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Character Costume Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Skydance Media

Costume Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$131.95 - $182/hr

As a key member of the art leadership team, the role will collaborate closely with the Director, Production Designer, Lead Character Designer, and report directly to the studio's Head of Costume ...

New

Skydance Media

Costume Designer

California, MO · On-site

$131.95 - $182/hr

As a key member of the art leadership team, the role will collaborate closely with the Director, Production Designer, Lead Character Designer, and report directly to the studio's Head of Costume ...

New

stewleonards

Costume Character

Danbury, CT · On-site

$17.25 - $20/hr

Costume Character Part Time Hourly - Estimated pay range $17.25/hr to $20.00/hr depending on qualifications and experience Stew Leonard's, a family-owned and operated fresh food store founded in 1969 ...

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Character Costume information

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$10

$19

$37

How much do character costume jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for character costume 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.

What is a character costume?

Character costume jobs involve wearing and performing in costumes that represent specific characters, such as mascots, cartoon figures, or themed entertainers. These roles are common in theme parks, special events, parades, and promotional activities. Individuals in these jobs are responsible for bringing characters to life through movement, gestures, and sometimes interacting with the public, all while maintaining the character's persona. The work can be physically demanding due to the weight and heat of the costumes, but it is also rewarding for those who enjoy entertaining and engaging with audiences.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a character costume performer?

To thrive as a Character Costume Performer, you need strong physical stamina, body coordination, and the ability to communicate nonverbally, typically supported by experience in performing arts or entertainment. Familiarity with costume maintenance, basic crowd management, and sometimes first aid certification are commonly required. Enthusiasm, reliability, and excellent interpersonal skills help create memorable guest interactions and maintain a positive atmosphere. These skills ensure high-quality performances, guest satisfaction, and safety in often demanding environments.

What are common challenges faced by character costume performers, and how can they be managed?

Character Costume performers often encounter challenges such as limited visibility, heat, and restricted mobility while in costume. To manage these, performers are typically trained in safe movement techniques and communication methods, like using hand signals with handlers. Frequent breaks, proper hydration, and teamwork with support staff are essential to ensure safety and maintain performance quality. Adaptability and stamina are important for handling high-energy environments, especially in theme parks or during events.

What is the difference between Character Costume vs Costume Designer?

AspectCharacter CostumeCostume Designer
Required CredentialsMay require sewing skills, costume construction, or design experienceFormal education in fashion, costume design, or related fields often preferred
Work EnvironmentEvents, theme parks, theaters, cosplay conventionsFilm, television, theater, fashion industry
Employer & Industry UsageCostume rental shops, entertainment venues, cosplay eventsProduction companies, costume houses, fashion houses
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on wearing or creating costumes for charactersDesigning costumes for productions or clients

While both roles involve costumes, a Character Costume typically refers to wearing or assembling costumes for specific characters in events or entertainment. A Costume Designer, however, designs and creates costumes for productions, requiring formal training and a broader design skill set.

How to get a job in a character costume department?

To work in a character costume department, candidates typically need experience in costume design, sewing, or costume construction, along with knowledge of character design and materials. Building a portfolio, gaining relevant skills through workshops or courses, and applying to entertainment, theme park, or theater companies are common steps. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to work with various fabrics and tools are essential.

What are common character costume job titles?

Common character costume job titles include Character Performer, Mascot Performer, Costume Character Actor, and Cosplay Performer. These roles typically involve wearing costumes to entertain or promote at events, theme parks, or marketing campaigns, often requiring physical activity and acting skills.
More about Character Costume jobs

What cities are hiring for Character Costume jobs?

Cities with the most Character Costume job openings:

What states have the most Character Costume jobs?

States with the most job openings for Character Costume jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Character Costume jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Character Costume jobs are:

Character Costume jobs near you
Infographic showing various Character Costume job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,680 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Santa Claus - Professional Costume Character

shutterfly

Wayne, NJ • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Shutterfly rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 739 rated retailers

Job description

Description
The Santa Claus Costume Character creates memorable experiences for children and families through engaging character performances during photography events, promotions, and seasonal programs. This role brings assigned characters to life by maintaining character integrity, delivering exceptional customer experiences, supporting photography sessions, and creating fun, photographable moments while ensuring all interactions remain safe, professional, and appropriate.
Hourly Payrate: $65.00/Hour
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Portray an assigned character in a believable, engaging, and professional manner.
  • Create positive, memorable experiences for children and families through friendly and
    appropriate interactions.
  • Support photography sessions by assisting with poses, props, and customer
    engagement.
  • Create photographable moments that enhance the customer experience and encourage
    participation.
  • Interact with children and parents in a manner consistent with company safety and
    customer interaction guidelines.
  • Maintain character integrity and remain in character while visible to customers.
  • Observe and respond appropriately to customer cues and comfort levels.
  • Maintain costume appearance, cleanliness, and overall presentation standards.
  • Assist with studio events, seasonal programs, promotions, and marketing activities.
  • Distribute promotional materials as directed and approved by the host location.
  • Follow all company policies, safety requirements, and costume character guidelines.
  • Protect company assets by properly caring for and storing all costume components and
    accessories.
  • Assist with event setup and teardown activities as assigned.
  • Support holiday, seasonal, and special event promotions.
  • Communicate customer concerns or safety issues to studio leadership.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum General Requirements:
  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Must own a professional-quality Santa Claus costume that meets company appearance standards.
  • Must have a natural, real beard to maintain an authentic Santa Claus appearance.
  • Ability to maintain a well-groomed beard and professional Santa image throughout the season.

Experience:
  • Previous experience in customer service, retail, childcare, hospitality, entertainment, or
    event environments preferred.
  • Experience working with children and families preferred.
  • Previous character, mascot, theatrical, or performance experience is beneficial but not
    required.

Skills and Competencies:
  • Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Ability to engage positively and appropriately with children and families.
  • Professional demeanor and sound judgment when interacting with customers.
  • Ability to follow established performance, safety, and customer interaction guidelines.
  • Strong verbal communication skills.
  • Dependable attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to maintain a positive, friendly, and enthusiastic attitude throughout scheduled
    shifts.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Ability to maintain character integrity while performing in costume.

Travel: Minimal travel within the district.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
  • Ability to wear a character costume for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and interact with customers throughout scheduled
    shifts.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced retail studio environment.
  • May be required to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.

Hourly Payrate: $65.00/Hour
This is a seasonal position with ongoing hiring until roles are filled.
Supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce is important to Shutterfly not only because it directly reflects our value of Embracing our Differences, but also because it's the right thing to do for our business and for our people. We welcome all applicants and evaluate them based on their qualifications. Learn more about our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on our Career Site.

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