Manager, Ride Operations

As the Manager of Ride Operations, you will oversee all safety aspects of ride operations while ensuring exceptional guest experiences. Key responsibilities include conducting safety inspections, managing team schedules, training staff, and collaborating with various departments to ensure the park operates smoothly. You’ll also develop policies and lead emergency protocols, ensuring both guest and associate safety.

To qualify for the Manager, Ride Operations role, candidates must have a High School Diploma; a Bachelor’s degree in business or hospitality management is preferred. You should have 6-8 years of relevant experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership role. You'll need to be proficient in Microsoft and Adobe office programs, possess strong judgment, and be ready to work flexible shifts.

The Manager, Ride Operations ensures guest safety by overseeing compliance with safety standards, conducting regular safety inspections, and developing emergency protocols. You will lead training efforts for associates on safety procedures and coordinate incident response efforts, ensuring all incidents are documented and reviewed to assess risk and implement preventative measures.

Key skills for the Manager, Ride Operations role include leadership and team management, effective communication, problem-solving, and a commitment to safety and guest service. Being adaptable and proactive, with the ability to manage schedules and collaborate with other departments, is also essential for success in this position.

As the Manager of Ride Operations, you should expect a flexible work schedule that includes days, nights, weekends, and holidays. This flexibility is essential to meet the park's business needs and ensure that all rides operate seamlessly and safely during peak hours of guest attendance.

In your response, highlight a specific instance where you effectively led your team during a busy period. Focus on the steps you took to ensure everyone's safety, how you maintained team cohesion, and what the outcome was in terms of guest satisfaction and team performance.

Discuss specific safety protocols you believe are essential for ride operations, such as regular safety checks, staff training sessions, and emergency response plans. Tailor your answer to reflect a blend of your personal experience and industry best practices while emphasizing the importance of guest safety.

Explain your approach to creating a positive workplace—this might involve regular team meetings, recognizing individual contributions, providing growth opportunities, and promoting open communication. You could also mention specific initiatives you've led to boost morale and collaboration.

Share your strategies for effective scheduling, such as utilizing scheduling software, anticipating peak times, and ensuring appropriate staffing levels. Highlight how you communicate and coordinate with team leaders to manage any last-minute changes efficiently.

Take the opportunity to recount a specific emergency situation you faced in a previous role. Focus on your response and leadership during the incident, what steps were taken to protect guests and associates, and what you learned from the experience for future situations.

Detail your methods for aligning operational practices with corporate standards, such as regular training sessions, performance audits, and fostering open dialogues with corporate teams to stay updated on new policies. Stress the importance of maintaining consistency across all levels.

Provide examples of previous collaborations with other departments, such as maintenance or marketing. Discuss how cooperative efforts helped enhance guest experiences or operational efficiency, reflecting your ability to negotiate and build relationships across teams.

Share your approach to conflict resolution. Focus on your ability to listen, understand differing viewpoints, and seek common ground. Emphasize the importance of maintaining focus on guest safety and the overall success of the park.

Articulate your views on guest experience, such as efficiency, friendliness, and safety. Discuss how each aspect contributes to overall guest satisfaction and encourages repeat visits, and share any initiatives you've led to improve guest interactions.

Outline your vision for improving ride operation procedures, such as conducting audits, seeking feedback from associates, and continuously refining training protocols. Highlight the goal of elevating safety and guest experience through innovative practices.