JOB DETAILS

Adventure Cove Ride Operator

CompanyColumbus Zoo Family of Parks
LocationPowell
Work ModeOn Site
PostedMarch 30, 2026
About The Company
Empowering People. Saving Wildlife. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to more than 6,000+ animals representing 600 species. The Zoo is a regional attraction with global impact; annually contributing $4 million of privately raised funds to support conservation projects worldwide. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Columbus Zoo has earned Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating. For open positions, please visit https://www.columbuszoo.org/jobs
About the Role

Overview

 

Step Into the Action! Join the Adventure Cove Ride Operator Team!

Position pays $16 per hour!

Adventure Cove Ride Operators play a vital role in creating a fun, safe, and memorable experience for every guest. Our team values safety, teamwork, professionalism, and excitement as we operate the large rides and attractions throughout Adventure Cove. Whether you’re assisting children on gentle rides or operating thrilling attractions, this role offers a dynamic and rewarding adventure every day.

Responsibilities

Guest Experience & Engagement

  • Create a welcoming and energetic atmosphere for all guests.
  • Provide G.R.E.A.T. guest service through friendly communication and helpful guidance.
  • Answer questions regarding ride rules, park policies, and general guest inquiries.
  • Assist guests of all ages and backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities.

Ride Operation & Safety

  • Operate large attractions by following all standard operating procedures.
  • Deliver clear, detailed safety instructions to groups using a microphone.
  • Screen riders to ensure proper height, eligibility, and adherence to posted requirements.
  • Confirm safety restraints are properly secured before dispatching the ride.
  • Verify that the ride area is clear and secure before operation.

Attention & Situational Awareness

  • Remain attentive, alert, and ready to react quickly to any situation.
  • Monitor ride cycles and guest behavior to ensure a safe environment.
  • Work both independently and as part of a team across various ride locations.
  • Support special events, including Adventure Nights and other evening operations.

General Duties & Operational Support

  • Maintain cleanliness and organization of the attraction area.
  • Assist with boarding and unloading procedures.
  • Adapt to schedule changes due to weather, attendance, or operational needs.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to ensure proper ride operation, including helping with loading/unloading procedures, ride area organization, and communication with the operations team.
  • Opportunity to train at additional ride locations.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • Must successfully pass all required certification tests; all certification training and testing are provided by the Zoo.
  • Must have reliable transportation.

Physical & Environmental Expectations

  • Ability to stand for long periods of time.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions (heat, rain, etc.).
  • Able to maintain appropriate employee appearance standards.

Skills & Abilities

  • Excellent verbal communication skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
  • Basic computer and tablet proficiency.
  • Ability to work courteously with diverse guests and team members.

Scheduling & Compliance

  • Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.
  • Position is a seasonal position and not eligible for overtime pay.
  • Subject to Drug Free Workplace Policy.
  • Subject to criminal background and BMV checks.
Key Skills
SafetyTeamworkProfessionalismExcitementGuest ExperienceCommunicationRide OperationSituational AwarenessAttention To DetailAdaptability
Categories
HospitalitySports & RecreationSecurity & Safety
Job Information
📋Core Responsibilities
Ride Operators are responsible for creating a fun and safe experience by operating large attractions, following all standard operating procedures, and delivering clear safety instructions to guests via microphone. They must also screen riders for eligibility, confirm safety restraints, and maintain situational awareness throughout operation cycles.
📋Job Type
temporary
📊Experience Level
0-2
💼Company Size
925
📊Visa Sponsorship
No
💼Language
English
🏢Working Hours
40 hours
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