Entry Level Character Design Artist Jobs in California

Makeup Artist – Seasonal San Jose CA  | Seasonal | Sept - Nov

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment—and proudly the world's largest operator of Halloween attractions. With eighteen markets spanning Florida to California and millions of guests thrilled each year, we don't just produce events. We redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Denver and powered by a team of fearless creators, we've built a culture where curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to go beyond expectations are the standard—not the exception. When you join Thirteenth Floor, you're not just taking a job. You're stepping into the magic behind the screams.

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Returning applicants: If you have worked for Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group in a prior season, please contact your location manager directly regarding rehire status. Do not submit a new application through the online system.

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What You'll Do

As our Seasonal Makeup Artist, you're the creative force behind the nightmares. Every character that haunts our guests starts in your chair—your artistry, speed, and precision transform performers into unforgettable creatures that make our attraction legendary.

Transformative Makeup Artistry

• Craft professional-grade special effects looks for actors based on established look books and original character designs

• Execute a full range of techniques including airbrushing, hand-painting, and prosthetic application to bring characters to life

• Ensure every application is durable enough to withstand hours of intense performance, movement, and environmental conditions

• Faithfully execute established designs while contributing your own creative flair where appropriate

Time Management & Show Pacing

• Work swiftly and efficiently to complete complex looks within tight pre-show windows

• Manage multiple actors simultaneously, prioritizing touch-ups and reapplications throughout the night to keep every character show-ready

Station Management

• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully sanitized workspace at all times

• Monitor inventory, care for all tools and supplies, and report restocking needs proactively

• Adapt your station setup to varying locations, space limitations, and nightly demands

Collaboration & Communication

• Partner with the costume department to ensure cohesive, compelling character presentations

• Communicate clearly with actors about application processes, product use, and aftercare

• Collaborate with fellow artists to maintain visual consistency and share techniques that elevate the overall aesthetic

Adaptability & Professionalism

• Respond quickly to last-minute character changes, actor substitutions, or design adjustments mid-show

• Troubleshoot makeup challenges in demanding conditions—low light, outdoor settings, high humidity

• Participate in pre-season training to master character designs and expand your technical toolkit

• Maintain a calm, positive, and professional demeanor that respects every performer's comfort and personal space

What You Bring

• Demonstrated experience in special effects, theatrical, or character makeup—haunted attraction or live entertainment experience strongly preferred

• Proficiency in prosthetics, airbrushing, hand-painting, and SFX techniques

• Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure without sacrificing quality

• Strong collaborative instincts and clear communication skills with performers and fellow artists

• Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive about station and inventory management

• Comfortable standing and moving throughout the event area for the duration of each shift

• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and all scheduled event dates—reliable attendance is essential

• Must be 18 years of age or older

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Compensation & Employment Details

Hourly Rate: $21.00 hr 
Employment Type: Seasonal/Temporary
Expected Season Duration: Late September – Early November 2026
Work Schedule: Evenings, weekends, and holidays required during operational season

This is a seasonal/temporary position with an anticipated end date. Employment beyond the stated season is not guaranteed.

Pursuant to California SB 1162, the hourly pay rate for this position is listed above. Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group will not request or consider salary history in making compensation decisions.

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group participates in E-Verify. As required by federal law, we will verify the identity and employment eligibility of all hired individuals.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act (AB 1008). You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made.

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations at any point in the hiring process by contacting hr@thirteenthfloor.com

Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), applicants are entitled to know what personal information is collected during the hiring process and how it is used. To review our Applicant Privacy Notice, visit [link] or contact HR at the email above.

Applicant Privacy Notice – California Residents

In connection with your application for employment, Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group ("TFEG") collects personal information about applicants as permitted and required by law. The categories of personal information we may collect include: identifiers (such as name, address, email, and phone number); professional and employment-related information (such as work history, references, and qualifications); education information; and background check information where applicable and permitted. This information is collected for the purpose of evaluating your candidacy, processing your application, and fulfilling our legal obligations as an employer. We do not sell applicants' personal information. Personal information collected during the hiring process is retained in accordance with applicable law and our internal data retention policies. If you have questions about how your personal information is collected or used, please contact Human Resources at hr@thirteenthfloor.com.