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Background Actors Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Tampa

Part-time Seasonal Patient Actor

Tampa, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $20.25/hr

... actors who will portray patients in the Interprofessional Simulation Center in order to provide ... Background Check Requirements Finalists may be required to submit to a criminal background check.

University of Tampa

Part-time Seasonal Patient Actor

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15.25 - $21/hr

... actors who will portray patients in the Interprofessional Simulation Center in order to provide ... Background Check Requirements Finalists may be required to submit to a criminal background check.

Acting Out In Westfield LLC

Be Seen First

Studio Director & Lead Theatre Instructor

Westfield, NJ · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Strong background in theatre, acting, musical theatre, or theatre education. * Experience teaching children and/or teens in a performing arts setting. * Excellent communication and interpersonal ...

Acting Out In Westfield LLC

Be Seen First

Studio Director & Lead Theatre Instructor

Westfield, NJ · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Strong background in theatre, acting, musical theatre, or theatre education. * Experience teaching children and/or teens in a performing arts setting. * Excellent communication and interpersonal ...

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How much do background actors jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for background actors in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get a job as a background actor?

To become a background actor, you should register with casting agencies or online casting platforms that specialize in background work. It helps to have a current headshot, be flexible with scheduling, and understand set etiquette; some roles may require age or appearance matching. Auditions are often not necessary, as many background roles are assigned through casting calls or open calls.

What is the difference between Background Actors vs Extras?

AspectBackground ActorsExtras
CredentialsNo formal credentials requiredNo formal credentials required
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, commercials setsFilm, TV, commercials sets
Industry UsageCommonly used term in castingSynonym for background roles
Search IntentBackground Actors jobsExtras casting

Background Actors and Extras are terms often used interchangeably in the entertainment industry. Both refer to individuals who appear in scenes without speaking roles, primarily filling the background of scenes. While 'Background Actors' is a more formal term, 'Extras' is more commonly used in casting calls. Both roles require no special credentials and work in similar environments, making them essentially the same in practice. Understanding this distinction can help you find the right casting opportunities and better navigate industry terminology.

What are background actors?

Background actors, also known as extras, are performers who appear in non-speaking roles in film, television, and commercial productions. They help create a realistic setting by populating scenes with everyday people, such as pedestrians, restaurant patrons, or audience members. While they typically do not have lines, their presence adds authenticity and atmosphere to the on-screen environment. Background acting is an important entry point for many aspiring performers and is essential for the overall look and feel of a production.

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

To thrive as a Background Actor, you need strong observational skills, reliability, and the ability to follow directions, with no formal qualifications typically required but prior experience is beneficial. Familiarity with film set protocols and a basic understanding of call sheets or casting systems is helpful. Professionalism, adaptability, and patience are soft skills that make someone stand out in this position. These qualities are vital for maintaining set efficiency and contributing to a realistic and seamless production environment.

How much do they pay for background actors?

Background actors typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the production, location, and union status. Some productions may pay a flat rate for a full day or specific scenes, and experience or union membership can influence pay rates.

What are some common challenges background actors face on set, and how can they prepare for them?

Background actors often encounter long hours of waiting between takes and must remain attentive and ready for direction at any moment. Adapting to changing instructions, maintaining continuity in their actions, and staying professional in diverse environments are key challenges. Preparation includes bringing appropriate wardrobe changes, being punctual, and staying patient and flexible. Building strong communication skills and a positive attitude can help background actors succeed and be invited back for future projects.

Can I join backstage with no experience?

Background actors can often join casting calls without prior experience, as many productions seek new talent for non-speaking roles. Basic skills such as punctuality, ability to follow directions, and a professional appearance are typically sufficient for initial casting opportunities. Some productions may require a simple audition or photo submission, but extensive experience is usually not necessary for entry-level background work.

How much money do background actors get paid?

Background actors typically earn between $100 and $200 per day, depending on the production, location, and union status. Unionized background actors may earn higher rates and additional benefits, while non-union roles often pay less. Payment can also vary based on the complexity of the scene and the actor’s experience.
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Background Actors jobs near you

Part Time - Student - Nursing Actor

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform an acting role working with or examining a Standardized Patient under the guidance of a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner via telehealth.

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

181st of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
The Sexual Assault Forensic Examination-Telehealth (SAFE-T) Center within the Ross and Carol Nese College of Nursing is seeking applicants for part-time, as-needed job of nursing student actor.
Job Duties
  • Acting role to work with/examine a Standardized Patient while being guided via telehealth by an expert Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) RN. SAFE-T chaperone will be present in room.

Requirements and Qualifications
  • Upper-class (3rd or 4th year) Nese College of Nursing student or those with basic nursing background
  • Basic-level nursing skills (therapeutic communicator, hands-on patient care experience, safety awareness, patient positioning, infection control practices).
  • Basic-level technology skills (use of smartphone).
  • In-person position at University Park campus location.

Schedule: 3.5 - 4.0 hour commitment per session
Compensation: The starting rate for this job is $20.00 per hour.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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