Manager, Ride & Show Maintenance - Universal Kids Resort

Job Summary

Manages the mechanical, controls, and animation maintenance of attractions, shows, and water play areas within the theme park at Universal Kids Resort. Responsible for all routine, capital, and expense budgeting and sets direction and priorities for all ride and show maintenance functions. Oversees system and component design changes and directs the activities of outside vendors and construction for attraction additions or modifications.

Oversees, revises and implements the preventative and predictive maintenance programs to ensure compliance with OEM specifications and increased operational readiness and show quality. Leads the team to drive continuous improvement, professional development, and effective administration. Develops and executes TSAT action plans, safety programs, and training plans specific to the area of responsibility. Ensures guest and team member safety across all attractions, shows, and water play areas.

Manages and administers the annual NDT requirements for all attractions within the theme park.

• Manages and reviews the annual, preventative, and predictive maintenance plans with the Technical Services team to ensure the capital investment is maintained in like-new condition. Partners with engineering teams—both internal and third party—on maintenance strategies, upgrades, and technical problem-solving. Sets improvement goals for the department, provides clear direction to ensure goals are met, and communicates these objectives to the team.
• Ensures the safety for all guests and team members through a proactive approach, including addressing safety issues, enforcing proper use of PPE, and regular discussions with the team regarding safety and continuous job safety analysis for all tasks.
• Sets priorities and oversees modifications and/or engineering changes to ensure timely completion of tasks. Analyzes operational performance of the attractions and manages priorities of maintenance activities. Develops and refines maintenance standards and maintains all OSHA, AR 100, and Universal Quality Standards. Ensures compliance with all Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) regulatory requirements and standards pertaining to ride vendor specifications and procedures.
• Manages Ride & Show team by providing leadership, coaching, mentoring, career development, performance management, and recognition. Assigns tasks and monitors performance to ensure policies and procedures are followed.
• Facilitates and maintains effective communication mechanisms throughout Technical Services and across UKR leadership for guest and team member safety. Leads safety audit/inspections, seasonal weather condition sustainment initiatives, and drives action in the form of SOP development, PM updates, engineering controls, administrative controls, and all required training.
• Ensures operational throughput requirements are supported on a daily basis. Coordinates work efforts with operational needs of the attractions, working directly with all affected departments to ensure the highest level of customer service. Ensures all rides and shows comply with ASTM F-24 guidelines as well as original manufacturer’s requirements.
• Plans, prepares, and manages routine budgets and monitors overtime to ensure labor optimization. Builds capital and expense plans as required.
• Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Supervises an exempt team.

• Must be willing to work varying hours, including evenings and weekends to support business needs.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Experience directing a diverse team with a focus on safety, compliance, and regulations.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

• AIMS or NARSSO Level 1 "Ride Inspector" is preferred.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related field is required.

• 7+ years of experience in operations or maintenance management of a large resort, hotel, or theme park with 2+ years of leadership experience is required; experience within a seasonal or regional theme park is a plus; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Universal Kids Resort is an equal opportunity employer. EOE