Quick Answer: Dollywood is a nationally recognized theme park and resort complex located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in the Great Smoky Mountains. Apply online at dollywood.com/careers. Positions include ride operators, food service workers, retail associates, entertainment performers, and seasonal hospitality staff. Many seasonal roles are open to applicants 16 and older, and the park hires thousands of team members each year for its spring-through-fall operating season.
How to Apply at Dollywood
Dollywood manages hiring through its online careers portal at dollywood.com/careers, with hiring typically beginning in January and February for the upcoming spring season.
- Visit dollywood.com/careers to view current openings by category.
- Create an account and apply for your preferred role and department.
- Dollywood frequently conducts group hiring events and job fairs during the pre-season hiring period.
- Candidates for supervisory, entertainment, or specialized roles typically progress to individual interviews.
- A background check is conducted for all hired team members.
- All new hires complete Dollywood’s paid new team member orientation before starting.
Dollywood Positions and Pay
| Position | Pay Range | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Operator | $14–$17/hr | Seasonal |
| Food & Beverage Team Member | $13–$17/hr | Seasonal |
| Retail Associate | $13–$16/hr | Seasonal |
| Entertainment Performer | $15–$22/hr | Seasonal / Year-round |
| Hotel Front Desk Agent | $15–$19/hr | Year-round |
| Park Supervisor | $18–$24/hr | Year-round |
| Department Manager | $50,000–$70,000/yr | Year-round |
Application Requirements
Most entry-level seasonal positions at Dollywood require applicants to be at least 16 years old. Ride operators typically require applicants to be 18 due to equipment operation requirements. Hotel front desk, supervisory, and management roles require applicants to be 18 or older. No prior theme park experience is required for most entry-level roles. Entertainment performer positions require an audition. Food service roles may require food handler certification. A background check is required for all positions. Candidates must be able to work weekends, holidays, and during Dollywood’s peak events.
Benefits at Dollywood
Seasonal team members receive complimentary and discounted Dollywood admission for personal use and immediate family during the employment period. Full-time year-round employees receive access to a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan, and paid vacation time. Dollywood’s culture emphasizes a family-friendly and values-driven workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dollywood hiring year-round or only seasonally?
Most positions are seasonal, running roughly from late winter through early January. Year-round positions exist in hotel operations, management, culinary, and some maintenance roles. The bulk of hiring happens in January and February each year.
Can I audition to perform at Dollywood?
Yes. Dollywood holds performer auditions each year for its live entertainment lineup. Auditions cover vocals, dance, and instrumental performance. Check dollywood.com/careers for audition dates and requirements.
Does Dollywood hire people under 18?
Yes. Many food service, retail, and select operations roles accept applicants as young as 16. Ride operator and supervisory positions typically require applicants to be 18 or older.
Do Dollywood employees get free park admission?
Yes. Team members receive complimentary and discounted admission for personal use and family members during the employment period. Some restrictions apply depending on role and employment status.