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Professional Entertainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Howl at the Moon

Musician/Entertainer

Kansas City, MO · On-site

As an Entertainer, you will be the heart of the Howl live music experience. You will team up with ... Ability to work professionally in a fast-paced bar environment * Friendly, customer-focused ...

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Parq Nightclub

VIP Server/Entertainer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.25/hr

VIP Server/Entertainer Job Location: WSA Entertainment, LLC dba Parq Nightclub and Restaurant FLSA ... Engage with guests in a friendly, professional manner, creating a welcoming atmosphere. * Provide ...

WSA Entertainment LLC

VIP Server/Entertainer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$17.25/hr

VIP Server/Entertainer Job Location: WSA Entertainment, LLC dba Parq Nightclub and Restaurant FLSA ... Engage with guests in a friendly, professional manner, creating a welcoming atmosphere. * Provide ...

Princess Party Productions

Be Seen First

Princess Performer

Point Pleasant, NJ · On-site

$17 - $75/hr

Performers will portray beloved princess characters, entertain young guests, lead themed activities ... Portray princess characters in a warm, engaging, and professional manner * Lead party activities ...

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How much do professional entertainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional entertainer in the United States is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional entertainer?

Professional entertainers are individuals who perform for audiences to provide amusement, enjoyment, or artistic expression. This category includes a wide range of performers such as musicians, dancers, actors, comedians, magicians, and circus artists, among others. They may work in venues like theaters, clubs, cruise ships, amusement parks, or for private events. Their primary goal is to engage and captivate audiences through their particular talents and skills. Professional entertainers often undergo extensive training and rehearsals to perfect their craft and deliver high-quality performances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional entertainer?

To thrive as a Professional Entertainer, you need strong performance abilities, creativity, and a solid understanding of your chosen entertainment field, often supported by training or experience in acting, music, dance, or comedy. Familiarity with audio/visual equipment, stage management systems, and sometimes union or guild memberships are typical technical aspects of the role. Charisma, adaptability, and resilience are essential soft skills that help entertainers connect with diverse audiences and handle the demands of live performance. These skills ensure engaging performances, career longevity, and the ability to stand out in a highly competitive industry.

What are some common challenges professional entertainers face when balancing creativity with client or audience expectations?

Professional entertainers often navigate the challenge of expressing their unique creativity while adapting performances to meet diverse client or audience expectations. This may involve customizing material, adjusting routines for different venues, or responding to real-time feedback. Flexibility and strong communication skills are essential to strike a balance between personal artistic vision and delivering a satisfying experience. Successful entertainers continuously refine their acts to remain relevant and engaging in a competitive industry.

What is the difference between Professional Entertainer vs Magician?

AspectProfessional EntertainerMagician
CredentialsPerformance skills, sometimes certifications in entertainment or stage performanceOften requires specific magic certifications or memberships (e.g., IBM, SAM)
Work EnvironmentEvents, parties, festivals, corporate functionsStage shows, private events, magic clubs
Employer & Industry UsageEvent planners, entertainment agencies, self-employedEntertainment industry, magic clubs, private clients
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for versatile performers for eventsSeeking specialized magic performances

The main difference is that a Professional Entertainer offers a broad range of entertainment services, including singing, comedy, or hosting, while a Magician specializes specifically in magic acts. Both roles require performance skills and work in similar environments, but magicians often have specific magic certifications and focus on magic performances, whereas professional entertainers may have diverse talents suitable for various events.

How do you become a professional entertainer?

To become a professional entertainer, you typically develop your skills through training or practice, build a portfolio or demo reel, and gain experience by performing at local events, clubs, or online platforms. Networking, marketing yourself, and obtaining relevant permits or licenses can also help establish a career in entertainment.

What type of jobs should a professional entertainer do?

A professional entertainer can work in various settings such as live events, theaters, corporate functions, parties, and festivals. They may perform as musicians, comedians, magicians, dancers, or actors, often requiring skills in performance, audience engagement, and sometimes specific certifications or equipment. The job typically involves flexible hours and the ability to adapt to different audiences and environments.

What cities are hiring for Professional Entertainer jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Entertainer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Entertainer jobs?

The most popular types of Entertainer jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Entertainer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Entertainer jobs include:

Professional Entertainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Entertainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,173 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Animal Entertainer

Sarasota, FL • On-site

Sarasota Jungle Gardens
Elementary and Secondary Schools • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Sarasota Jungle Gardensexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Summary of Duties:
      An Entertainer is responsible for performing day-to-day operations in qualified areas and animals. The Entertainer position will learn and perform all shows, presentations and public relations (both live and recorded) as necessary or directed. The Entertainer is regularly required to speak publicly to both large and small groups (onsite and off) One year of professional experience in the Entertainment Industry (animal focus preferred)

  • Strong public speaking ability including professionally based entertainment and humor is required
  • Must be comfortable with small mammals, primates, birds and reptiles (including snakes)
  • Day-to-day tasks require good problem-solving skills, critical thinking and time management
  • Must display or be willing to grow and understand animal behaviors and their application in behavioral conditioning
  • Must be punctual, reliable and be able to work weekends and holidays (and very occasional evenings)  
  • Effective crowd control skills
  • Must also be able to pass a drug screen (including marijuana and CBD) and a background check.

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