Character Development Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what it's like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!

Must attend an in-person audition on:

• Saturday June 28 – check in at 11, Audition at 11:30
• Tuesday July 7- check in 4:30 pm, Audition at 5pm

Please check in at the Busch Gardens HR Building: 3605 E Bougainvillea Ave, Tampa, FL 33612

Please wear form fitting dance attire and be prepared to learn a movement combination.

Please have headshot and resume ready

What you get to do:

• Embody the childlike innocence, enthusiasm, and mannerisms of the characters
• Enthusiastically represent the park by displaying a positive attitude, high level of energy, and commitment to quality throughout all aspects of the job.
• Perform as Costume Character, Character Escort, and/or Puppeteer both in park and out-of-park as assigned
• Perform in stage offerings, storytimes, meet-and-greets, and special events as assigned
• Serve as an expert performer for multiple assigned characters, with the ability to perform all characters in your height range
• Perform duties of an expert character escort, which include facilitating interaction and communication between character and guests, providing directions and park information, and entertaining guests.
• May assist with character training and rehearsals.
• Openly accepts performance feedback and critique and adapts accordingly.
• Execute pre and post show backstage duties as outlined in the daily schedule
• Ensure adherence to safety and procedural directions that accompany this position
• Consistently and expertly executes stage direction and show content as directed by leadership.
• Maintains a positive and flexible attitude.
• Positively interacts with guests, employees, and others.
• Perform other duties as assigned

What it takes to succeed:

• Height range of 4'11" to 6'2" with slender, athletic build
• Personable and animated with a fun, outgoing personality
• Strong ability to communicate with guests on mic
• Ability to perform outside in a full body costume
• Ability to openly accept performance feedback/critiques and adapt accordingly
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions and temperature extremes while performing in a character costume
• Demonstrated strong costume and escorting skills
• At least 18 years old
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Ability to lift, push and pull up to 50 pounds
• Availability to work varying shifts or hours based on park hours; i.e. be able to work opening and closing shifts, as well as after hour rehearsals
• Ability to move and dance in full costume at a standard consistent with creative intent
• Ability to maintain character integrity
• Willingness to participate in regular internal performance assessments
• Previous costume character and/or dance experience preferred
• Previous guest experience in a high-volume capacity preferred
• Previous experience in the fields of dance, theater, athletics, or other performance arts preferred.
• Be able to positively interact with guests and co-workers of all ages, different ethnic/cultural backgrounds and/or language, and individuals with special needs.
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Stand, walk and/or sit for prolonged periods of time.
• Audition requirements may include dance, movement, script memorization, role playing, comedic improvisation, and miming as necessary.

What else is important:

• Be able to lift, push, pull and/or carry up to 50 lbs.
• Position engages in extensive walking and standing throughout entire work shift and climb/ascend heights, if needed
• Perform the following physical activities: kneeling, squatting, bend floor-to waist/waist-to-overhead, reach overhead, simple grasp and fine hand manipulation tasks (use of tools/keyboard/writing)
• Be able to work indoors and outdoors, in varying weather, to include extreme heat. Position may be exposed to fumes, dust, odors, and cold/heat temperature extremes
• Perform cleaning duties, including use of cleaning chemicals
• Work a flexible schedule/hour based on business need, to include opening, mid-, and closing shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Be flexible in work locations as placement will depend on business needs and career development opportunities
• Must be able to participate in an in-person audition at a pre-determined time

Compensation:

• Pay rate is $15.50 per hour.

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

• FREE park admission
• Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
• Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
• Scholarship opportunities
• Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.