Pipe Welder / Ride Mechanic

Kings Island is seeking a highly skilled Ride Mechanic / Pipe Welder to support the safe operation and maintenance of our world-class rides and attractions. This is a dual-role position requiring hands-on experience in both mechanical systems and structural/pipe welding, including pressure-rated welding. The ideal candidate will be safety-focused, mechanically inclined, and experienced with a wide range of tools, systems, and materials. You’ll play a vital role in keeping our rides operating smoothly and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of millions of guests annually.

Ride Maintenance Duties:

• Perform daily, weekly, monthly, annual inspections of rides and attraction equipment.

• Conduct preventative and corrective maintenance on mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and electrical ride components.

• Troubleshoot and repair systems including:

  • Hydraulic/pneumatic cylinders and hoses

  • Gearboxes, gears, chains, and sprockets

  • Brakes, clutches, wheels, and bearings

  • Springs, shafts, bushings, and other mechanical assemblies

• Read and interpret manufacturer manuals, schematics, blueprints, and technical documents.

• Document all inspections, repairs, and maintenance tasks in a timely and accurate manner.

• Communicate ride status and equipment issues clearly to team members and management.

• Ensure all maintenance work complies with safety codes, legal standards, and company policy.

• Operate machine shop tools including lathes, mills, drill presses, and grinders.

Welding & Fabrication Duties:

• Perform structural and pressure-rated pipe welding using MIG, TIG, and Stick (Arc) methods.

• Must be able to pass a 6G pipe weld test (2" and 8") within 60 days of employment.

• Weld in flat, vertical, and overhead positions based on project needs.

• Work from blueprints, layouts, diagrams, oral instructions, and weld procedures.

• Prepare joints and work pieces by cleaning, grooving, and positioning using clamps or jigs.

• Maintain adequate inventory of welding supplies and materials.

• Operate welding equipment and ensure proper use and maintenance.

• Support emergency repairs and special fabrication projects as needed.

• High school diploma or GED required.

• Minimum 5 years of welding experience or formal completion of a welding trade school program.

• 2 to 4 years of mechanical maintenance experience, preferably in industrial or amusement settings.

• Must provide your own basic hand tools.

• Strong working knowledge of:

  • Mechanical systems and power transmission components

  • Pneumatic and hydraulic systems

  • Welding techniques and safety procedures

• Ability to read and interpret mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic blueprints.

• Comfortable working at heights up to 300 feet on platforms, lifts, scaffolding, or ride structures.

• Able to work nights, weekends, and holidays to support operational needs.

• Valid state driver’s license required.

• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced and physically demanding environment.