assistant supervisor

ambassador

security officer

food service worker

food & beverage supervisor

SeaWorld

If you want to get into husbandry and animal care with marine species, SeaWorld San Diego is an alright place to start your career, but not a place you want to linger at. The Zoology department team is full of extremely dedicated individuals that work very hard to keep animals in good health. Unfortunately, their work is made very difficult by ignorant, foolish, or downright incompetent upper management. It may sound cliché, but corporate management does not listen to the husbandry team when they explain what the habitats need to provide both a healthy environment for the fish and an appealing experience to the guests. This seems to be a trend within the aquarium world, but it is particularly bad at SeaWorld. Aquarium supervisors have been fighting for years to upgrade the infrastructures of the park (many of them were built in the 60s), but corporate simply does not want to spend money on those. Instead, they are focusing on building more and more rollercoasters, which I guess are less expensive to maintain than live animals. Aquaria: World of Fishes, and the Freshwater Aquarium are both gone, being replaced instead by Explorers Reef (ER) and a tiny, odd-shaped bar tank with a handful of fish in it. The formers were some of the most spectacular exhibits of the park (in my opinion). They used to have alligator gars, freshwater rays, yellowtail amberjacks, white seabass, a large male sheephead, and other incredible species on display that have now been replaced by noticeably smaller exhibits (with poor designs). Both ER and Shark Encounter have terrible (if any) climate control, making them horribly hot places to work in during the summer. Journey to Atlantis (JTA) used to be a mammal pool that was cheaply retrofitted to host fishes instead, but again, corporate management wanted to cut costs and didn't follow the advice of their aquarists, resulting in an exhibit that often looks murky and gloomy to the public. The department usually tries to rotate people to different areas every 6 months or so, trying to help new people familiarize themselves with all the different systems. If you work in the "dive areas," which are JTA and Manta (the large, cold-water aquarium) you will get to dive a lot within the aquaria, which really is one of the best parts of the job. However, if you work at ER, Shark Encounter, Turtle Reef, Ocean Explorer, or (God forbid) in the holding tanks kept away from the public, you will rarely dive, and work will sometimes feel frustratingly challenging or depressing. If you just joined the company, you will likely start at ER to learn about filtration and basics, then you may be moved to the "dive areas" (which are often understaffed) once you are cleared for diving (which can take weeks or even months), and eventually you may transition to some of the other areas. The pay is notoriously low for aquarists, barely above the minimum wage, which is simply unsustainable living in San Diego or California in general. Most aquarists also need to start as part-timers because SeaWorld rarely wants to take you in full-time at first. There are only a few full-time positions, and you can only hope to get in one of those when somebody gets promoted or leaves the department/company, which is not a great prospective. Supervisors at the department try to meet the needs of employees, but their wings are often clipped by corporate management. Because of this, employee retention is extremely low (many leave before their first year), leading to cyclical "mass exodus" within the department, which in turn causes remaining employees to struggle even more due to a lack of staff. Even when understaffed, overtime is strictly forbidden (with very few exceptions) by the company, leaving the 1 or 2 salaried top supervisors to pick up the slack by staying in late or sometimes even having to show up in the middle of the night. Although leaving the department will often hurt the team, your supervisors and co-workers will rarely hold it against you, as they know very well the positions are not that attractive. Supervisors have tried to tell corporate that higher wages are needed but have almost always been dismissed (the last raises happened because California rose the minimum wage and the company was legally forced to do so). Corporate management does not care about employee retention, they will view you as a disposable/replaceable cog in their money-making machine. They recently got rid of the title "Aquarist," replacing it instead with "Zoological Specialist: Fishes." Their explanation was that they wanted the staff to feel like "one big team" with no differences in their titles (people working with mammals are for instance now called "Zoological Specialists: Mammals"), but it all just makes it more confusing for people in the field outside the company to know what your role was, which makes your CV confusing to future employers, and I suspect it may just be another excuse to limit raises or higher pay within the department. Some people have tried to get SeaWorld more involved in research, but it doesn't seem corporate is interested in any of that, only things that can cut costs or make more money. All that being said, if you are strategic with your time there, you can learn a lot while working at SeaWorld. Despite the struggle, the team remains friendly and hardworking, although some can be rough around the edges (mainly due to frustrations with the company). The veterinary and pathological teams are also extremely kind and knowledgeable and have always been very inclusive during their work, teaching the staff about anything they are curious about. There are a lot of valuable skills you can acquire regarding aquarium maintenance and plumbing, husbandry, fish medicine, specimen collection, etc. The animals will also make the work very enjoyable, especially once they start recognizing you and looking for interactions (the octopus is extremely fun to work with). You will however feel the pain of the low wage sooner or later, so I do recommend having an exit plan. Most employees end up leaving once they have enough husbandry experience to get hired at a better paying company/organization. Even some executives have had astoundingly high turnover rates due to their frustrations with the corporate leaders, which really says something about the company. This is all a shame because the remaining team members are dedicated animal lovers that would love SeaWorld to return to its former glory, but unfortunately that power is currently gatekept by greedy top executives.

A Typical Day At Work:

Often times during a normal day working for Seaworld, its very good. Get to interact with people from all over the world, get to have a decently fun workplace, and being able to help make memories with families... plus being able to see the animals is always fun.  But at the same time, its very much a cluster of ducks a some of the time; there's been situations we're understaffed and several times I've been stuck alone at the entrance during opening rush during summer alone trying to cover all the entrances and the tidal wave of people coming into the park... and sometimes having other photographers just not do work and just stand around talking while guests are entering without being offered a photo.

If you are at a ride photo location or a gift shop, its a bit more of a smooth process with dealing with everything and the prior issues are more rare but still prevalent with how breaks are organized only leaving one or two people to cover a massive store with super long lines depending on the season.

-

What I've Learned:

Quite a lot; how to improve with my photos, interacting with people who come into the park and how to improve my work ethic. Overall an amazing place to work how to improve your work as long as you reach for it.

-

Managment:

The people who are managers are(from what I've seen) AMAZING. They are friendly and kind as long as you show them respect and know how to keep an area running properly... when they are there. Most times Supervisors need to do their supervisorial duties over in the staff only areas of the park and we struggle to do anything without having one nearby due to things like lockers and refunds REQUIRING a supervisor to put in their code to do it which can often take about 30-45 minutes if they are swamped in another area.

-

Workplace Culture:

Seaworld from what I've noticed is the best with the culture, people who I interact are PEOPLE and not needing to constantly be in their 'work persona' as I call it of being super nice to guests. Supervisors will help with things that you need and are nice to talk to as well as making sure not to be to strict with punishments if something goes wrong and make sure to help back Ambassadors if a guest is unjustly accusing them of something. Plus occasional once-a-year surveys to voice our concerns about the park and events that help(like free lunches on holidays for those working and Ambassador Town Halls to discuss the future of the park)

-

Hardest Part of The Job:

Honestly... the only hard things of the job were needing Supervisors to assist things as previously mentioned and occasionally being told to do a massive project or something similar without help. There has been days where we had merchandise stacked to the roof of a store and only one person to unload and destock it with about an hour-thirty before park opening to get the store ready. That isn't on the staff or supervisors... just how things are scheduled.

-

Most Enjoyable:

I have a lot of things I enjoy working there but for me I more enjoy being able to interact with guests from all over the world and helping them make memories like what happened when I was a kid... Plus the animals, cheap lunch and free tickets are also a nice bonus. As well as an APP that assists with hours and makes the situation of picking up or getting rid of hours streamlined.

SeaWorld is a place that cares about its animals especially, the environment, and also about its team members. The HR staff, managers, and assistant managers, and even the park president, listen to your concerns and keep team members in the loop with engaging, quarterly meetings, and a daily newsletter. The park president also sets up a specific times periodically where you can specifically tell him about concerns you'd like addressed directly. Team Members also have special preview nights for particular events for themselves and their family members to enjoy before the general public gets to enjoy it. Not only that, but you get a good discount, and have an all access pass and can come and enjoy the park on your day off without cost. 

Working there can be fun, but if you don't work in the restaurants or in the shops, or in the administration building, you are subject to Mother Nature's whims, as you will be working outside.The attendance is also affected by Mother Nature. If the weather is rotten, not many people will be there, and it will be a really slow day. Always carry sunblock and a water bottle. It is also slow on weekdays. 

SeaWorld also HIGHLY respects the military, and when the anthem plays at 9:00 a.m. everyday, ALL team members are required to freeze, and put their hand/hats over their heart, and face the flag. 

You can also log in online and check your schedule and make requests at least 2 weeks in advance, and check out all your employee information. 

The hardest parts of the job are working only weekends during the season you're there (last I heard, it's 6 months on, 6 months off), except during spring break, summer, and holiday vacations. You have to take a second job, or maybe even a third. You don't make much. True, you get raises each year, but only in small increments. You may also apply for an on the job trainer, assistant supervisor, supervisor, and manager. About 2/3 of the staff, maybe more, are in high school or college. 

The weather during the summer can be oppressive. 

The park is big, and it can be quite a hike to work from security (at least you'll get exercise), or you can wait for the shuttle. 

If you take the bus, give yourself a couple hours or so to get to the security stop. If you drive, leave the house 45 minutes or more before your shift. You have to find parking, then either wait for the tram or to give yourself time to walk to your location. 

Sometimes the guests can be tough to please and can be quite rude, especially on holidays.

SeaWorld is a theme park. That being said, there's going to be thousands upon thousands of people swarming the park, and depending on which department you work in, you're going to be dealing with hundreds of guests throughout your shift. Expect to on your toes for quite a while, especially if you plan on working in the Culinary department, which is the largest department that SeaWorld has.

The work experience however, is amazing. From my own personal experience, the supervisors are there for you when you need them. Sure, there might be some that are less than satisfactory, but you'll find some in almost every job environment, so it's of no surprise, really. The people you meet and the memories you'll make while you work here are so invaluable, it's awesome! 

The people you work with in this company varies from department to department, and which specific area you're assigned to. Because SeaWorld is such a huge park, you have the flexibility to transfer between departments if necessary (if you feel uncomfortable working just under one), but aside from that, they're really cool. You might encounter a few people that slack on the job and it can get to be a real pain, especially when it's busy season, so be prepared for that.

Ultimately, working at SeaWorld is fun and it's worth it, in my opinion. Opportunities for advancement within the company isn't difficult at all, and you can speak to your management about it if you're interested. The pay is also relatively decent depending on where you're working, really.

But beware if you manage to work while you go to school! I will say that SeaWorld isn't very kind to those who work and go to school at the same time. Sure, it is VERY possible to work here as well as go to school, I've seen multiple people do so. However, it is very taxing/energy-draining, because most of your day and energy would probably be spent at work, rather than just conserving it for school-related things, sadly.

Another thing to keep note is that communication is essential. There has been more than one occurrence in which my supervisors were not all on the same page, and they would tell me all sorts of different things to do. It gets annoying after a while, and it's something that they could definitely work on. Better communication with supervision works, as well. 

My park was Discovery Cove, working primarily at Laguna Cafe and the snack bars, but also in the employee break room. Laguna is the only full-service restaurant in Discovery Cove, to preserve the illusion of a remote island getaway. To start with, the management team there is fantastic and one of the best ones I've ever worked for. I could go talk to them about almost anything if I needed to, especially if I was having an off-day and needed 5 minutes. Their compassion and empathy are unparalleled. A typical day consists of prepping "cold" foods like fruits and salad, or plating wraps and pastries. Responsibilities also include stocking plates and silverware, keeping the drink stations full with coffee, stocking condiments for both food and drink, and serving alcohol. What alcohol you serve depends on your location and what package the guest bought. In Laguna, for example, there are only 4 choices; red wine, white wine, and two different beers. Whereas if you are at the snack bars scattered throughout the park, there is more of a variety for the upgraded drink package, including a larger beer selection and mixed drinks. I learned a bit about bar-tending while there, as well as learning to ask for help when I need it. I'd been so used to having to do for myself with other jobs that it was a difficult lesson to learn, but the camaraderie amongst my coworkers helped me to feel at ease. They were a rewarding team to work with, each one having their own quirks and jokes, and nobody was left out of the playful atmosphere. They really became a family to me, and I miss them all terribly. The hardest part of the job is keeping up with keeping everything stocked because of the volume of guests we have come through in a day. I'm not kidding when I say it is fast-paced. The most enjoyable part of the job was the fact that the management didn't just stay behind the scenes; they were on the line with us, helping make sure everything went smoothly and treating us like equals and friends instead of just employees. It goes back to what I already said; they are, hands-down, the best management team I've ever had the privilege of working with. If you have the chance to work at Discovery Cove specifically in a food service position, jump on it. It is truly a wonderful experience that I wouldn't trade for the world.

Nothing is ever easy, I'm aware. For this being my first job, I would recommend it. As for the responsibilities you are given, it isn't enough for what they pay you. A typical day at work: going through security, then walking or waiting for a small bus/shuttle to take you to a part of the area near where you are assigned(normally staff won't take the shuttle because they take too long and you risk being late in some cases), then making it to your station where you must check in. As for myself I worked at Shamu's Smokehouse and we were always busy. They had me work as the cashier and if we weren't busy then we were cleaning constantly, even when there was nothing more to clean. Lunch/break is very short, about 30 minutes. You have a choice to either bring our own food, don't eat, or buy from the SeaWorld(which prices are way over priced, even with the employee discount). They also have a employee food area at Harbor Market or the place outside the park, that offers good prices but there hours don't always work with your break time or it's too far and you won't have enough time. No paid vacation but, easy access to calling in. I never got injured in my time of working at SeaWorld, other than the leg pains from always standing. There is sometimes late working days. Toward the end of your shift you must go through security again, either by walking or by waiting awhile for the shuttles. In some cases you will walk in complete darkness, just to get to the security area. One thing to consider in this job is that you are the one to get most of the complaints from the guest(customers/park goers.) I was in most cases not responsible for the food being served, but got most of the complaints from the guest about it. Being the cashier, I did get yelled at and arguments do happen, from/by the guests. So don't get easily offended or surprised if it happens to you. It is something that happens often especially if its during the hotter weather times. The most enjoyable part of this job is being able to assist and greet guests. As well as get free tickets to both SeaWorld and the water park. In some cases, the a/c didn't work and we were still authorized to work.

One thing I want to get clear for prospective bartenders applying is that the $14 an hour wage that is listed on the company's ad for the bartender position is only the compensation Seaworld gives you if you do not make at least that much per hour in tips. But the important part is that it's based on the tips reported for the entire pay period (which is two weeks), not for each day. 

e.g. if you have 5 very low income days then 2 very high income days, the 2 days could potentially cover the other 5 days and the compensation to get you to the $14 an hour from Seaworld would be lower than if they compensated you for each individual day.
 
I don't think the company was being intentionally misleading in their ad for the position, I just wanted to clarify this for incoming applicants. Your actual wage is a server wage, $2 - $3 per hour, and most of your income comes from tips.

The hardest part of working here is that the prices for the drinks are higher than elsewhere and this disinclines customers to tip the bartenders. And this problem compounds in the off-season, like late winter, because there is less business. 

Tips for incoming applicants is join for Halloween and Spring Break, which are some of the busiest times of the year.

As far as actually working there, it is very easy and not very laborious. The Lonestar bar is pretty much a full bar and it's free pour. They have a modest selection of spirits and a draft beer and an even smaller selection of wines. You don't need any previous experience. Most customers order from the menu and half of the drinks on the menu are pre-made. 

I think the income made is pretty good for young people that are just looking for extra cash. The management is pretty receptive and always try to accommodate for problems that may occur. I enjoyed the people I work with because I felt like they were always willing to help me if I needed it and I always tried to reciprocate. 


This review serves as a cautionary account for individuals contemplating the position of an "ambassador" at a specific establishment. It recounts a challenging experience characterized by disillusionment and harsh realities.

One notable aspect is the remuneration. The compensation of $11.50 per hour may be deemed significantly below industry standards, suggesting that the company places little value on its employees and their contributions.

Furthermore, the work environment is described as lacking in motivation, with team members often displaying a lackadaisical attitude. Minimum effort is celebrated rather than striving for excellence, which can be disheartening. Management is portrayed as ineffective, lacking essential leadership skills and failing to inspire their subordinates.



Regarding career advancement, prospects appear grim. Promotions within this organization yield minimal pay increases, potentially undermining motivation and recognition for dedicated employees. The limited financial rewards are disheartening.

Language barriers are another challenge .The majority of coworkers struggle to understand English, hindering effective communication and causing frustration for those seeking to convey information.

In terms of benefits, although some exist, they are  insufficient to compensate for the job's overall dissatisfaction. Access to parks may be a small perk, but it fails to outweigh the overwhelming boredom and discontent that pervade daily work.


offering little but broken promises and a lack of regard for employees' happiness and welfare. It is advised to seek alternative employment where individuals are valued, respected, and treated as essential members of the team.

I worked in Photo Merchandise. I started out in the ACC Center which no longer does photos. It was easy to understand and my first time handling money. I love the money system of Sea World. I don't have to worry about being blamed for money missing, because only me and my manager(supervisor) has access to my drawer. After the ACC Center was closed, I moved to work at Steel Eel photo location. There were moments of busy and slow, because the only time you had to sell photos, was when people would ride the roller coaster. Being right next to lockers, I had to manage those. I gave out change and had to occasionally help people unlock them. The managers and supervisors were fun and always happy. We did have an amount of stuff to sell or make every day, but it wasn't that hard. I don't think I ever missed the mark. Advancement is easy too. A supervisor was pushing me to become an assistant, because I was doing so well. I wanted to, but I ended up moving a little too far to continue working there. I no longer had a ride to work and wouldn't be paid enough to pay for gas to have someone take me. One thing I enjoyed about working at Sea World is that everyone had a positive attitude and it was contagious. Go to work in not so good a mood and by the time you clock in, you've been greeted so many times that you now have a big smile on your face for the rest of the day. At least this was my experience. Also you always get your break. They have a break system where every so many hours of working you get a 30 min lunch break, and maybe a 15 min break if you really need it. They seemed to understand the concept of working for so many hours and needing a small break.

SeaWorld is having a tough time these days. It’s trying to overcome an unfortunate PR situation but it’s doing its best. I firmly believe in the company and its goals. But what is keeping at least the San Diego park from being a better experience for its professional position employees is the lack of competitive pay compared to comparable positions elsewhere. If you get a full time job there, expect to have a second job to make ends meet. The perks, tickets and free lunches you get throughout the year DO NOT pay the bills at home. So many of us are struggling to make ends meet in these expensive cost-of-living times. Benchmarking is rarely done or the data is disregarded as equal to what the company pays even though other businesses pay more for even entry level positions. The company depends on hiring qualified, enthusiastic people for various positions. But so many good employees leave before too long because they just can’t make ends meet financially. So SeaWorld loses out on good, long term labor who will go the distance for the company. There seems to be no end in sight for this mentality. I don’t suggest working at SeaWorld unless you have a fair amount in savings already, can be ok with earning less than what you’re worth or taking on a worthwhile second job on a regular basis. 
The stock price seems to be holding steady but no employee is benefitting from that. If you do a good job, you’re rewarded with more work. Not more pay. Think carefully before considering a job there purely for practical living wage reasons.

Top Job Titles	Average Salary
Assistant supervisor 3 salaries reported	$17.50 per hour
Ambassador 3 salaries reported	$16.90 per hour
Security officer 2 salaries reported	$20.00 per hour
Food service worker 2 salaries reported	$16.90 per hour
Food & beverage supervisor 2 salaries reported	$18.50 per hour

Working at SeaWorld: Company Overview and Reviews

SeaWorld

SeaWorld Ratings

Popular jobs at SeaWorld

Salary Satisfaction

Job Seeker Tools

Employer Tools

Browse

Stay Connected