Credit: Disney, CanvaWalt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort cast members often take on roles that require special skills, dedication, and sometimes bravery. From performers in high-flying shows to technicians working behind the scenes, the variety of tasks can expose them to potentially dangerous situations.
These jobs are integral to creating the magic that Disney is known for, but they also come with risks that are not always apparent to the guests.
Disney theme parks are renowned for their magical experiences and enchanting attractions, but behind the scenes, there are jobs that come with significant risks.
While Disney prioritizes safety and implements rigorous protocols, certain roles within the parks are considered more hazardous due to their unique nature and responsibilities. Here’s a closer look at some of the most dangerous jobs at Disney theme parks and how the company manages these risks.
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Being a Disney Cast Member
Disney cast members play a vital role in ensuring that every guest’s visit is memorable. Their responsibilities range from operating rides and managing guest services to performing in parades and shows. Every role, whether backstage or front-of-house, contributes to the park’s seamless operation and guest satisfaction.
One such example is the performers who bring beloved characters to life in parades or meet-and-greets. Their costumes may be intricate but can also be heavy and cumbersome, requiring performers to endure long hours under hot conditions. In addition to the physical strain, they must also be aware of their surroundings to prevent accidents in crowded areas.
Just this year, a group of character cast members came out with their stories of the physical damage from being a character performer. One cast member fighting for a connection to the Actors Equity Association described their eyes being dyed black from the costume itself.
On another note, technicians who handle pyrotechnics or work with complex machinery face risks that come with operating equipment essential for the shows and attractions.
These individuals undergo rigorous training, but there is always a level of danger involved in working with such equipment. Despite the precautions Disney takes to ensure safety, these cast members put themselves at risk every day to entertain and create memorable experiences for park guests.
It is crucial to acknowledge the dedication and skill required for these roles, as well as the bravery it takes to perform them day in and day out.
While working at Disney is a dream for some, it is not all magical for others. In fact, some cast members describe their roles as grueling and potentially dangerous. In a study from MagicGuides revealed earlier this year, Glassdoor reviews were used to rank the best and worst jobs at the Disney theme parks.
The Best (And Worst) Jobs at Disney
While the magic of Disney is enchanting for visitors, behind the scenes, employees in these high-risk roles face unique challenges and dangers to deliver unforgettable experiences. It is their dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence that truly makes the magic happen, even in the face of adversity and risk.
Interestingly enough, many of the most enjoyable jobs at The Walt Disney Company happen outside of the theme parks in the company’s corporate setting. According to this data, the top 10 best jobs at Disney are:
- Intern (74.38/100)
- Procurement (65.73/100)
- Senior Management (65.38/100)
- Architect (64.64/100)
- Legal (61.28/100)
- Account Management (60.71/100)
- Research (59.98/100)
- Working with Animals (59.40/100)
- Director (57.49/100)
- Finance (56.98/100)
On the flip side, the nine worst jobs, as ranked by this report, happen to be mainly within the theme park division. Famously, park cast members around the world have organized numerous strikes for better treatment and contracts. The list, which ranks #1 as the worst job, is:
- Mechanic (23.79/100)
- Costume (23.91/100)
- Construction (28.67/100)
- Transportation (29.64/100)
- Guest Serice (32.57/100)
- Executive Assistant (33.62/100)
- Security (36.09/100)
- Food (36.83/100)
- Logistics (37.25/100)
The Reality of Being a Mechanic at Disney
As the data shows, mechanics are the most unhappy employees at Disney. At theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, these mechanics can work around the clock, providing maintenance to theme park attractions.
Ride maintenance technicians play a critical role in ensuring that attractions operate safely and efficiently. They are responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining complex ride systems, including roller coasters, simulators, and water rides. These technicians often work at height, handle heavy machinery, and work in confined spaces, which poses a variety of risks.
Disney employs a comprehensive safety program for ride maintenance, including regular safety training, stringent inspection routines, and the use of advanced safety equipment. Technicians follow detailed safety protocols and procedures to minimize risks. However, the job is still not always enjoyable to guests.
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When discussing the dangers and difficulties in working in attraction maintenance, water-based attractions come to mind, and some of them are the most difficult to maintain. With attractions like “It’s a Small World,” Jungle Cruise, and Pirates of the Caribbean, mechanics must work in and around the water of the ride.
Unfortunately, due to wear and tear, the water of these attractions is not particularly clean. In fact, one former cast member revealed that while working at the Pirates of the Caribbean, they would have to get a tetanus vaccine if their eyes, mouth, or nose entered the water. The source said:
“i worked at WDW and evaluated pirates more times than i could count in the water. if your eyes/mouth/nose went under the water, Disney would make you get a tetanus shot. I would not recommend drinking it or even really touching it more than necessary”
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Maintaining the Magic
Being a Disney cast member is not a small feat; it is a sometimes grueling job that requires major personal and physical sacrifices. The next time you visit a Disney theme park, perhaps think twice about all the things cast members do that you may take for granted.
While Disney theme parks strive to create a safe and magical experience for guests, the safety of their employees remains a top priority. By implementing robust safety measures and providing specialized training, Disney aims to mitigate the risks associated with these challenging roles.
As the company continues to evolve and expand, it remains committed to enhancing safety protocols and ensuring that all cast members work in a safe and supportive environment. The dedication to safety not only protects employees but also ensures that the magic of Disney can be enjoyed by guests for years to come.