1

Character Actor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Character Actor

Edwardsville, IL ยท On-site

$10/hr

A character actor is required to be in character at all times. Interacting in meet and greets and attending parties takes great improv skills. Character actors are required to think on their feet and ...

A character actor is required to be in character at all times. Interacting in meet and greets and attending parties takes great improv skills. Character actors are required to think on their feet and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Character Actor information

See salary details

$10

$19

$37

How much do character actor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for character actor in the United States is $19.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is 17 too late to start acting?

Starting a career as a character actor at 17 is not too late, as many actors begin in their late teens or early twenties. Developing acting skills through training, auditions, and experience can lead to opportunities in film, television, or theater regardless of age when starting out.

What do character actors do?

Character actors portray distinctive, supporting roles in film, television, or theater, often playing unique or exaggerated personalities. They focus on developing specific character traits and may use makeup, costumes, and physicality to bring their roles to life. Their work requires versatility, acting skills, and the ability to adapt to different genres and styles.

How do I get into acting with no experience?

To become a character actor with no experience, start by taking acting classes or workshops to develop your skills and understanding of performance. Build a portfolio with headshots and a resume, then seek opportunities through community theater, student films, or open casting calls to gain on-camera experience and exposure.

What are typical work environments and schedules for Character Actors?

Character Actors often work in a variety of settings, including theaters, film sets, television studios, and sometimes theme parks or live events. Schedules can be highly variable, ranging from regular rehearsals to long or irregular filming hours, especially during production periods. Collaboration is key, so Character Actors frequently interact with directors, other cast members, and production crews. Adaptability is important, as each project may require different preparation or performance styles. This diversity in work environments and schedules makes the role dynamic and can lead to a wide range of professional experiences.

What are the 4 types of actors?

In acting, the four main types are classical actors, who perform in traditional theater; method actors, who use emotional memory techniques; character actors, who specialize in playing distinctive supporting roles; and improvisational actors, who perform without scripts. Each type requires different skills and training, and many actors develop proficiency in multiple areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Character Actor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Character Actor, you need strong acting skills, versatility in portraying diverse roles, and typically some formal training in theater or performing arts. Familiarity with audition techniques, industry-standard scripts, and occasionally voice modulation software is beneficial. Excellent improvisation, teamwork, and communication skills help an actor stand out in ensemble casts and collaborative settings. These abilities are crucial for delivering compelling performances and adapting to the varied demands of stage, television, or film productions.

What is a Character Actor job?

A character actor is a performer who specializes in portraying distinctive, often supporting roles in film, television, or theater. Unlike leading actors, character actors focus on creating unique, memorable personalities that enhance a story. They may play a wide range of roles, including comedic, dramatic, or eccentric characters, often transforming their appearance and mannerisms. Their ability to immerse themselves in diverse roles makes them essential to storytelling.

More about Character Actor jobs
What cities are hiring for Character Actor jobs? Cities with the most Character Actor job openings:
What states have the most Character Actor jobs? States with the most job openings for Character Actor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Character Actor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Character Actor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Character Actor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 9% Contract, 10% Nights, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Character Actor

Charming Events STL

Edwardsville, IL โ€ข On-site

$10/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Charming Events StL, providing character experiences, party planning, and special events in the Metro East and St. Louis. Our actors love their work and bringing characters to life for children. It's our goal to provide an Event Package for every budget and make Charming Memories for children.
Job Description
With Charming Events you'll be working as an independent contractor, performing for children's birthday parties, corporate events, and fundraisers. A character actor is required to be in character at all times. Interacting in meet and greets and attending parties takes great improv skills. Character actors are required to think on their feet and be open and friendly with people and kids. Character actors with Charming Events must have a vast knowledge of children's entertainment - Movies, books, music, fairytales and more.
Casting is done based on your natural resemblance to a character. All character actors go through an audition process including singing, improv, reading lines, and roleplaying characters in a short Q&A.
Working as a Character Actor for Charming Events has endless benefits! You will enjoy:
-Opportunities to volunteer for outings to places like children's hospitals and Make-A-Wish events
-Working with like-minded people in your field, who have the same love of entertainment as you
-Being Featured in promotional materials & videos
-Complimentary Food & Drink at large events
-SO MUCH MORE!
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years of age or 16-17 with a working permit
  • Must be able to pass a background check
  • Have previous acting or singing experience
  • Have reliable transportation
  • Must have weekend availability
  • No visible tattoos or unremovable piercings
  • LOVE working with children!

Additional Information
DO NOT APPLY IF YOU:
  • Are timid, soft-spoken and uncomfortable in costumes or makeup
  • Sarcastic with children, often teasing or making a mockery of their beloved characters
  • Do not enjoy working with children
  • Do not have a pleasant demeanor or clean-cut professional appearance.

COMPENSATION:
  • Starting pay rate is $10/hr
  • Opportunity to earn bonus or pay raise based on experience and work performance
  • Character Actor positions often receive tips from clients, in addition to your hourly pay
  • 10% Booking Bonus for referrals made by you!

Once you've applied, we will respond whether or not there is an immediate position for you. We hold on to all applications - Yes, every single one! New characters are always being released, so even if we don't have a space for you right away, there could be a new character down the line, or other opportunities to be involved as Event Staff or a Party Coordinator. If there is a position for you, you will receive an invite to audition for the next available season.
Charming Events STL does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, or age in its programs, activities or employment practices.