Roller Coaster Tester Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the thrill-seeking world of amusement parks, the focus on roller coaster testers has never been more exhilarating.

As innovation soars, the demand for adventurous individuals who can test, evaluate, and ensure the safety of our roller coasters escalates with each twist and turn.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a roller coaster tester?

Whether you are:

• A thrill-seeker looking to understand the dynamics of this role,
• A recruitment officer mapping out the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the adrenaline-fueled world of roller coaster testing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable roller coaster tester job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Roller Coaster Tester Duties and Responsibilities

Roller Coaster Testers are responsible for ensuring the safety and functionality of roller coasters and similar amusement park rides.

Their duties involve rigorous testing and careful analysis of roller coasters to ensure they are safe and working properly.

The duties and responsibilities of a Roller Coaster Tester include:

• Testing new and existing roller coasters for safety and functionality
• Evaluating and documenting test results, noting any anomalies or potential safety hazards
• Conducting regular inspections of roller coaster components, such as tracks, cars, and safety restraints
• Collaborating with engineers, maintenance technicians, and other stakeholders to address and rectify any issues identified during testing
• Ensuring all testing and safety procedures adhere to regulatory standards and industry best practices
• Providing feedback on roller coaster operations, including speed, smoothness, and overall ride experience
• Conducting stress tests on various parts of the roller coaster to evaluate durability and safety
• Participating in emergency drills to simulate potential roller coaster malfunctions

 

Roller Coaster Tester Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a courageous and adventurous Roller Coaster Tester to ride and evaluate our roller coasters.

The Roller Coaster Tester’s responsibilities will include riding on new and existing roller coasters, assessing their safety and thrill factor, and providing comprehensive reports to our engineering and design team.

Our ideal candidate has a strong stomach, a fearless attitude and is dedicated to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our amusement park visitors.

 

Responsibilities

• Ride on roller coasters to test their functionality and safety
• Provide thorough feedback on the thrill factor and overall experience of the ride
• Document and report any issues or potential improvements to the design and engineering team
• Collaborate with the engineering team to improve the design and safety of the rides
• Participate in the initial unveiling and launches of new roller coasters
• Ensure compliance with industry safety standards and regulations
• Maintain comprehensive records of tested roller coasters

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Experience in a similar role or in the amusement park industry would be advantageous
• Excellent observational and report writing skills
• High tolerance for speed and heights
• Excellent physical health to endure the demands of the job
• Availability to work irregular hours and travel as required

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Thrill and excitement of being the first to try new roller coasters

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Roller Coaster Tester
• Work Environment: This role requires working in outdoor amusement parks and in varying weather conditions. Extensive travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Park Manager or Ride Safety Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 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 Roller Coaster Tester Do?

Roller Coaster Testers work primarily for amusement parks, ride manufacturers, or consulting firms specializing in theme park safety.

Their primary task is to ensure the safety and functionality of roller coasters and other amusement park rides before they are open to the public.

This involves testing the rides under various conditions and scenarios to identify any potential issues or safety risks.

Roller Coaster Testers conduct a series of tests on the ride, including examining the control systems, checking the speed, verifying the safety restraints, and evaluating the overall ride experience.

These tests are done after any maintenance or changes have been made to the roller coaster to ensure that it still operates safely and as intended.

They often work closely with engineers and maintenance staff to understand the design and operation of the roller coaster, and to report any problems they identify during testing.

In addition to testing the roller coasters, they may also be responsible for compiling reports on their findings, making recommendations for improvements, and helping to develop safety guidelines and procedures for the ride operators.

While this role may sound thrilling, it requires a high level of attention to detail and a strong understanding of engineering and safety principles to ensure that every ride is as safe as it is fun.

 

Roller Coaster Tester Qualifications and Skills

A proficient roller coaster tester should have the skills and qualifications that match your job description, such as:

• A strong understanding of engineering and safety principles to identify potential flaws in design or operation.
• Physical fitness and stamina to endure repetitive tests and withstand the physical demands of the job.
• High level of attention to detail to precisely note any irregularities or potential issues during the ride.
• Strong problem-solving skills to quickly identify potential hazards or malfunctions and recommend solutions.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively report findings to engineers, designers, and management.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and handle intense situations, given the high-risk nature of the job.
• Comfort with heights and high speeds, as well as the ability to handle potentially disorienting movements.

 

Roller Coaster Tester Experience Requirements

Roller Coaster Testers generally require extensive on-the-job training rather than any specific formal education.

They need to familiarize themselves with the operational systems of the roller coaster and are often required to have a basic understanding of mechanical engineering principles.

Experience in roles such as ride operator, ride technician or amusement park maintenance can often provide the necessary background for this role.

A tester should know the safety protocols and operational procedures, all of which can be gained through these roles.

Some roller coaster tester positions may require testers to have experience in riding a variety of roller coasters to understand the nuances and variations in ride experiences.

This can often be gained through frequent visits to various amusement parks and a personal passion for roller coasters.

Roles in quality assurance or safety compliance could also be beneficial, as these positions require a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of safety standards.

Those with more than 3 years of experience in the industry, often in a combination of the roles mentioned above, are typically considered for roller coaster tester positions.

Testers with more than 5 years of experience might have additional responsibilities, like providing feedback on the ride experience, assisting with design improvements, and participating in safety audits.

 

Roller Coaster Tester Education and Training Requirements

A Roller Coaster Tester often has a background in engineering, typically holding a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.

In-depth knowledge of physics, mechanical systems, and safety regulations is crucial for this role.

Many employers may prefer candidates with professional experience in the amusement or entertainment industry, or previous roles that involved safety inspection or quality assurance.

While not always required, obtaining a certification from organizations such as the National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO) or the Amusement Industry Manufacturers and Suppliers International (AIMS) can enhance job prospects and credibility in the field.

Candidates should also have strong problem-solving skills, a keen eye for detail, and the physical endurance to handle the demands of the job.

First aid training may also be beneficial, as roller coaster testers may need to respond to emergency situations in their line of work.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest safety regulations and technological advancements in amusement ride design and operation is essential.

 

Roller Coaster Tester Salary Expectations

A Roller Coaster Tester typically earns an average salary of $57,000 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on years of experience, location, and the specific theme park or company that employs them.

 

Roller Coaster Tester Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Roller Coaster Tester need?

Roller Coaster Testers need to have a strong attention to detail to detect any irregularities or potential issues with the rides.

They should also be comfortable with heights and high-speed situations.

Good communication skills are essential to provide clear feedback and report on any issues or potential improvements.

Physical fitness is also important due to the intense nature of the rides.

 

Do Roller Coaster Testers need a degree?

Roller Coaster Testers do not typically require a specific degree, but having a background in engineering or mechanics can be beneficial to understand the technical aspects of the rides.

However, most companies will require testers to undergo specific training to ensure they understand safety procedures and testing protocols.

 

What should you look for in a Roller Coaster Tester resume?

In addition to any relevant experience or qualifications, look for evidence of physical fitness, comfort with high-stress situations, and a meticulous eye for detail.

Any previous work in areas that require safety inspections or quality control could also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Roller Coaster Tester?

A good Roller Coaster Tester should be calm under pressure, observant, and physically fit.

They should have a keen eye for detail to detect potential issues or improvements.

A good tester should also have excellent communication skills to effectively report their findings and any potential issues.

They should also be adventurous and thrill-seeking, as they will be required to test rides at high speeds and heights.

 

Is it difficult to hire Roller Coaster Testers?

Hiring for Roller Coaster Testers can be challenging due to the specific nature of the role.

Candidates must be willing to undertake physical risks, and there are also a limited number of positions available in this field.

However, the unique nature of the role can also make it appealing to many individuals.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unfastened the safety bars and revealed what it really means to be a roller coaster tester.

And guess what?

It’s not just about thrilling rides.

It’s about shaping the amusement industry, one roller coaster at a time.

With our comprehensive roller coaster tester job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to make a move.

But why stop there?

Journey further with our job description generator. It’s your ticket to detailed job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every roller coaster is a part of the larger amusement park.

Let’s shape that thrill. Together.

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