Ride Maintenance Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of thrilling amusement park rides and attractions, the focus on ride maintenance technicians has never been more crucial.

As the world of amusement parks continues to evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can inspect, maintain, and ensure the safety of our thrilling rides is escalating.

But what does it truly mean to be a ride maintenance technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager in the process of defining the perfect candidate,
• Or just fascinated by the world of ride maintenance and safety,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a versatile ride maintenance technician job description template, tailored for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s get started.

Ride Maintenance Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Ride Maintenance Technicians work to ensure the safe and efficient operation of amusement park rides and attractions.

They are skilled in a variety of areas including mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic maintenance and repair.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Inspecting and maintaining rides and attractions for safety and functionality
• Diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic malfunctions
• Performing preventive maintenance to keep rides and equipment in safe operating condition
• Testing rides and equipment to verify safety and proper operation
• Completing daily inspection and maintenance reports
• Ensuring strict adherence to safety regulations and procedures
• Assisting in the installation and dismantling of rides and attractions
• Providing input on ride safety, maintenance, and repair procedures
• Ordering parts and supplies necessary for ride maintenance
• Assisting in emergency situations and evacuations

 

Ride Maintenance Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Ride Maintenance Technician to ensure the safety and functionality of our amusement park rides and attractions.

The successful candidate will be responsible for daily inspections, routine maintenance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and repairing faults timely and efficiently.

Ride Maintenance Technicians should demonstrate in-depth knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, and they must prioritize safety at all times.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct daily inspections of rides and attractions for safety and operational readiness.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and necessary repairs on amusement park rides.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical problems.
• Work closely with the operations team to ensure rides and attractions are safe for public use.
• Document all maintenance and repair work performed.
• Comply with all safety regulations and procedures, including the use of protective equipment.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Provide emergency repairs as necessary.
• Communicate any safety concerns to the management immediately.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Ride Maintenance Technician or a similar role in the maintenance field.
• Technical knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Ability to diagnose and repair equipment malfunctions.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to safety and quality.
• Ability to work at heights and in various weather conditions.
• Physical strength and stamina to perform demanding tasks.
• High School Diploma or GED. Additional certification in Mechanical or Electrical Maintenance is a plus.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Ride Maintenance Technician
• Work Environment: Outdoor amusement park setting with various weather conditions. Physical tasks and working at heights may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Maintenance Supervisor or Maintenance Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Ride Maintenance Technician Do?

Ride Maintenance Technicians are primarily employed by amusement parks and fairs to ensure the safety and functionality of all rides and attractions.

They are responsible for the regular inspection, maintenance, and repair of the rides.

This could include roller coasters, Ferris wheels, bumper cars, and other mechanical rides.

Their job involves checking and replacing parts such as gears, belts, and other mechanical components.

They may also need to troubleshoot electrical systems, hydraulic systems, and pneumatic systems that are essential to the operation of many amusement rides.

Ride Maintenance Technicians often work closely with ride operators to ensure any issues are identified early and resolved promptly.

They perform routine maintenance tasks such as lubricating parts, tightening bolts, and testing ride controls.

They are also responsible for maintaining detailed service logs and adhering to all safety regulations and standards in the industry.

In the event of a ride malfunction, Ride Maintenance Technicians are typically the first responders, tasked with diagnosing and resolving the problem as quickly and safely as possible.

They play a vital role in ensuring the safe operation of the park’s attractions and overall guest satisfaction.

 

Ride Maintenance Technician Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Ride Maintenance Technician should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Technical knowledge and understanding of mechanical systems, hydraulics, and electrical systems to perform routine maintenance and repairs.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly identify, diagnose, and resolve mechanical or electrical faults and failures.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to work in confined spaces, at heights, and lift heavy equipment or components.
• Attention to detail for ensuring safety standards are met and maintained, and all components are installed and working correctly.
• Teamwork skills for collaborating with other maintenance technicians, ride operators, and park management to ensure smooth operation of rides.
• Good communication skills to effectively convey issues, solutions, and maintenance updates to management and fellow staff.
• Possession of or ability to obtain relevant certifications in areas such as electrical safety, welding, or hydraulic systems.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, and ability to adhere to these at all times to ensure the safety of themselves, colleagues, and park visitors.

 

Ride Maintenance Technician Experience Requirements

Ride Maintenance Technicians typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, alongside a solid background in maintenance work, which could range from 1 to 3 years of experience.

This experience can be gained through jobs in fields such as general maintenance, mechanical repairs, or even a specific ride maintenance apprenticeship or internship.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often bring a deeper understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, safety standards, and preventive maintenance.

They might have developed their skills in a variety of entry-level roles, including Maintenance Assistant, Mechanic, or similar roles within the amusement or theme park industry.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are typically considered senior technicians.

They not only have extensive knowledge of ride operations, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting, but may also have leadership experience, as they may have overseen teams or managed projects.

They could be ready for a supervisory or management role within the ride maintenance department.

Regardless of the level, a Ride Maintenance Technician should have hands-on experience with tools, machinery, and equipment related to ride maintenance and should be comfortable working at heights.

Additionally, they should be trained in safety procedures to ensure a safe environment for both staff and park guests.

 

Ride Maintenance Technician Education and Training Requirements

Ride Maintenance Technicians typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

They usually receive on-the-job training, but an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or electronics engineering technology can be beneficial.

It’s crucial for these technicians to have a solid understanding of hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems, as they will often work with complex ride machinery.

They may also need welding skills, as some repairs may involve this process.

Certifications from accredited institutions such as the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO), Certified Maintenance Technician (CMT), or the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International (AIMS) can enhance job prospects and demonstrate expertise in the field.

Ongoing training is usually necessary due to the continual advancements in ride technology.

This may include manufacturer-specific training or safety updates to ensure adherence to industry regulations and standards.

Furthermore, Ride Maintenance Technicians should possess problem-solving skills, physical stamina, and a keen attention to detail.

They must also adhere to strict safety regulations to ensure the wellbeing of park visitors and staff.

 

Ride Maintenance Technician Salary Expectations

A Ride Maintenance Technician earns an average salary of $39,022 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate depending on various factors such as the technician’s level of experience, certifications, the location of the job, and the size of the employing amusement park or company.

 

Ride Maintenance Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Ride Maintenance Technician need?

Ride Maintenance Technicians should have excellent mechanical and technical abilities to troubleshoot and repair various amusement park rides.

They should possess strong problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues rapidly.

Communication and teamwork skills are also critical as they often work in groups and need to communicate effectively about maintenance requirements and safety protocols.

 

Do Ride Maintenance Technicians need a degree?

While some Ride Maintenance Technicians may hold a degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, it’s not always required.

Many technicians acquire their skills through vocational training or apprenticeships.

However, they must have comprehensive knowledge of safety protocols and machinery operations.

Some employers may also require relevant certifications in areas such as welding or electrical systems.

 

What should you look for in a Ride Maintenance Technician resume?

First and foremost, look for relevant experience in machinery maintenance and repair.

If they’ve worked in an amusement park or a similar environment, it’s a plus.

Check for any certifications in areas like safety procedures or specialized machinery repair.

Also, look for evidence of problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and good communication skills.

 

What qualities make a good Ride Maintenance Technician?

A good Ride Maintenance Technician is meticulous with a keen eye for detail.

They should be safety-conscious, always prioritizing the well-being of park attendees and staff.

Excellent problem-solving skills are crucial for diagnosing and repairing issues swiftly.

Additionally, they should be physically fit as the job often involves heavy lifting and working in confined spaces.

 

Is it challenging to hire Ride Maintenance Technicians?

Hiring Ride Maintenance Technicians can be challenging, mainly due to the specialized skill set required for the job.

It can be difficult to find candidates with the right combination of technical skills, experience, and understanding of safety protocols.

Therefore, it’s essential to offer competitive salaries and benefits, and a supportive work environment to attract and retain skilled technicians.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of being a ride maintenance technician.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about fixing rides.

It’s about ensuring safety and enjoyment, one ride at a time.

With our handy ride maintenance technician job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to start your journey.

But why stop at the starting line?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting precision-cut job listings or honing your resume to a fine edge.

Remember:

Every ride serviced contributes to the overall amusement park experience.

Let’s make those memories. Together.

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