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Acting Extra Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

... actors and key groups responsible for coordinating cyber campaigns and disseminating propaganda. This is an on-campus position. Position reports to Dr. Nitin Agarwal (nxagarwal@ualr.edu), Maulden ...

Are you a: * bartender * actor/actress * performer * tour guide * or storyteller? Then we've got just the gig for you! Have a blast and make some extra cash with US Ghost Adventures as a haunted pub ...

Are you a: * bartender * actor/actress * performer * tour guide * or storyteller? Then we've got just the gig for you! Have a blast and make some extra cash with US Ghost Adventures as a haunted pub ...

Tour Guide - Pub Crawl

Antioch, TN · On-site

$35 - $75/hr

Are you a: * bartender * actor/actress * performer * tour guide * or storyteller? Then we've got just the gig for you! Have a blast and make some extra cash with US Ghost Adventures as a haunted pub ...

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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 13, 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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Cities with the most Acting Extra job openings:

What states have the most Acting Extra jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Acting Extra jobs?

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

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.

Seasonal Scare Actor

Tampa, FL • On-site

$15/hr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

SEASONAL POSITION

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
 

Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for fresh blood, so if you want to be part of the haunt, now is the time!  Howl-O-Scream Season is open September through November 2026, get in NOW!
Schedule your audition time! Auditions will take place most Friday and Saturdays through August. More details provided upon scheduling.
Compensation:
First Year: $15 per hour
Returner: $15.50
Incentive Pay Starting 9/24: Work 5 productive hours after 6pm on event nights and earn an extra $1 on the hour!

What you get to do:

  • Performing as characters to startle and scare guests at Busch Gardens Tampa Howl-O-Scream
  • Consistently performing multiple scares repetitively throughout the night of the event (some scare positions may involve strenuous physical activity).
  • Being responsible for clocking in and out at the beginning and end of assigned shifts.
  • Taking and implementing direction from persons of authority.
  • Maintaining a tidy and safe work area.
  • Working well with a diverse group of co-workers.
  • Performers are expected to supply their own black pants, black socks, black shoes, and black shirt.

What it takes to succeed:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must be available to work potentially between 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM on rehearsal and event nights
  • Must be available majority of event nights. Availability will be one factor used in determining employment offer and/or role placement.
  • Many, but not all positions, require wearing makeup (provided by BGT). Some positions require wearing a costume mask, helmet, wig, or hat (provided by BGT).
  • Costumes for characters will be provided by BGT and will remain the property of BGT.
  • Must be able to perform assigned character for up to 2 hours at a time. Performance may include standing, walking, or other strenuous physical activity.
  • Perform the following physical activities on a frequent basis: stand, walk, climb, bend floor-to-waist/waist-to-overhead and reach overhead, simple grasp, and fine manipulation task.
  • Work both indoors and outdoors, exposed to a variety of weather conditions.
  • Position may be exposed to heat/cold temperature extremes, chemical, fumes/dust/odor, atmospheric lighting/strobe lighting/dim lighting
  • Based on needs and availability, some positions may not work every night of the event.

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways
     

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.