Bay Beach changes hours of operation amid staffing shortages

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) - Bay Beach opens up Saturday... but the fun starts an hour later each day because of a staffing shortage.

Visitors can catch a ride on the Zippin Pippin or hop aboard the train between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. for most of the summer. Previously, ride-goers could enjoy the park from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

That’s because there’s a need for 20 more ride operators.

The magic number is 80 ride operators to be fully staffed.

Faculty Supervisor Britney Burkart-Labar said she’s getting a steady influx of applications, but it’s hard to set up interview appointments. She’s offering in-person or virtual meetings, plus incentives.

“If we were to open 10 to nine...” Burkart-Labar began, “We would have to look at closing some rides or closing some days. We didn’t want to do that. We’d rather have all of our rides open every day. It might be shorter hours, but we’re still keeping that fun experience for the summer.”

The amusement park is still looking for ride operators who are at least 18 years old. Starting pay is $14.19 an hour plus up to $100 in sign-on and end-of-year bonuses. Friend referrals get you an extra $25.

“I don’t know what else we can do, I guess,” Burkart-Lamar said.

Changes to staffing could mean altering hours of operation once more.

To apply for a ride operator position, visit governmentjobs.com.

Another heads up: opening weekend could look a little different inside the park. The Scrambler might not be open due to a missing part that has not arrived. The Bay Beast and Falling Star will be permanently removed.

New rides have not been picked out yet.

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