly face” of the park.
Personal qualities and skills
As a ride operator, you need:
- A very responsible attitude – rider safety is essential.
- Quick reactions, in case there is a problem on the ride you are operating.
- Clear communication skills.
- The ability to give good customer service by being friendly and outgoing.
- Tact, for the occasions you need to calm down unhappy customers, e.g. parents whose children do not meet height requirements.
- To be able to work as a part of a team, as well as spending time working alone.
- Commitment and flexibility.
Pay and opportunities
According to jobs site Glassdoor, ride operators working full-time hours can expect to earn between £18,000 and £23,000.
Ride operators normally work a full-time week. Many theme parks are open all days of the week, but usually close for a period over the winter. Travelling fairs usually open in the evenings and at weekends. Full-time, part-time and temporary work is available. Travelling fairs are more likely to recruit casual workers on a seasonal basis.
Opportunities for ride operators occur throughout the UK, with a large number in holiday resorts. In addition, there are around 200 travelling fairs in the UK. Employers include theme parks, leisure parks and visitor attractions.
Where are vacancies advertised?
Vacancies are advertised in local newspapers, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.
How to become a ride operator
Let's explore how to become a ride operator. You don’t usually need to have specific experience to do this job. However, previous work in areas such as customer service or supervision could give you an advantage. You must be aged at least 18 to operate a ride.
Training will be provided by your employer. This could last for a few days and, as well as ride operation, is likely to include:
- Park/fair rules and regulations.
- Health and safety training.
- Fire training.
- Customer care.
- Evacuation procedures.
Operators are usually trained on a number of rides. A work-based qualification in mechanical ride operations is available.
With experience, it is possible to progress to supervisory positions. At theme parks, people in management positions often started out as ride operators.
Rehabilitation of Offenders Act: Working with children and young people aged under 18 in this career can be an exception to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. This means that you must supply information to an employer about any spent or unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings, if they ask you to. This is different from other careers, where you only have to reveal information on unspent convictions if you are asked to.
Qualifications
You do not usually need to have academic qualifications to do this job. However, some employers prefer you to have GCSEs.
Adult opportunities
Age limits apply to this occupation. You must be aged at least 18 to operate a ride.
Skills and abilities gained in a customer service role can be an advantage. Mechanical knowledge will also prove useful.
Most training is delivered on-the-job.
We hope this post has answered the question 'what is a ride operator' and that you now know how to become a ride operator. Use the links below to check out related roles.
