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Parade Floats Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Macy's

Float Fabricator I - Carpenter

Moonachie, NJ · On-site

$58K - $97K/yr

Job Overview The Float Fabricator constructs floats, props, and other scenic elements for Macy's iconic events, including the Thanksgiving Day Parade, Spring Flower Shows, 4th of July Fireworks ...

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How much do parade floats jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for parade floats in the United States is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Parade Float Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Parade Float Designer, you need strong skills in artistic design, structural engineering, and project management, often supported by a background in fine arts, design, or related fields. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, woodworking tools, and safety regulations is typically required. Creativity, teamwork, and attention to detail are soft skills that set exceptional float designers apart. These abilities ensure floats are visually impressive, structurally sound, and safely executed for successful parade presentations.

What is the difference between Parade Floats vs Float Builders?

AspectParade FloatsFloat Builders
CredentialsDesign experience, artistic skillsConstruction skills, carpentry certifications
Work EnvironmentParade routes, outdoor eventsWorkshop, construction sites
Industry UsageEvent planning, entertainmentConstruction, fabrication

Parade floats are decorative vehicles designed for parades, focusing on artistic design and parade-specific features. Float builders are professionals who construct and assemble these floats, often with carpentry and fabrication skills. While parade float designers focus on aesthetics, float builders handle the physical construction. Both roles are essential in creating parade floats, but they differ in their primary responsibilities and work environments.

What are parade floats?

Parade floats are specially decorated platforms, usually built on the chassis of a vehicle or trailer, that are designed to be driven or pulled through the streets during parades. They are often elaborately adorned with flowers, sculptures, and themed decorations to represent organizations, holidays, or cultural events. Parade floats are used to entertain audiences, promote businesses and causes, and add visual excitement and creativity to parades. Their design and construction often involve artists, engineers, and volunteers working together.

What are some common challenges faced when working on a parade float team?

Working on a parade float team often involves tight deadlines, especially leading up to major events or holidays. Coordinating with designers, builders, and volunteers requires strong communication and flexibility, as last-minute changes to artistic elements or logistics are common. Additionally, working conditions can vary, including outdoor environments and extended hours during the final assembly and parade days. However, the collaborative spirit and the satisfaction of seeing your work showcased to the public make the challenges rewarding.
Infographic showing various Parade Floats job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,986 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Float Fabricator I - Carpenter

Float Fabricator I - Carpenter

Macy's

Moonachie, NJ • On-site

$58K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Macy's rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 837 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 21 rated department stores

Job description

Job Description
Be part of an amazing story
Macy's is more than just a store. We're a story. One that's captured the hearts and minds of America for more than 160 years. A story about innovations and traditions...about inspiring stores and irresistible products...about the excitement of the Macy's 4th of July Fireworks, and the wonder of the Thanksgiving Day Parade. We've been part of memorable moments and milestones for countless customers and colleagues. Those stories are part of what makes this such a special place to work.
Job Overview
The Float Fabricator constructs floats, props, and other scenic elements for Macy's iconic events, including the Thanksgiving Day Parade, Spring Flower Shows, 4th of July Fireworks, Santa Land, and other seasonal elements.
What You Will Do
  • Work as a carpenter, welder, sculptor, or painter to fabricate floats and other studio projects.
  • Serve as a crewmember for installations, setups, and takedowns.
  • Participate in parade setups and other events as needed.
  • Assist with the installation and implementation of special projects, including holiday displays, marquee elements, and the Flower Show.
  • Collaborate with the Production Manager and Shop Floor Supervisor on project engineering, planning, and production methods.
  • Perform other tasks and duties as assigned by the Director of Production and/or Production Manager.
  • Foster an environment of acceptance and respect that strengthens relationships, and ensures authentic connections with colleagues, customers, and communities.

Skills You Will Need
Fabrication Skills: Proficiency in carpentry, welding, sculpting, or painting for various projects.
Communication Skills: Excellent communication for working with multiple artists and builders.
Technical Drawing Interpretation: Ability to read scale drawings, basic schematics, and use basic math for material orders.
Multitasking: Ability to handle multiple tasks and collaborate with various team members.
Professional Finish Work: Competence in performing high-quality finish work on projects.
Welding and Rigging Knowledge: General knowledge of welding, metal fabrication, and rigging is a plus.
Self-Directed Work: Capability to work with minimal supervision and be self-directed.
Additional Skills: Knowledge or experience in electrics, plumbing, and hydraulics is a plus; basic computer skills.
Who You Are
  • Candidates with a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in a related field are encouraged to apply. Experience in construction and/or scenic production preferred.
  • This position requires heavy lifting, constant moving, standing, and reaching with arms and hands. Involves standing for at least two consecutive hours, lifting at least 50 lbs. stooping, kneeling, crouching, and climbing ladders. May involve reaching above eye level. Requires close vision, color vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment.
  • Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and company needs.

What We Can Offer You
Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage and a 401(k) match to invest in your future. Prioritize your well-being with paid time off and eight paid holidays. Grow your career with continuous learning and leadership development. Plus, build community by joining one of our Colleague Resource Groups and make a difference through our volunteer opportunities.
Some additional benefits we offer include:
  • Merchandise discounts
  • Performance-based incentives
  • Annual merit review
  • Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice
  • Tuition reimbursement

Access the full menu of benefits offerings here.
About Us
This is a great time to join Macy's! Whether you're helping a customer find the perfect gift, streamlining operations in one of our distribution centers, enhancing our online shopping experience, buying in-style and on-trend merchandise to outfit our customers, or designing a balloon for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, we offer unique opportunities to be part of some of the most memorable moments in people's lives.
Join us and help write the next chapter in our story - Apply Today!
This job description is not all-inclusive. Macy's, Inc. reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. Macy's, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.
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About Macy's

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Macy's is proudly America's Department Store. There's a reason we've been around for 160 years. Customers come to us for fashion, value and celebration. Macy's is also known for giving back to our communities. The magic of Macy's ultimately comes alive in our stores, and our store colleagues are the ones making it happen. They provide outstanding customer service, create a memorable shopping experience, and drive sales results.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

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