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Character Actor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experience with costumed acting, theater, improvisation, customer service, or retail is preferred. * The Performance Skill: Ability to improvise naturally, stay in character, and adapt quickly to ...

Animation Director

Burbank, CA · On-site

$3.2K - $3.4K/wk

Reporting to the Supervising Animation Director, the Animation Director will help lead the creative execution of animation throughout production, ensuring that character performance, acting, movement ...

Show exceptional understanding of facial animation, acting, appeal, entertainment, weight, locomotion, anatomy, and dialogue. * Create high-quality, keyframe Character Animation. * Develop the timing ...

Showing results 21-40

Character Actor information

See California salary details

$10

$18

$37

How much do character actor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for character actor in California is $18.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.27 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a character actor?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a character actor?

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 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.

How do you become a character actor?

To become a character actor, you typically need acting training, such as attending a drama school or taking acting classes, and gain experience through auditions, community theater, or film projects. Developing a versatile skill set and building a strong portfolio can help you land diverse roles in film, television, or theater productions.

How much do character actors get paid?

Character actors' pay varies depending on the production, experience, and location, but they typically earn between $200 and $1,000 per day for film and television roles. Experienced or well-known character actors can earn higher rates, especially for recurring or leading roles, and may also receive residuals or royalties. Payment often includes a combination of daily rates, session fees, or contract salaries, and may require skills in makeup, costume, and improvisation.

What does a character actor do?

A character actor portrays distinctive, often supporting roles that require transforming into unique or unusual characters. They focus on developing specific traits, accents, and appearances to bring diverse characters to life in film, television, or theater productions.

What are popular job titles related to Character Actor jobs in California?

For Character Actor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Character Actor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Character Actor jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Character Actor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,160 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

$16.90/hr

Temporary

Posted 4 days ago


Six Flags rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 531 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 58 rated theme parks


Job description

This is a seasonal position for the duration of the Fall/Winter 2026 season. 


  • Uphold and maintain character integrity of Warner Bros IP’s (Looney Tunes and DC Comics).
  • Meeting and greeting Guests with enthusiasm.
  • Ensuring smooth operation of character appearances.
  • Acting as verbal liaison between characters and Guests.
  • Accompanying characters and other performers from the Green Room to various in-park
    locations.
  • Maintaining “show illusion” and belief of character at all times for our Guests.
  • Assisting performers in and out of costumes, ensuring that all pieces are neat and secure.
  • Caring for and maintaining the upkeep of costumes, props, and accessories.
  • Maintaining a clean and safe work environment.

  • The ability to confidently perform and speak in front of a large crowd.
  • The skills to improvise interactions with Guests and other characters preferred.
  • The ability to demonstrate strong acting technique specifically improvisation.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Constantly standing, talking, climbing, walking, reaching, using finger movement, grasping,
    feeling, speaking clearly, hearing conversation, using hearing acuity, seeing near far, stooping,
    bending, kneeling.
  • Working in extreme heat, sun, cold, wetness, humidity and temperature change.
  • Must be able to carry 5 to 10 lbs.
  • All lifts over 51 lbs. require help from a coworker or mechanical device.
  • Overtime of adults may be required from time to time to accommodate the business need.
  • Escorting and have knowledge about licensed characters when on the show floor.
  • Assist talent in getting into costume, and following strict show schedules each operating day.
  • Use heavy improvisation to create the “show illusion” during character appearances.
  • Managing lines during character appearances, as well as acting as a photographer.
  • Assist in the laundry process of costumes, as well as cleaning and maintaining props as
    needed.
  • Acting as a Stage Hand during character shows and reporting to the Stage Manager directly.

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