Famed Ohio-based amusement park Cedar Point announced plans on Thursday to hire 5,000 employees for the 2017 season. Each summer, millions flock to Sandusky, Ohio to ride some of the world’s largest roller coasters. But keeping up such a large park takes plenty of help. That’s why Cedar Point’s parent company, Cedar Fair, hires thousands of seasonal workers each year to implement day-to-day operations.
According to the Cedar Point press release, the park needs associates to fill positions in Food & Beverage, Ride Operations, Park Operations, Security & Safety, Accommodations, Merchandise & Games, Park Services and more. The release also highlights many of the benefits park employees receive:
- Free admission to Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shores Water Park
- Complimentary admission for friends and family
- Associate ride nights on some of the biggest and baddest rides in the world
- Discounts on food and merchandise
- Summer parties and events with music, games and prizes
- Bus trips to popular destinations around the Midwest
- An associate recreation center
- On-site, low-cost housing (if qualified)
- An unforgettable summer of fun
Working at Cedar Point is a fun, challenging, unique and eye-opening experience. And I can tell you this, because I’ve been there.
In the summer of 2010, after finishing my undergrad getting ready for grad school, I packed up and left for Sandusky, Ohio to spend my summer working at Cedar Point. I was a bit skeptical, but the economy was awful at the time, and I needed the money. The job ending up being one of the most memorable experiences of my life.
I’ll get the negative out of the way first. It’s a tough environment to work in! 60-80 hour weeks weren’t uncommon during busy season. And let me assure you, Ohio gets very warm in July. Especially for ride operators working outdoors. The on-site housing was far from luxurious, albeit, incredibly affordable. Plus, the strict grooming policy can be tough for some to follow.
That being said, I had an incredible summer experience. Not only do you work with people from all over the country, but you meet people from all over the world. One of my fellow bartenders was in his seventh summer traveling from Bulgaria to Ohio to work at Cedar Point.
With the on-site housing, I managed to bank a lot of money. I somehow didn’t blow it all at any of the many Sandusky clubs that hold special nights each week just for Cedar Point employees. You definitely make great friends. And I promise you, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Also, if you’re a roller coaster person (I am not), having unlimited free access on your days off to the park is a pretty incredible perk. But I stayed close to the waterpark myself!
I never managed to finish the summer. When My 1043 came knocking at my door in late-July, I left early and came back to Michigan. But I still hold fond memories of my summer at Cedar Point, and the friendships I made, including one co-worker who unfortunately passed away several months later.
For those of you interested in spending your summer at Cedar Point, the easiest way to apply is to fill out an online application. They’re also holding a job fair at Castaway Bay on Saturday, April 8th. If I can make a recommendation: try scoring a bartender or server gig. The hours are better, the tips are great, and the air conditioning certainly beats the July sun. Good luck to everyone who needs a job this summer!
