Theme Park Employment:
Pros and Cons

So, now that you know what you’re getting yourself into, what are the pros and cons of working in the theme park industry? Is the right type of summer job for you?

Pros

• The ability to add a large corporation/company to your resume for future job applications
• Affordable, inclusive health benefits (medical, prescription, dental and vision)
• Comprehensive retirement plans (including 401K)
• Working in a dynamic, diverse environment
• Interacting with people from around the world
• Numerous networking opportunities with executives
• Perks such as complimentary park tickets and other discounts
• Transferable skills that will develop you as a marketable commodity
• Make new friends among your coworkers
• By wearing park-supplied uniforms, you cut down on personal laundry costs
• Working in a fun, ever-changing environment
• Numerous advancement opportunities
• Exclusive offers of limited edition merchandise at discounted rates
• Access to company-sponsored employee events, parties, and recognition celebrations
• Opportunity for educational reimbursement
• Two words – nighttime fireworks!

Cons

• Long hours in possible inclement weather
• Occasional high pressure/stress situations (i.e., learn how to sell 200 ponchos in less than three minutes)
• Standing on your feet 8-10 hours a day
• Handling negative guest interactions (ex: when a guest angrily blames you for the rain or the four-hour wait for their favorite ride)
• Some roles require physical labor
• Altering oneself to conform to park appearance guidelines
• Answering repetitive (and somewhat inane) questions (ex: What time is the 3:00 parade?)
• Large crowds during the busy season
• Wearing unflattering uniforms
• Working weekends and holidays

There’s quite a lot to consider on both sides of the theme park job equation!