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Actor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

New Village Arts Inc

Actor

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

New Village Arts is seeking actors for upcoming productions. We are looking for artists who are collaborative, prepared, expressive, and excited to create adventurous theatrical work in a ...

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group

Actor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Actor - Seasonal San Jose CA | Seasonal | Sept - Nov Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment--and proudly the world's largest ...

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group

Actor

San Jose, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Actor - Seasonal San Jose CA Seasonal Sept - Nov Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment-and proudly the world's largest operator ...

Castle Park

Scare Actor

Riverside, CA

$16.90/hr

Join us as a Scare Actor and become part of a vibrant atmosphere filled with dynamic experiences and endless possibilities. Start making your own luck today! Applicants must be at least 18 years of ...

Castle Park

Scare Actor

Riverside, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Join us as a Scare Actor and become part of a vibrant atmosphere filled with dynamic experiences and endless possibilities. Start making your own luck today! Applicants must be at least 18 years of ...

Castle Park

Scare Actor

Riverside, CA · On-site

Join us as a Scare Actor and become part of a vibrant atmosphere filled with dynamic experiences and endless possibilities. Start making your own luck today! Applicants must be at least 18 years of ...

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All JobsActor JobsActor Jobs in California

Actor information

See California salary details

$7

$26

$66

How much do actor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for actor in California is $27.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Actor, you need strong acting ability, script interpretation, and often formal training such as a degree in drama or theater arts. Familiarity with audition processes, on-camera techniques, and sometimes certifications in stage combat or voice work are commonly required. Exceptional creativity, adaptability, emotional intelligence, and collaboration skills set outstanding actors apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering compelling performances, adapting to diverse roles, and building a successful career in a competitive industry.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Actors in high-profile roles, such as leading film stars, television personalities, or successful stage performers, can earn over $1 million annually through salaries, endorsements, and royalties. Achieving this level typically requires significant experience, talent, and visibility in the entertainment industry.

What Does an Actor Do?

An actor portrays a character in film, television, and theater productions. They read the script of a particular production, memorize lines, and study their character. To play a role well, an actor needs to understand the character’s motivations and personality, then embody those characteristics in their performance. In small productions, an actor may be responsible for their own costume and makeup in addition to the actual acting part. They collaborate with other actors as well as directors, producers, writers, costume designers, makeup artists, and acting coaches to create each production.

How do I get a job as an actor?

To become an actor, you should gain acting training through classes or a drama program, build a portfolio with headshots and a resume, and gain experience through auditions, community theater, or student films. Developing skills in improvisation, voice, and movement can improve your chances, and networking within the industry can lead to opportunities.

What is the difference between Actor vs Performer?

AspectActorPerformer
CredentialsActing training, sometimes formal educationVaries; may include acting, singing, dancing, or other skills
Work EnvironmentFilm, television, theater productionsStage, live events, film, television, variety shows
Industry UsagePrimarily in entertainment and mediaBroader; includes entertainment, circus, dance, and live shows
Search IntentCompare acting careers, audition infoPerforming arts opportunities, live performance roles

While both actors and performers work in the entertainment industry, actors primarily focus on portraying characters in film, TV, and theater, often requiring formal acting training. Performers encompass a wider range of live and recorded entertainment roles, including singing, dancing, and variety acts. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and career goals.

What jobs can an actor do?

An actor can work in film, television, theater, commercials, voice-over work, and digital media. They may also pursue roles in stage productions, motion capture, or training and coaching others in acting skills. Success often depends on talent, training, and industry connections.

Is 14 too late to start acting?

Actor careers can begin at any age, and starting at 14 is not too late. Many successful actors began their training and auditions during their teens or later, and developing acting skills, such as taking classes and gaining experience, can improve opportunities regardless of age.

What are some common challenges actors face when working on set, and how can they overcome them?

Actors often encounter challenges such as adapting to last-minute script changes, performing under tight schedules, and maintaining energy during long shoots. Building strong memorization skills, staying flexible, and developing a consistent preparation routine can help actors navigate these hurdles. Additionally, fostering good communication with directors and fellow cast members ensures smoother collaboration and helps address any uncertainties that arise during production.

What does an actor do?

An actor is a professional who portrays characters in various performance mediums such as film, television, theater, or commercials. They interpret scripts, memorize lines, and use their voice, body language, and emotions to bring stories and characters to life. Actors often work closely with directors and other team members to create believable and engaging performances. Their work can involve auditions, rehearsals, and sometimes travel to different locations.
More about Actor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Actor jobs in California? The most popular types of Actor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Actor jobs in California? For Actor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Actor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Actor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Actor jobs? Cities in California with the most Actor job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Actor jobs in CA? For Actor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Actor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Actor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 68% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,158 per year, or $27 per hour.
Actor

Actor

New Village Arts Inc

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

New Village Arts is seeking actors for upcoming productions. We are looking for artists who are collaborative, prepared, expressive, and excited to create adventurous theatrical work in a professional ensemble environment.

Actors at NVA work closely with directors, stage managers, fellow performers, and production teams to bring stories to life onstage. This role requires strong acting ability, professionalism, consistency, adaptability, and a commitment to the rehearsal and performance process.

Key Responsibilities
  • Attend rehearsals, fittings, technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances as scheduled
  • Analyze scripts and develop character choices
  • Memorize lines, blocking, music, choreography, and cues
  • Take direction well and apply notes efficiently
  • Collaborate with cast, creative team, and staff in a respectful and productive manner
  • Maintain performance quality and professionalism throughout the production process
  • Follow all production, backstage, costume, props, and safety procedures
Qualifications
  • Strong acting ability and stage presence
  • Dependability, punctuality, and professionalism
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced artistic environment
  • Availability for the full rehearsal and performance schedule
  • Additional performance skills such as singing, dancing, movement, dialects, or instruments may be preferred depending on the production