The Rides Maintenance Worker performs general and preventative maintenance, inspections, and repairs on amusement rides, water rides, and other attractions at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium properties.

Maintenance & Inspections:

• Conduct general and preventative maintenance on amusement rides, water rides, and other attractions.
• Implement preventative maintenance programs based on manufacturer guidelines and best practices.
• Perform daily inspections of rides, slides, pools, and attractions, including water quality checks at Zoombezi Bay.
• Complete routine maintenance schedules (daily, weekly, monthly, annual) as required.

Documentation & Compliance:

• Record all maintenance, inspections, and repair activities in equipment logs.
• Review and follow manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manuals.
• Stay updated on “Laws and Rules Governing Amusement Rides in Ohio” published by the Ohio Department of Agriculture, Amusement Ride Safety Division pursuant to work assignment.

Operational Duties:

• Operate motorized vehicles and specialized equipment.
• Assist with special events such as Wildlights and Zoofari.
• Monitor and report potential issues with buildings, attractions, and environments.
• Participate in maintenance activities for facility buildings and other areas.

Safety & Support:

• Ensure safety of self, staff, and guests through adherence to safety protocols and participation in training.
• Handle hazardous chemicals (e.g., hydrochloric acid, liquid chlorine) with care.
• Shovel snow, spread salt, and perform other facility upkeep tasks as needed.
• Provide leadership to seasonal associates as assigned.

Additional Duties:

• Attend required meetings and training sessions.
• Assist other facilities personnel and participate in cross-training activities.
• Support the organization's mission and sustainability practices.

Education & Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum six months’ maintenance experience preferred.
• Technical school degree in a related field preferred.
• Certifications from NAARSO, CPO, or AFO preferred.
• Electrical experience and/or certifications highly preferred.

Skills & Abilities:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently plan and organize tasks.
• Strong guest service skills and adherence to safety protocols.
• Valid state driver’s license and good driving record required.
• Ability to operate standard shift vehicles.
• Ability to pass TB screening, criminal background check, and drug-free workplace policy.

Additional Requirements:

• Proof of negative TB screening prior to placement and annually thereafter.
• Ability to comply with drug-free workplace policy including pre-employment and random testing.

Our mission at the Columbus Zoo Family of Parks is Empowering People. Saving Wildlife. When you are a part of our full-time Columbus Zoo and Aquarium team, you are helping us achieve that mission! We offer competitive wages, paid time off, excellent benefits including covered premiums for vision, dental, basic life and disability insurance, and OPERS retirement. Did we mention the perks? Company provided tuition reimbursement, Zoo family membership, free admission and discounts at all of our parks, team member appreciation events, wellness program, and more. Plus, as a nonprofit organization, our employees can take advantage of the student loan forgiveness through the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.