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Scare Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for fresh blood, so if you want to be part of the haunt, now is the time! Howl-O-Scream Season is open ...

Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for fresh blood, so if you want to be part of the haunt, now is the time! Howl-O-Scream Season is open ...

Be a part of award-winning Scare-event performances while maintaining creative integrity. * Opportunities for leadership roles (i.e. Performance Captain). * Limited opportunities to participate in ...

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Scare information

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How much do scare jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for scare in the United States is $20.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Scare Actor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Scare Actor, you need strong improvisational skills, physical stamina, and an ability to stay in character, often supported by acting training or experience in performing arts. Familiarity with safety protocols, costume/makeup application, and sometimes audio or animatronic cue systems is also valuable. Outstanding communication, teamwork, and adaptability help performers interact safely with guests and colleagues while adjusting to unpredictable situations. These skills ensure an immersive, safe, and effective entertainment experience for guests in haunted attractions or themed events.

What are scare actors?

Scare actors are performers hired to create frightening or startling experiences for guests, typically at haunted houses, amusement parks during Halloween events, or horror-themed attractions. Their job involves using costumes, makeup, props, and acting skills to evoke fear, suspense, or surprise. Scare actors often work in dimly lit or specially designed environments and must be able to stay in character, interact with guests safely, and handle stressful or high-energy situations. The role requires creativity, stamina, and the ability to react quickly to different audiences. Training is usually provided to ensure both guest safety and a convincing performance.

What is the difference between Scare vs Caregiver?

AspectScareCaregiver
Required CredentialsNone specificCPR certification, background check
Work EnvironmentEvent security, entertainment settingsHome, healthcare facilities, senior living
Employer & IndustryEvent organizers, security firmsHealthcare providers, home care agencies
Common Search IntentEvent safety, security rolesPersonal care, elderly support

While 'Scare' roles focus on entertainment or security at events, 'Caregiver' positions involve providing personal and health support, often requiring certifications. Both roles operate in different environments but may overlap in community or event settings. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit based on credentials, work environment, and industry focus.

What are some common challenges faced by professional scare actors in haunted attractions?

Professional scare actors often encounter challenges such as maintaining energy and enthusiasm throughout long shifts, especially during peak seasons like Halloween. They must adapt quickly to different guests’ reactions, ensuring safety while delivering effective scares. Additionally, working in dark, confined, or noisy environments can be physically and mentally demanding, requiring strong teamwork and communication skills to create a safe and immersive experience for guests.

What is a Scare job?

A Scare job typically refers to a role in haunted attractions, theme parks, or other entertainment venues where performers scare guests. These actors use costumes, props, and special effects to create a frightening experience. The job often requires improvisation, physical stamina, and the ability to stay in character. Scare actors may work in haunted houses, mazes, or interactive horror experiences.

More about Scare jobs
What cities are hiring for Scare jobs? Cities with the most Scare job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scare jobs? The most popular types of Scare jobs are:
What states have the most Scare jobs? States with the most job openings for Scare jobs include:
Infographic showing various Scare job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,947 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for fresh blood, so if you want to be part of the haunt, now is the time! Howl-O-Scream Season is open September through November 2026, get in NOW!
Schedule your audition time! Auditions will take place most Friday and Saturdays through August. More details provided upon scheduling.

What you get to do:

  • Performing as characters to startle and scare guests at Busch Gardens Tampa Howl-O-Scream
  • Consistently performing multiple scares repetitively throughout the night of the event (some scare positions may involve strenuous physical activity).
  • Being responsible for clocking in and out at the beginning and end of assigned shifts.
  • Taking and implementing direction from persons of authority.
  • Maintaining a tidy and safe work area.
  • Working well with a diverse group of co-workers.
  • Performers are expected to supply their own black pants, black socks, black shoes, and black shirt.

What it takes to succeed:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Must be available to work potentially between 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM on rehearsal and event nights
  • Must be available majority of event nights. Availability will be one factor used in determining employment offer and/or role placement.
  • Many, but not all positions, require wearing makeup (provided by BGT). Some positions require wearing a costume mask, helmet, wig, or hat (provided by BGT).
  • Costumes for characters will be provided by BGT and will remain the property of BGT.
  • Must be able to perform assigned character for up to 2 hours at a time. Performance may include standing, walking, or other strenuous physical activity.
  • Perform the following physical activities on a frequent basis: stand, walk, climb, bend floor-to-waist/waist-to-overhead and reach overhead, simple grasp, and fine manipulation task.
  • Work both indoors and outdoors, exposed to a variety of weather conditions.
  • Position may be exposed to heat/cold temperature extremes, chemical, fumes/dust/odor, atmospheric lighting/strobe lighting/dim lighting
  • Based on needs and availability, some positions may not work every night of the event.

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.