Ride Operator Onboarding Checklist

Ride Operator Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Ride Operator starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Entertainment onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Ride Operator, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Ride Operator onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Ride Operator Onboarding Checklist

1. Safety Training: This task involves providing comprehensive safety training to the new ride operator. It includes educating them about emergency procedures, operating protocols, and safety guidelines specific to the amusement park or entertainment venue. This task is typically performed by the safety department or designated safety trainers within the company.

2. Ride-specific Training: In addition to general safety training, ride-specific training is crucial for a ride operator. This task involves teaching the new operator about the specific ride they will be operating, including its mechanics, controls, and any unique features. This training is usually conducted by experienced ride operators or maintenance personnel.

3. Ride Operation Procedures: Familiarizing the new ride operator with the standard operating procedures is essential. This task involves providing them with a detailed manual or guide that outlines the step-by-step process of operating the ride, including starting and stopping procedures, loading and unloading passengers, and handling various scenarios. The ride supervisor or manager typically performs this task.

4. Customer Service Training: As ride operators often interact with guests, customer service training is crucial. This task involves teaching the new operator how to handle customer inquiries, provide assistance, and ensure a positive experience for park visitors. Customer service trainers or supervisors are responsible for conducting this training.

5. Ride Maintenance Awareness: While ride operators are not typically responsible for maintenance tasks, it is important for them to have a basic understanding of ride maintenance and be able to identify any potential issues. This task involves providing an overview of common maintenance concerns, such as abnormal sounds, visual inspections, and reporting procedures. Maintenance personnel or supervisors usually perform this task.

6. Ride Queue Management: Efficient queue management is essential for a smooth operation. This task involves training the new ride operator on how to manage queues, ensure proper spacing between guests, and maintain order. The ride supervisor or lead operator typically provides guidance and training for this task.

7. Emergency Response Training: In the event of an emergency, ride operators need to be prepared to handle various situations. This task involves providing training on emergency response protocols, such as evacuations, first aid procedures, and communication with emergency services. The safety department or designated emergency response trainers typically perform this task.

8. Ride Inspections: Ride operators are often responsible for conducting pre-opening inspections to ensure the ride is safe and ready for operation. This task involves training the new operator on how to perform thorough inspections, identify potential hazards, and report any issues. The ride supervisor or maintenance personnel typically provide guidance and training for this task.

9. Cash Handling and Point of Sale Training: In some cases, ride operators may be responsible for handling cash transactions or operating point of sale systems for ticket sales. This task involves training the new operator on cash handling procedures, using the POS system, and ensuring accuracy in transactions. The park’s finance or operations department typically provides training for this task.

10. Teamwork and Communication: As ride operators often work in teams, fostering effective teamwork and communication is crucial. This task involves training the new operator on how to collaborate with other operators, communicate effectively over radios or intercom systems, and support each other during busy periods. The ride supervisor or lead operator typically provides guidance and training for this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Ride Operator checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Ride Operator up to speed and working well in your Entertainment team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.