About the employer
Holiday World & Splashin' Safari is a family-owned theme park and water park in Santa Claus, Indiana. It's known for top ranked coasters, plenty of family rides and shows, and Santa Claus himself, while Splashin' Safari is one of the world's largest water parks. Guests enjoy free soft drinks, free sunscreen and free parking.
As a seasonal student you'll work in a busy, guest-focused environment. Team members get exclusive employee ride nights, game and movie nights, sport competitions, picnics and parties, 50% off food in the park, free admission to reciprocal parks, bus trip options and an engagement program with points for prizes. Santa Claus is a smaller town, but Christmas themed stores, Lincoln State Park, a drive-in theater, kayaking, Patoka Lake and Marengo Cave are nearby, with Louisville, Indianapolis, Evansville and Nashville within day-trip distance.
The job as Ride Operator
What you'll do
- Work at a ride
- Ensure the safe and efficient operation of rides
- Enforce rules
- Give safety instructions to guests
- Maintain cleanliness of the area
- Ensure ride rules are enforced and height restrictions are followed
- Communicate with and assist guests as needed
What is required
Pay and hours
Housing
You'll stay in employer-arranged, dormitory-style housing built in 2023, with a 24/7 front desk, security monitoring, central heating/air conditioning, lounges on each floor and vending machines. Rooms are shared by 2-4 students and include bunk beds, lockers, a microwave and a mini-fridge. There's free WiFi, a large shared kitchen, laundry on every floor and communal bathrooms with private locking stalls and shower pods.
Location: Santa Claus, Indiana
Why Santa Claus, Indiana?
Yes — the town is really called Santa Claus! This charming small town in southern Indiana is famous for its Christmas-themed streets, its post office that answers letters to Santa, and its warm, welcoming community that has hosted international students for many years.
Holiday World is home to legendary wooden coasters like The Voyage, The Raven and The Legend, plus Splashin’ Safari — one of the top-rated water parks in the United States. In your free time you can explore local lakes and state parks, take road trips to Louisville, Nashville, Indianapolis, Chicago or St. Louis, and experience authentic small-town American life.
About Indiana
Indiana offers lakes, resorts like French Lick and friendly Midwestern towns. Students typically work in resort hotels, restaurants and attractions in a relaxed, affordable summer setting.
Ready for Your American Summer?
Spots at Holiday World fill up fast every year — this is one of the most requested Work & Travel placements in the United States. Apply today and spend your summer making memories for thousands of guests (and for yourself) in Santa Claus, Indiana!
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