ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Actors Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Herschend

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Altoona, IA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

A scare actor will help to provide the guests a unique experience by working in a haunted maze, a scare zone, or as a roaming actor. This position plays an integral part of making the attractions ...

Hfecorp

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Altoona, IA

$16 - $21/hr

A scare actor will help to provide the guests a unique experience by working in a haunted maze, a scare zone, or as a roaming actor. This position plays an integral part of making the attractions ...

Cornell College

Mascot

Mount Vernon, IA

... acting as recognizable brand ambassadors to create a fun, unifying fan experience. They use acrobatics, humor, and unique personalities to engage everyone from kids to adults

Cornell College

Mascot

Mount Vernon, IA · On-site

... acting as recognizable brand ambassadors to create a fun, unifying fan experience. They use acrobatics, humor, and unique personalities to engage everyone from kids to adults Equal Opportunity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsActors JobsActors Jobs in Iowa

Actors information

See Iowa salary details

$6

$25

$62

How much do actors jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for actors in Iowa is $25.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $20.77 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 skills, stage presence, and often formal training in drama or performing arts. Familiarity with audition processes, script analysis software, and sometimes union memberships like SAG-AFTRA are typical in the profession. Adaptability, emotional intelligence, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that help actors connect with their audience and colleagues. These abilities are essential for delivering authentic performances, building a professional reputation, and succeeding in a highly competitive industry.

What kind of jobs do actors have?

Actors work in various settings including film, television, theater, commercials, and voice-over roles. They perform scripted or improvised roles, often requiring skills in acting, memorization, and sometimes singing or dancing, depending on the production. Many actors also participate in rehearsals, auditions, and may need to adapt to different schedules and environments.

How do I get a job as an actor?

To get a job as an actor, you should develop your acting skills through training or classes, create a professional portfolio or headshot, and gain experience through auditions, community theater, or student films. Building a network in the industry and staying persistent are also important for securing acting roles.

What is the difference between Actors vs Performers?

AspectActorsPerformers
CredentialsActing training, drama schools, auditionsVaries widely; may include dance, music, or specialized skills
Work EnvironmentTheaters, film sets, TV studiosStage, film, TV, live events, or other entertainment venues
Industry UsagePrimarily in film, television, and theaterBroader, includes all entertainment forms

Actors are a subset of performers focused mainly on acting roles in theater, film, and TV. Performers encompass a wider range of entertainment skills, including singing, dancing, and other stage or screen acts. While all actors are performers, not all performers are classified strictly as actors. Understanding this distinction helps when searching for job opportunities or training programs in the entertainment industry.

Is 17 too late to start acting?

Actors can start their careers at any age, including 17, as many successful actors began later than childhood. Developing acting skills through training, auditions, and experience is key, and age should not be a barrier to entering the profession.

What are actors?

Actors are professionals who portray characters in theater, film, television, or other performing arts media. They use their voice, body, and emotions to bring scripts and stories to life, often working under the direction of a director. Actors may perform live on stage or be recorded for movies and TV shows, and their work requires memorization, improvisation, and collaboration with other artists. Training and experience can help actors hone their craft and find opportunities in a competitive industry.

Is Netflix looking for actors?

Netflix often hires actors for its original productions, and casting calls are typically posted through industry channels, casting websites, or talent agencies. Actors interested in working with Netflix should have an acting portfolio, audition skills, and relevant experience, and they may need to attend open casting calls or submit headshots and resumes online.

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 in unfamiliar or high-pressure environments, and maintaining energy during long shooting days. Overcoming these challenges typically involves being well-prepared, flexible, and open to direction. Building strong communication with the director and fellow cast members can help create a supportive environment, while self-care routines and staying focused between takes contribute to sustained performance quality.
What are popular job titles related to Actors jobs in Iowa? For Actors jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Actors jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Actors jobs in Iowa are:
Actors jobs near you
Infographic showing various Actors job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,447 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Herschend

Altoona, IA • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave-and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with over 40 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.
While each brand offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service-what we call Heartspitality®-the intersection of heart and hospitality.
As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect.
Do you like to scare people? Do you like to do scary make-up? Do you love Halloween? If you answered "YES" to these questions, then we have a position for you!
A scare actor will help to provide the guests a unique experience by working in a haunted maze, a scare zone, or as a roaming actor. This position plays an integral part of making the attractions come to life! Ideal candidates have an enthusiasm for acting and creativity and are willing to transform into a frightening creature through full makeovers and costuming including the use of masks!
We are currently looking for a:
Adventureland Park - Scare Actor
Roles & Responsibilities:
Roles & Responsibilities:
  • Entertain guests with frighteningly fun performances by delivering realistic and scary performances!

  • Consistently remain in character throughout the entirety of scheduled shifts, which involve walking, running, making noises, changing posture, or using props

  • Effectively scare guests as they move through the scare zones throughout the park

  • Greet and interact with all guests in the scariest manner possible

  • Demonstrate control, restraint, and awareness to minimize the escalation of situations in which a guest may get overly scared

  • Maintain a safe environment by keeping at least an arm's distance between self and each guest, keeping escape routes clean, and following all safety standards

  • Use a variety of props, lights, or noise makers to enhance the scare experience

  • Maintain a clean and safe work environment

  • Comply with all park policies, procedures, and labor laws

  • Proactively monitor assigned areas and quickly identify and escalate any safety hazards or other risks to the proper authorities

  • All other duties as assigned by leadership

Language: Ability to read, write, and speak fluent English; Spanish or other bilingual language skills are a plus.
Education and Experience:
  • No education requirements for this position; just a passion for scaring!

  • Previous haunt experience preferred, but not required

Requirements:
  • Must successfully pass an audition and/or character training for this role

  • Must be at least 16 years of age to comply with Iowa Child Labor Laws

  • Ability to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays (including Halloween, if open)

  • Ability to work 20+ hours per week, when needed

  • Must have reliable transportation to and from work for your scheduled shift

  • Must comply with all grooming standards, uniform and/or costume requirements

  • Ability to immerse in role and remain in character throughout the performance

  • Must possess strong cardio endurance, physical story-telling abilities, and performance energy

  • Must be playful, outgoing, friendly, and convey a positive, guest-centric attitude

  • Must possess effective verbal and non-verbal acting and communication skills

  • Ability to follow direction, multi-task, and work as part of a fast-paced team

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, and remain on feet for majority of the workday

  • Ability to wear assigned costume for extended periods of time

  • Ability to frequently stoop, twist, kneel, bend, squat, or reach above shoulders

  • Ability to perform in costumes that may have limited sight lines

  • Ability to carry, push, pull, lift, and hold objects weighing 30 pounds or more

Working Conditions:
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor and indoor areas of the park

  • Subject to extreme warm or cold temperatures during the autumn months

  • Frequent exposure to the variable outside temperatures (both in and out of costume), including high heat, cold, direct sun, humidity, dust, rain, snow, ice, and other weather conditions

  • Subject to frequent interruptions, constant repetitive motion, high noise levels, flashing lights, strobe lights, dark and shadowy environments, and heavily populated areas

Working at Adventureland Park is about making people happy! It's about being independent and having fun, making new friends and earning extra money while doing so. As a Adventureland Park employee, you can be the smiling face that makes a great first impression for incoming guests, a cook that serves up tasty treats and culinary delights, a lifeguard who soaks up the sun while keeping guests safe, or a ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights!
Team member benefits:
Park Perks & Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule

  • Ability to cross-train and learn unique skills across various departments

  • Free admission to Adventureland Theme Park/Waterpark and select Entertainment parks on your days off

  • Invitations to exclusive company-sponsored employee events throughout the season

We've got great jobs for people just starting out in the workforce, looking for a second job or staying active after retirement. If you want a fun, flexible job with an innovative company, look no further than Adventureland Park. Apply today!
Do not miss the chance to spark your career now!
Do not miss the chance to spark your career now!

Apply