Home Positions Ride Operator

About the employer

Cedar Point is an amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio, less than 50 miles from Cleveland, and part of the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. Available positions include ride operator, food service associate, games sales associate, housekeeping attendant, linen attendant and traffic associate. Housing is guaranteed for all hired participants in employer-owned or employer-arranged accommodation, and you may also choose to find your own; a second job here is unlikely.

Ride Operator

General information

Rate per hour
$15.00
Tips
No
Average hours per week
32 hours
Level of English
Intermediate
Estimated weekly wages
$448.00
Minimum hours per week
25 hours
Maximum hours per week
50 hours
Hours last season
32 hours
Overtime policy
No, exempt from paying overtime by law
Bonus
No
Job benefits
Associates enjoy free admission to Cedar Point and all of our other properties, discounts on food and merchandise, complimentary tickets for family and friends, and discounts to some local businesses.
Drug test
Yes
Must be 21+
No
Lifting
25lbs/11kgs
Uniform required
Yes
Uniform cost
Free
Dress code
Yes
Nearest city
Cleveland, Ohio
Distance
Less than 50 miles away
Second job
No, unlikely

Job duties

  • Verify riders are properly seated and safety restraints are secure before every ride cycle.
  • Operate ride control systems which may vary in terms of complexity.
  • Memorize and deliver scripted safety announcements over a microphone.
  • Screen riders to ensure they comply with ride requirements including proper height/weight restrictions, loose article and ride admission policy.
  • Maintain a professional, cheerful, and hospitable disposition while engaging guests at every point of contact.
  • Conduct pre-opening and closing checks to ensure the ride is safe, secure, and clean.
  • Anticipate rider needs while being alert and attentive.

Housing

Housing
$84.00 per week
People per unit
4
Own housing allowed
Yes
Utilities
No

Details

Become the Person Who Says “Enjoy Your Ride!” at America’s Roller Coast

Imagine starting every shift with the roar of a roller coaster launching over Lake Erie and the screams of thrilled guests echoing across the boardwalk. As a Ride Operator at Cedar Point, a Six Flags Park, you won’t just work at an amusement park — you’ll work at the amusement park, home to some of the tallest, fastest and most legendary coasters on the planet. This is the Work & Travel USA summer that your friends will still be asking you about years from now.

What You’ll Be Doing

Ride Operators are the heartbeat of the park. You’ll be trained and certified on one or more attractions, and your day will include:

  • Operating ride control panels safely and confidently, following strict Six Flags safety procedures
  • Checking restraints, harnesses and lap bars to make sure every guest is secure before dispatch
  • Grouping and loading guests efficiently to keep lines moving and wait times low
  • Making clear, friendly announcements on the microphone (yes, you get to be the voice of the ride!)
  • Measuring guests for height requirements and explaining rider safety rules
  • Keeping the ride platform, queue line and station area clean and welcoming
  • Answering guest questions about the park, show times and directions with a smile
  • Working as part of a rotating team, moving between positions throughout your shift

Perks & Benefits

  • $15/hour from day one, with paid training
  • Free admission to Cedar Point and other Six Flags parks — ride the coasters on your days off
  • Free access to Cedar Point Shores Waterpark and the park’s private beach
  • On-site or nearby employee housing designed for seasonal and international staff
  • Employee discounts on food, merchandise and games in the park
  • Exclusive associate events: ride nights, park parties, beach barbecues and sports tournaments
  • An international community of thousands of seasonal employees from dozens of countries
  • Real, resume-worthy experience in safety operations, guest service and teamwork
  • Possible end-of-season bonus and rehire invitations for returning students

What We’re Looking For

  • University student aged 18–25 with a valid J-1 Work & Travel visa and program sponsorship
  • Conversational to good English — you’ll speak with guests and use a microphone daily
  • A safety-first mindset: attention to detail matters when thousands of guests trust you
  • Ability to stand, walk and work outdoors for long periods, in sun, heat, wind or rain
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays
  • Friendly, energetic and reliable — you’ll be the face of the park
  • Ability to commit to the full Summer to Fall season (great news: fall means HalloWeekends, the park’s biggest and most fun event of the year!)
  • No previous experience required — full paid training and ride certification provided

Ready to Launch Your American Summer?

Every year, students from around the world choose Cedar Point for one reason: it’s the ultimate mix of earning money, improving English and living an unforgettable American adventure. Spots on the most popular attractions fill up fast, so apply early and get ready to press the green button on the summer of your life.

Apply now for the Ride Operator position at Cedar Point and secure your Work & Travel USA placement in Sandusky, Ohio!

Why choose Cedar Point a Six Flags Park

Why Sandusky, Ohio?

Cedar Point sits on a narrow peninsula surrounded on three sides by Lake Erie, which means your “office” comes with a private beach, sunsets over the water and a mile-long boardwalk. Sandusky is a classic American lakeside resort town: friendly locals, ice cream stands, waterfront restaurants and ferries to the Lake Erie Islands (Put-in-Bay is a legendary day trip for international students).

You’re also perfectly placed for weekend travel. Cleveland is about an hour away with its Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and lakefront skyline, Toledo and Columbus are within easy reach, and Detroit, Chicago, Niagara Falls and even Toronto are all doable road trips with your new international friends.

About Ohio

Ohio's Sandusky is home to Cedar Point, one of the world's top roller-coaster parks on Lake Erie. Students find lots of work at the amusement park, resorts and restaurants in a fun, fast-paced setting.

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