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Scare Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

A scare actor will help to provide the guests a unique experience by working in a haunted maze, a scare zone, or as a roaming actor. This position plays an integral part of making the attractions ...

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Altoona, IA · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

A scare actor will help to provide the guests a unique experience by working in a haunted maze, a scare zone, or as a roaming actor. This position plays an integral part of making the attractions ...

Scare information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do scare jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for scare in Iowa is $18.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.68 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 some spooky jobs?

Spooky jobs include roles such as haunted house actors, ghost tour guides, and horror-themed event staff. These positions often require a flair for performance, creativity, and comfort with costumes and makeup, especially during seasonal events like Halloween.

How do I become a scare actor?

To become a scare actor, you should develop acting skills, learn how to use costumes and makeup effectively, and gain experience in performance or theater. Many scare actors also undergo training on safety protocols and work during seasonal events like Halloween haunted houses or theme park attractions.

How much do scare actors pay?

Scare actors typically earn between $8 and $15 per hour, with pay rates varying based on location, experience, and the complexity of the role. Many positions are seasonal and may include additional incentives or tips, especially during peak Halloween 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 jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can earn $3,000 a day include specialized roles such as surgeons, anesthesiologists, corporate lawyers, and certain executive positions. These jobs typically require advanced education, significant experience, and often involve high-stakes decision-making or specialized skills. Freelance consultants, successful entrepreneurs, and top-tier sales professionals in lucrative industries may also reach this level of daily income.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Scare jobs in Iowa? For Scare jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Scare jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Scare jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Scare job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,399 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Hfecorp

Altoona, IA

$16 - $21/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave-and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with over 40 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.

While each brand offers something unique,all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating. Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service-what we call Heartspitality-the intersection of heart and hospitality.

As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect.

Do you like to scare people? Do you like to do scary make-up? Do you love Halloween? If you answered "YES" to these questions, then we have a position for you!
A scare actor will help to provide the guests a unique experience by working in a haunted maze, a scare zone, or as a roaming actor. This position plays an integral part of making the attractions come to life! Ideal candidates have an enthusiasm for acting and creativity and are willing to transform into a frightening creature through full makeovers and costuming including the use of masks!

We are currently looking for a:

Adventureland Park - Scare Actor

Roles & Responsibilities:

    Roles & Responsibilities:

    • Entertain guests with frighteningly fun performancesby delivering realistic and scary performances!

    • Consistently remain in character throughout the entirety of scheduled shifts, whichinvolve walking, running,makingnoises,changing posture, or using props

    • Effectively scare guests as they move through the scare zones throughout the park

    • Greetand interact withall guests in the scariestmannerpossible

    • Demonstrate control, restraint, and awarenesstominimize the escalation of situations in which a guest may get overly scared

    • Maintain a safe environment by keeping at least an arm's distance between self andeach guest, keeping escape routes clean, and followingallsafety standards

    • Usea variety of props, lights,or noise makers to enhance the scare experience

    • Maintain a clean and safe work environment

    • Comply withall park policies, procedures, and labor laws

    • Proactivelymonitorassigned areas and quicklyidentifyand escalate any safety hazards or other risks to the proper authorities

    • All other duties as assigned by leadership

    Language:Ability to read, write, and speak fluent English; Spanish or other bilingual language skills are a plus.

    Education and Experience:

    • No education requirements for this position; just a passion for scaring!

    • Previoushaunt experience preferred, but notrequired

    Requirements:

    • Must successfully pass an audition and/or character training for this role

    • Must be at least 16 years of age tocomply withIowaChild Labor Laws

    • Ability to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays (including Halloween, if open)

    • Ability to work 20+ hours per week, when needed

    • Must have reliable transportation to and from work for your scheduled shift

    • Mustcomply withall grooming standards,uniformand/or costume requirements

    • Ability to immerse in role and remain in character throughout the performance

    • Mustpossessstrong cardio endurance, physical story-telling abilities, and performance energy

    • Must be playful, outgoing, friendly, and convey a positive, guest-centric attitude

    • Mustpossesseffective verbal and non-verbal acting and communication skills

    • Ability to follow direction, multi-task, and work as part of a fast-paced team

    Physical Requirements:

    • Ability to stand, walk, and remain on feet for majority of the workday

    • Ability to wear assigned costume for extended periods of time

    • Ability tofrequentlystoop, twist, kneel, bend, squat, or reach above shoulders

    • Ability to perform in costumes that may have limited sight lines

    • Ability to carry, push, pull, lift, and hold objects weighing 30 pounds or more

    Working Conditions:

    • Frequent exposure to outdoor and indoor areas of the park

    • Subject to extreme warm or cold temperatures during the autumn months

    • Frequent exposure to the variable outside temperatures (both in and out of costume), including high heat, cold, direct sun, humidity, dust, rain, snow, ice, andother weather conditions

    • Subject to frequent interruptions, constant repetitive motion, high noise levels, flashing lights, strobe lights, dark and shadowy environments, andheavily populatedareas

    Working atAdventureland Parkis about making people happy!It'sabout being independent and having fun, making newfriendsand earning extra money while doing so. AsaAdventureland Parkemployee, you can be the smiling face that makes a great first impression for incoming guests, a cook that serves up tasty treats and culinary delights, a lifeguard who soaks up the sun while keeping guests safe, or a ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights!

    Team member benefits:

      ParkPerks & Benefits:

      • Flexible schedule

      • Ability to cross-train and learn unique skills across various departments

      • Free admission to Adventureland Theme Park/Waterpark andselectEntertainment parks on your days off

      • Invitations to exclusive company-sponsored employee events throughout the season

      We'vegot great jobs for people just starting out in the workforce, looking for a secondjobor staying active after retirement. If you want a fun, flexible job with an innovative company, look no further thanAdventureland Park. Apply today!

      Do not miss the chance to spark your career now!

      Do not miss the chance to spark your career now!