Kennywood, Idlewild and Sandcastle Hiring More Than 2,500 Team Members for the 2026 Season

• Lynsey Winters

Kennywood, Idlewild and Sandcastle Hiring More Than 2,500 Team Members for the 2026 Season

All Three Properties to Host In-Person Hiring Events Throughout the Winter

PITTSBURGH, PA [January 28, 2026] – Kennywood, Idlewild & SoakZone, and Sandcastle Water Park, Pittsburgh’s Premier Destinations for Family Fun, are gearing up for a full season of thrills as each property begins its hiring efforts ahead of the 2026 season. Kennywood Park is seeking over 1,500 hosts to join its team. Sandcastle Water Park and Idlewild & SoakZone are currently hiring more than 500 hosts across all positions at each property.

To kick off the hiring season, Idlewild & SoakZone will host its first job of the season on Sunday, February 28 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Ligonier Valley Library Community Room. Kennywood and Sandcastle will host dual job fairs on Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Kennywood. Those who attend either job fair will have the opportunity to meet current employees, learn more about available positions, apply, and interview on the spot.

“Working at Kennywood, Idlewild, and Sandcastle offers our hosts more than just a job. It’s a chance to be part of a team that creates fun and lasting memories for our guests every day,” said Kennywood and Sandcastle General Manager Ricky Spicuzza. “From flexible schedules and competitive pay to free park admission and opportunities to grow, we’re proud to offer a workplace that’s welcoming, energetic, and rewarding for hosts of all ages.”

Kennywood, Idlewild, and Sandcastle offer park employees competitive wages with pay starting at up to $15 per hour. Plus, hosts can enjoy unique perks like free admission to all three parks, free tickets to share with friends and family, flexible schedules, scholarship opportunities, exclusive events, and more.

Job opportunities are currently available across all departments including ride operations, security, lifeguards, food and beverage, park services, admissions, and more. No experience is required, and training for each position is done upon accepting an offer. Positions are available for applicants starting at 14 years old, with even more opportunities for those ages 16 and up. Online applications are available now for Kennywood, Idlewild, and Sandcastle.

Kennywood Park will open for the season with its all-new spring event series on Saturday, April 18. Idlewild & SoakZone and Sandcastle Water Park will open for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 23. All three Pittsburgh parks will host a variety of seasonal events throughout the year with the return of fan favorites like Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival, HALLOWBOO!, Phantom Fall Fest, Holiday Lights, and more.

To learn more about the 2026 season, view open positions, and apply online, visit Kennywood.com, SandcastleWaterpark.com, and Idlewild.com.