Kennywood, Sandcastle, Idlewild Boost Pay Rates Up To $13/Hour For Preseason’s Final Hiring Push

WEST MIFFLIN, PA – Locals eager for more fun this summer and job-seekers in search of a rewarding, unique environment can find something to scream about: Kennywood and its sister parks are raising the stakes on a preseason hiring spree!

With outlooks improving for the Summer Seasons at Kennywood, Sandcastle Waterpark and Idlewild & SoakZone in recent weeks, park management wish to hire an additional 900 seasonal Team Members across the three Western Pennsylvania parks in order to expand operating schedules closer to pre-pandemic standards. To do so, starting hourly pay rates for positions that require an adult (at least 18 years old, or graduating high school seniors) will now make $13 an hour, with select jobs at Idlewild paying as much as $16 hourly. Recruits will also be eligible for a variety of perks and bonuses. New this spring, new and returning seasonal Team Members will receive a complimentary 2021 Basic Season Pass for themselves and up to three members of their immediate family as long as they apply and complete the hiring process by May 10.

“All signs point to a much better summer, so we’re stepping up our recruitment efforts to attract great candidates and deliver great experiences for our guests,” says Kennywood/Sandcastle General Manager Mark Pauls. “We can’t wait to get people back to work, and back to fun!”

Positions are available in all departments, with the parks’ primary focus on Lifeguards, Ride Operators, and Food & Beverage staff. In addition to the new pay rates and sign-on Season Passes, Team Members receive discounts on dining and retail, advancement and bonus opportunities based on performance, scholarship opportunities, and invitations to team-building activities such as galas and movie nights.

All three parks will continue their commitment to the health and safety of Guests and Team Members by following the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Pennsylvania Department of Health and best practices within the amusement and attractions industries. In-person interviews and orientations will be conducted with facial coverings, social distancing, and strict adherence to indoor capacity limitations. Team Members returning from prior years will be able to participate in online orientations.

Those interested can apply online at the park of their choice: KennywoodSandcastle, or Idlewild. Kennywood’s season begins Saturday, May 8, with Sandcastle and Idlewild opening on Saturday, May 29.


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