Assistant Commentator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Job Description

Job Title: Console Tournament Commentator

Division: Gaming
Department: Console Gaming
Reports to: Console Tournament Lead
Position Type: Unpaid Volunteer
Location: Remote with occasional in-person meetings (location-dependent), expected to be on-site during convention dates.

About Anthro SoCal

Anthro SoCal is a community-driven convention celebrating furry fandom through art, performance, gaming, and social connection. Our success depends on the dedication and enthusiasm of our volunteer team. Anthro SoCal was formally known as Another Furry Con in 2024-2025.

Position Overview

The Console Tournament Commentator is an energetic, articulate, and engaging staff member responsible for providing play-by-play commentary and color analysis for live tournament matches broadcast to our local venue audience. Working directly under the Console Tournament Lead, you will serve as the voice of the competitive gaming area -bringing matches to life, highlighting player narratives, and keeping the crowd informed on bracket progression. This role requires flexibility during event hours, as well as mandatory availability for our marquee Saturday evening charity tournament featuring Rivals of Aether 1 on Switch. If you have a passion for the Fighting Game Community (FGC), a solid grasp of fighting game mechanics, and a natural talent for on-mic entertainment, this position will be a great fit.

Time Commitment

• Year-round: None
• As convention approaches: Attend online staff meetings and trainings when requested
• Convention weekend: On-site presence is required with flexible hours. Presence is required during the Saturday evening charity tournament which is scheduled for Saturday evening 5-8PM
• Pre and post-convention: On-site presence may be required to assist with setup and teardown activities the day before and the day after the event

Key Responsibilities

Your shift will center around live match commentary, crowd engagement, and bracket announcements:

• Live Gameplay Commentary: Provide dynamic, informative, and entertaining play-by-play and color commentary for competitive fighting game matches broadcasted directly to the local audience on the main stage or viewing monitors
• Bracket & Match Announcements: Keep spectators and players updated by clearly announcing upcoming bracket pairings, match results, and call-outs for competitors on deck
• Marquee Event Hosting: Serve as a core broadcast voice for the Console Gaming Charity Tournament (Rivals of Aether 1), scheduled for Saturday evening between 5-8PM, helping drive hype and audience support for the charitable cause
• Collaborative Broadcast Support: Work closely with the Console Tournament Lead, tournament runners, and other staff to ensure match transitions are smooth and commentary stays aligned with tournament schedules

Qualifications

Required:

• Shift Availability & Flexibility: Full availability for all scheduled shifts, including the flexibility to adapt if match schedules run over, and mandatory availability for the Saturday evening charity tournament
• Fighting Game Familiarity: Solid understanding of core fighting game concepts and mechanics, with specific familiarity in at least one or more key titles: Rivals of Aether 1 / 2, Super Smash Bros., Street Fighter 6, and/or Tekken 8
• On-Mic Presence & Articulation: Clear vocal delivery, high energy, and the ability to articulate fast-paced gameplay action in real time without losing composure
• Outstanding Decorum & Hospitality: A friendly, patient, and professional attitude when interacting with attendees, competitors, and fellow staff members

Preferred:

• Prior Tournament Commentary Experience: Previous experience commentating fighting game tournaments, esports broadcasts, or live local events (whether online, at locals, or major conventions)
• Fandom & Convention Knowledge: Strong understanding of furry fandom culture and convention event flows, allowing you to connect authentically with the audience and tailor your commentary style to the community
• Public Speaking & Improv Ability: The ability to handle unexpected tech delays or broadcast downtime with smooth banter, keeping the crowd engaged and entertained

What We Offer

While this is an unpaid volunteer position, we provide:

• Free convention membership and staff perks
• Staff hospitality (meals/snacks during your shifts at-con)
• Exclusive staff events and social opportunities
• Recognition in convention materials
• Experience in event management and team leadership
• A supportive, creative community environment
• References and recommendation letters upon request

Anthro SoCal is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, experiences, and skill levels. All volunteers must be 18 years of age or older.