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Seasonal Scare Actor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SEASONAL POSITION Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that ... Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for ...

SEASONAL POSITION Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that ... Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for ...

SEASONAL POSITION Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that ... Come join the screams and be a part of our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team! We are looking for ...

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 ...

Scare Actor Location: Tropical Park Type ... Seasonal / Temporary (Nights, Weekends, Halloween Season) About the Role Do you have what it takes ...

Scare Actor Location: Tropical Park Type ... Seasonal / Temporary (Nights, Weekends, Halloween Season) About the Role Do you have what it takes ...

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Seasonal Scare Actor information

See salary details

$10

$15

$20

How much do seasonal scare actor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal scare actor in the United States is $15.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $17.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Seasonal Scare Actor, you need strong performance skills, physical stamina, and the ability to follow safety protocols, with prior acting experience or theater training often beneficial. Familiarity with makeup application, costume use, and working with props or animatronic effects is typically required. Exceptional improvisation, adaptability, and communication skills help create convincing characters and interact effectively with guests and teammates. These skills ensure both an immersive guest experience and a safe, efficient operation during high-traffic seasonal events.

What is the difference between Seasonal Scare Actor vs Haunted House Performer?

AspectSeasonal Scare ActorHaunted House Performer
CredentialsNo formal credentials requiredNo formal credentials required
Work EnvironmentHaunted attractions, seasonal eventsHaunted houses, theme parks, seasonal events
Industry UsageCommonly used in Halloween attractionsUsed across various haunted attractions and events
Search IntentCompare roles in Halloween entertainmentSimilar roles in haunted attractions

Both roles involve performing in haunted attractions during seasonal events, often requiring acting skills and the ability to scare visitors. The term 'Haunted House Performer' is a broader category that includes various roles, while 'Seasonal Scare Actor' specifically refers to actors working in seasonal Halloween attractions. The main difference lies in the specific context and terminology used by employers and performers.

What are some common challenges faced by seasonal scare actors during peak event times?

Seasonal scare actors often face challenges such as long hours on their feet, maintaining high energy throughout shifts, and frequently performing in hot or cold weather conditions. Staying in character despite distractions and reacting to unpredictable guest behavior also require resilience and adaptability. Additionally, working closely with a team to coordinate scares and ensure guest safety is crucial, making strong communication skills and flexibility important for success in this role.

What are Seasonal Scare Actors?

Seasonal Scare Actors are performers hired for limited periods, typically during Halloween or other themed events, to portray frightening characters in haunted houses, theme parks, or special attractions. Their main role is to entertain and scare guests by using costumes, makeup, props, and scripted or improvised performances. These actors must be enthusiastic, adaptable, and able to remain in character while working in sometimes dark, loud, or physically demanding environments. Seasonal Scare Actors usually work evenings and weekends, and their contracts last only for the duration of the event season.
More about Seasonal Scare Actor jobs
What cities are hiring for Seasonal Scare Actor jobs? Cities with the most Seasonal Scare Actor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Scare Actor jobs? The most popular types of Scare Actor jobs are:
What states have the most Seasonal Scare Actor jobs? States with the most job openings for Seasonal Scare Actor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Seasonal Scare Actor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Seasonal Scare Actor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Seasonal Scare Actor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 18% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,240 per year, or $16 per hour.
Seasonal Scare Actor

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

SEASONAL POSITION

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!

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.
Compensation:
First Year: $15 per hour
Returner: $15.50
Incentive Pay Starting 9/24: Work 5 productive hours after 6pm on event nights and earn an extra $1 on the hour!

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.

The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:

  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

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.