Newport Aquarium Virtual Reality Attraction Operator - Part-Time Year Round [S]

All Career • Newport, KY

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Virtual Reality Attraction Operator is responsible for operating the attraction safely and efficiently while providing friendly, professional guest service. The role includes preparing the attraction for guests, conducting required safety inspections, screening riders, checking restraints, operating controls according to standard procedures, and monitoring rider behavior. Operators must keep the attraction attended whenever it is open and promptly report persistent technical problems or unsafe conditions to a supervisor.

The operator also completes required safety documentation and training, maintains a clean and professional appearance, and helps guests by sharing accurate information about Newport Aquarium activities, aquatic life, and special events or promotions. The position requires a self-motivated, reliable person who can work independently, respond quickly in emergencies, and follow Newport Aquarium and Herschend Enterprises policies, guest-service standards, and safety protocols. Other duties may be assigned by the Guest Services Leadership Team.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Strong public speaking skills and ability to read, write, and speak English.
• Ability to think clearly and react quickly to changes and emergency situations.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes evenings, weekends, and/or holidays.
• Good weekday availability is sought.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check and 5-panel drug screening.
• Position is safety critical and subject to increased-frequency random drug screening.
• Ability to move continuously for long periods, ascend and descend floors, bend, stoop, and reach.
• Ability to lift up to 10 pounds.
• Must be self-motivated, able to work independently, disciplined, and reliable.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of languages other than English.
• Knowledge of marine life.

Responsibilities

• Prioritize safety in all job duties, remain composed during emergencies, and immediately report unsafe behavior or conditions.
• Maintain a clean, professional appearance, including appropriate uniform and grooming.
• Perform basic daily cleaning to keep the attraction and surrounding areas guest ready.
• Communicate with guests and other Hosts kindly and professionally, reflecting the “Creating Memories Worth Repeating” mission.
• Complete required documentation, including daily attraction safety inspections and safety sign-offs.
• Conduct safety inspections before guests ride and after closing.
• Screen riders against attraction requirements and prevent ineligible riders from riding.
• Physically and/or visually check attraction restraints before starting the attraction.
• Operate attraction controls according to Standard Operating Procedures.
• Keep the attraction attended whenever it is open.
• Immediately report persistent technical difficulties to the direct Supervisor.
• Monitor riders to ensure they follow attraction policies and procedures.
• Maintain knowledge of aquarium activities, aquatic life, special events, and promotions to inform guests.
• Maintain Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance.
• Complete required safety training and sign-offs to remain compliant with safety standards.
• Follow Herschend Enterprises’ Core Values and Newport Aquarium Guest Services Standards, policies, procedures, and safety protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Guest Services Leadership Team.

Benefits

• 24 hours of sick PTO annually.
• Profit sharing and a 401(k) plan with company match.
• Free admission for the employee and dependents at Newport Aquarium and most Herschend Enterprises properties.
• One complimentary general admission ticket per pay period to give to another person.
• Discounts at Sharky’s Café, Sweet Dreams Candy Company, and the gift shop.
• Discounted tickets and annual passes for friends and family.
• Training and development.
• Grow U education programs, with most programs fully funded, ranging from certifications and college preparation to associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED