What Does a Theme Park Manager Do?

A theme park manager has the job of overseeing the day-to-day operations of the theme park. He works to ensure the park's visitors enjoy a satisfying experience. His job also includes making sure employees understand their jobs and are able to perform them efficiently. Theme park managers also plan and oversee improvements to their parks and help make sure they stay competitive.

One of a theme park manager’s most important jobs is to manage the visitor experience. This can include everything from the appearance of the park and the hours of operation to the accessibility of rides and bathroom facilities. A theme park manager also makes plans and develops strategies to ensure the health and safety of visitors to the park. To help keep visitors satisfied, he usually sets customer service policies that dictate how employees should treat visitors and respond to their needs.

Often, theme park managers make decisions regarding theme park policies. For example, the manager of a theme park may have to decide when the park will open and close daily. He may also choose when the park will open for the season as well as when the season will end. If the weather may turn inclement, the manager often has to decide whether or not to open the park for the day. A person in this position may also be charged with making policies for when a visitor is entitled to a refund or credit of his admission fee.

The rides and amusements in a theme park have to be maintained in order to ensure they stay in good working order. A theme park manager typically implements an inspection and safety routine. He may also decide when to add new rides as well as when to retire older or less popular amusements. The individual who holds this position also creates plans and strategies for dealing with emergencies, including evacuation plans and emergency medical care strategies. He may also oversee security personnel who help keep the park safe for visitors.

Some theme park managers also have the job of staying abreast of changes in the theme park industry and knowing what the park’s competitors are doing. The information the manager obtains through these efforts often helps him decide when to make improvements and how to keep the park competitive. A theme park manager may also play a role in marketing the park’s attractions.

At high-profile theme parks like Universal Studios Hollywood, a theme park manager's role is especially dynamic. They are tasked with overseeing vast entertainment areas, ensuring each guest's experience is memorable. From managing thrilling attractions to coordinating large-scale events, their role is crucial in upholding the park's reputation for unparalleled excitement and customer satisfaction.

The extent of a theme park manager’s job may depend on the size of the park. In a smaller park, he may have a more hands-on position and work closely with his employees. In a larger park, he may work to set policies and then depend on other managers or department heads to implement them.