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Amusement Park Workers


Overview

Amusement Park Workers

Introduction

Amusement park workers function in a variety of jobs. Some are employed to construct, maintain, and operate thrill rides; others, assigned to the front gate, issue tickets or passes; some work concession stands or manage park restaurants and gift shops; many are employed as entertainers. There are also numerous behind-the-scenes departments such as security, marketing, or personnel. Each particular department, regardless of the amount of customer contact, is necessary for the smooth and profitable operation of the park, as well as t...

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$25,060

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Employment Prospects

Good

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Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma


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Experience

On-the-job training


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Skills

Business Management
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Personality Traits

Hands On
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Earnings

Though many entry-level amusement park employees earn minimum wage ($7.25 an hour, or $15,080 annually for full-time work) or slightly higher, weekly salaries will vary depending on the type and size of facility and its location. (Most amusement parks choose not to divulge salary information due to confidentiality reasons, though they do offer wages competitive with similar industries.) The U.S...

Work Environment

Attendants who work for traveling carnivals must move from town to town, usually every week or two. Some employees are housed in trailers or in motels. Relocation is necessary, of course, when applying for employment, or an internship, at parks in other cities. One Chicago area amusement park houses seasonal help at a nearby college.

Attendants assigned to work a ride, game booth, or con...

Outlook

Employment of recreation workers overall is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2028, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Opportunities for amusement park workers should be good in the coming years. Families who are budget conscious may be more inclined to spend their vacation money visiting local attractions, such as amusement parks, rather than paying f...