Education and Experience
To be a roller coaster engineer, one must have:
- An engineering degree
- Machine design experience
- Great communication skills
- Dedication to rider safety
- Structural and mechanical engineering knowledge
- Familiarity with 3D software for modeling and adjusting
- A strong foundation in science and math
Design, Materials, and Salary
Roller coaster engineers must consider:
- Rider type, material choices, carts, and layout
- Wood and steel as primary materials, with steel being more versatile
- The final speed, weight, and forces in their designs to ensure safety
The engineers work in teams and combine their specialties. Input from the entire team is typical, and an engineering Bachelor’s degree is the norm.
Industry Insights
Roller coaster engineers experience the thrill of their creations and their salary ranges from $38 to $110 per hour. The cost for building a roller coaster starts at about $8 million.