Description
The Director of Ride Operations leads the strategic and day-to-day operations of all amusement rides across Morey’s three amusement piers. This position is deeply embedded in the heartbeat of the piers, overseeing the safe, efficient, and memorable operation of approximately 60–70 rides, while leading a diverse team of 200–220 seasonal staff and 10 direct reports. The director is accountable for staff development, ride procedures, scheduling, training, incident response, guest engagement, and ensuring full compliance with New Jersey Amusement Ride Safety laws and ASTM standards. This leader is both an inspirational leader and a visible operational presence — calm under pressure, energetic by nature, and fueled by the dynamic rhythm of a park that never slows down.
The position reports to the Chief Operating Officer, and works closely with the top leadership group of the Company. During the operating season from May through September, working hours may be longer and varied. Off season, working hours are normal and allow time for flexibility and vacations. The entire organization is closed over the December holidays, adding to the overall benefits of this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all aspects of ride operations across three piers, ensuring consistent execution, safety, and guest service.
- Hire, train, and coach a multi-national seasonal staff of over 200, building morale and accountability across shifts.
- Partner with cross-functional leaders in maintenance, HR, guest services, and safety to execute daily and long-range operations.
- Maintain compliance with state and national ride safety regulations (e.g., NJ Ride Law, ASTM).
- Monitor daily ride readiness, crew performance, and guest satisfaction — stepping in to support, coach, or recalibrate as needed.
- Own operating procedures, training documentation, scheduling tools, and playbook-level improvements.
- Represent Ride Operations during regulatory visits, audits, and internal safety meetings.
Ideal Candidate Profile
This role is designed for a hands-on leader who thrives in fast-paced, people-first environments. The ideal candidate brings a strong presence on the pier, confidence in regulatory matters, and a passion for coaching diverse, young teams. They have high operational standards and a hospitality mindset, balancing rules with rhythm, safety with speed, and urgency with patience. They know how to energize a team, de-escalate a situation, and turn a complex operating day into an unforgettable guest experience.
Requirements
- 5+ years of progressive experience in theme/amusement park management with a strong background in Operations related disciplines; we also recognize a similar skill set could come from other industries, such as cruise lines and others – these will be considered.
- Working knowledge of ride system function and general maintenance requirements. If coming from a different industry, then demonstrated current role expertise may demonstrate ability to excel in this role.
- Working knowledge of relevant ASTM standards and ability to understand and meet all regulatory requirements.
- Bachelor’s degree in business or a related study is preferred, but not required
- Passion for the guest experience and a hospitality mindset is critical.
- Excellent communications and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to build collaborative and effective teams is required.
- Exceptional ability to multi-task, process, and make effective decisions quickly is required.
- Ability to learn and utilize organization tech tools and software systems as needed, within park operations and as a Company director.
- Ability to adapt to changing conditions in the daily work environment is needed.
- Ability to work a varied schedule, including nights and weekends, during the operating season.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, composure and curiosity under stress is required.
