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Acting Extra Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Fright Fest Scare Actor Auditions

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$15/hr

... extra-curricular activities is helpful but not required. * Must be able to multitask while maintaining a positive attitude to ensure excellent guest service. * Scare Acting can be a physically ...

AEG

Haunt Scare Actor

Doswell, VA · On-site

Overview $13.00 / hour + Haunt Bonus This role is eligible for the Haunt Bonus of $3 extra per hour ... Previous performance or scare acting experience is a plus, but not required.

Herschend

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Altoona, IA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Ideal candidates have an enthusiasm for acting and creativity and are willing to transform into a ... It's about being independent and having fun, making new friends and earning extra money while doing ...

Hfecorp

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Altoona, IA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Ideal candidates have an enthusiasm for acting and creativity and are willing to transform into a ... It'sabout being independent and having fun, making newfriendsand earning extra money while doing so.

Seaworldentertainment

Seasonal Scare Actor

Busch, AR · On-site

$15/hr

Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for ... Work 5 productive hours after 6pm on event nights and earn an extra $1 on the hour! What you get to ...

SeaWorld

Seasonal Scare Actor

Busch, AR · On-site

$15/hr

Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for ... Work 5 productive hours after 6pm on event nights and earn an extra $1 on the hour! What you get to ...

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Acting Extra information

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$33.5K

$69.5K

$104K

How much do acting extra jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for acting extra in the United States is $69,538.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an acting extra?

Acting extras, also known as background actors, are performers who appear in non-speaking roles in films, TV shows, or commercials to help create realistic scenes. They usually blend into the background, portraying everyday people such as pedestrians, customers, or crowd members. While extras don’t have lines or significant roles, their presence is crucial in making a production feel authentic and lively. Extras are typically hired for specific days and don’t require formal acting training, but reliability and the ability to follow directions are important.

What should I expect from a typical day on set as an acting extra?

As an acting extra, your day on set can be quite varied, but typically involves arriving early, checking in with the production team, and waiting for your scenes to be called. Extras often spend significant time in holding areas, so patience is key. Once on set, you'll be given specific instructions for your role in the background, and may need to repeat the same actions across several takes. Collaboration is mainly with other extras, background coordinators, and assistant directors, and maintaining professionalism and attentiveness is essential for a smooth experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an acting extra, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Acting Extra, reliability, punctuality, and the ability to follow directions are essential, with no formal education typically required. Familiarity with set protocols and basic on-camera etiquette is helpful, though formal certifications are rare and not usually necessary. Professionalism, patience, and strong listening skills help extras stand out, as they often work long hours in changing environments. These qualities ensure smooth production workflows, support the main cast, and contribute to the overall success of film or television projects.

What is the difference between Acting Extra vs Background Actor?

AspectActing ExtraBackground Actor
CredentialsNo formal credentials typically requiredNo formal credentials typically required
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, commercials, live eventsFilm, TV, commercials, live events
Employer & Industry UsageProduction companies, casting agenciesProduction companies, casting agencies
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched interchangeably with background actorOften searched interchangeably with acting extra

Acting extras and background actors are terms often used interchangeably in the entertainment industry. Both roles involve appearing in scenes without speaking lines and require no formal acting credentials. The main difference is that "acting extra" is a broader term sometimes used in marketing or casting, while "background actor" is more commonly used in casting calls and industry terminology. Both roles provide opportunities to work on film and TV productions in similar environments.

How much do acting extras make?

Acting extras typically earn between $100 and $200 per day, depending on the location, production budget, and experience. Some extras may receive additional pay for overtime or specific roles, and unionized extras can earn higher rates. Payment is often processed through payroll companies or production companies, and no special certification is usually required.

How to be an acting extra?

To become an acting extra, you should register with casting agencies or online casting platforms, submit recent photos and a resume, and be available for flexible schedules. It helps to have a clean appearance, follow casting instructions carefully, and be prepared for on-location shoots that can last several hours.

How to get a job as an acting extra?

To become an acting extra, you should register with casting agencies or online casting platforms, submit recent photos and a resume, and be prepared for flexible scheduling. Building a basic understanding of set etiquette and having a versatile appearance can improve your chances of getting hired for various productions.
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What states have the most Acting Extra jobs?

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For Acting Extra jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Acting Extra jobs near you
Infographic showing various Acting Extra job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 38% Full Time, 54% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,538 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Haunt Scare Actor

Doswell, VA • On-site

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Six Flags Entertainment Corporationexternal

Temporary

Re-posted 23 days ago

Six Flags rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 532 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
$13.00 / hour + Haunt Bonus
This role is eligible for the Haunt Bonus of $3 extra per hour on operating days, you must work the last weekend of Haunt.
Step into the shadows and bring the thrills to life! As a Haunt Scare Actor, you'll become part of our terrifying team, using movement, voice, and character to deliver unforgettable scares and spine-chilling fun.
Some of our amazing perks and benefits:
  • FREE admission to Kings Dominion and other Six Flags parks!
  • FREE tickets for friends and family!
  • Discounts on food and merchandise!
  • Work with people from here, near, and from all over the world!
  • Exclusive Team Member-only events!

Responsibilities
  • Perform as a scare actor in your designated haunted attraction using movement, voice, and timing.
  • Stay in character while interacting with guests and delivering scares.
  • Pose for photos with guests (where permitted) while maintaining character integrity.
  • Ensure guest and performer safety by identifying and avoiding hazards.
  • Wear required costumes, makeup, masks, and safety gear throughout your shift.
  • Handle props and equipment with care.
  • Assist with attraction setup, cleanliness, and closing procedures.
  • Follow all park policies and performance guidelines. Support fellow performers and crew to create a safe, high-energy environment.
  • Adhere to Entertainment Leadership and Monster Lead on vision of entertainment product

Qualifications
  • You!
  • Must attend a creature casting (audition)
  • Comfortable performing in dark, foggy, or strobe-lit environments.
  • Able to wear masks, prosthetics, and themed costumes for extended periods.
  • Ability to perform repetitive movements and vocalizations with enthusiasm.
  • Previous performance or scare acting experience is a plus, but not required.

What Six Flags employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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