Dollywood Parks & Resorts is heading into 2026 with the energy of a fresh season—and a clear message for job seekers: this is a great time to get in the door at one of the industry’s most respected operators.

Coming off a milestone 40th anniversary season in 2025, The Dollywood Company says it’s continuing to grow across all of its properties—Dollywood, Dollywood’s Splash Country, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa, and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. And with that growth comes a wide range of opportunities, from part-time roles for students to full-time careers with pathways to advancement.

The hiring push includes multiple in-person events scheduled across January and February, designed to make it easy for applicants to connect with the team, get help with the application process, and—in many cases—walk away hired on the spot.

A role for nearly every schedule—and nearly every path

This hiring push includes positions for the full 2026 operating season as well as shorter peak-season roles, ideal for students, summer job seekers, or anyone looking to earn extra money during the Christmas holiday season.

Opportunities are expected across multiple teams, including Dollywood’s culinary and merchandise operations, as well as park operations roles such as ride operators, ticketing, transportation, and house and grounds. At Dollywood’s Splash Country, openings include house and grounds, lifeguards, and culinary services. Dollywood’s lodging properties are also hiring for a variety of positions, including food and beverage, front desk, bell/valet and housekeeping.

The company notes that some new positions may be added for the 2026 season, but the bulk of openings span departments across its parks and resorts—and applicants are encouraged to attend early events for the widest selection of available roles.

The perks aren’t small—and they’re built for real life

Dollywood is also leaning into what it calls the “a little more” factor—benefits that go beyond the usual seasonal job pitch.

Among the highlights: employees receive 100% free tuition through Herschend’s GROW U. program, free lunch every working shift, and competitive wages. There’s also access to the Dollywood Family Healthcare Center, along with complimentary admission to Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country for family and friends.

For qualified full-time employees, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental and vision, plus support that can help beyond the workplace—like assistance with childcare costs for hosts whose children are cared for at an Upwards-affiliated provider. Leadership development opportunities are also available, including an apprenticeship program in conjunction with Walters State Community College.

Add in Park Perks—free or reduced admission to a range of regional attractions, theaters and experiences—and the overall package starts to look less like a seasonal stop and more like a place to build momentum.

When and where to apply (and how to boost your chances)

Job postings for 2026 will be available at dollywoodjobs.com starting Jan. 5, 2026, and the first major hiring event is set for Saturday, Jan. 17 at Sevier County High School from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From there, additional hiring events are scheduled as follows:

• Saturday, Jan. 24 – Morristown Landing (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

• Saturday, Jan. 31 – Jefferson County High School (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

• Saturday, Feb. 7 – Newport Community Center (9 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

• Saturday, Feb. 14 – Sevierville Civic Center (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

• Saturday, Feb. 21 – Seymour High School (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Applicants are encouraged to attend the earliest event possible, since that typically offers the largest selection of available roles. Technical support will also be available at the events to help applicants complete the process if needed. Applicants must be 14 years of age or older.

A workplace reputation that matches the guest experience

Dollywood Parks & Resorts is also positioning this hiring wave as more than staffing up—it’s an invitation to join a workplace culture that’s earned national recognition. The company received a national Top Workplaces award from USA Today/Gannett, recognition from Newsweek tied to theme park customer service, and a recent spot on Forbes’ Best Customer Service 2026 list.

The takeaway is simple: Dollywood wants candidates to see this as a chance to be part of an award-winning organization—one known for creating memorable guest experiences and investing in the people who deliver them.

Ready to take a look?

If you’re curious about what fits your schedule, your skills, or your long-term goals, start by browsing the postings when they go live on Jan. 5, 2026 at dollywoodjobs.com—and if you can, circle the earliest hiring event near you.

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