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Union Acting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CAMP

Actors/Performers

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$22/hr

CAMP is seeking Actors/Performers for a large-scale, family-friendly immersive experience in our ... This is a non-union job

CAMP

Actors/Performers

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$22/hr

CAMP is seeking Actors/Performers for a large-scale, family-friendly immersive experience in our ... This is a non-union job

OnPath Credit Union

Mortgage Loan Officer

Metairie, LA · On-site

$56K - $70K/yr

... union. • Keeps promises and commitments, earns and maintains trust of others by acting consistently with words and actions. Is direct and truthful by providing straight, honest feedback. Keeps ...

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All JobsUnion Acting Jobs

Union Acting information

See salary details

$36.5K

$61.1K

$101.5K

How much do union acting jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for union acting in the United States is $61,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $63,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you get into an actor's union?

To join an actor's union such as SAG-AFTRA, you typically need to accumulate a certain number of work credits in union-approved productions or be hired directly through a union contract. Applicants must also pay initiation fees and meet eligibility requirements, which may include demonstrating professional acting experience and signing a union contract agreement.

How much does a union actor make?

Union actors typically earn between $1,000 and $3,000 per week for principal roles, with rates varying based on the production, union agreements, and experience. Additional compensation may include residuals, overtime, and per diems, especially for longer projects or commercials. Union membership requires meeting specific criteria and adhering to industry standards set by organizations like SAG-AFTRA.

What is union acting?

Union acting refers to performing as an actor while being a member of a professional actors' union, such as SAG-AFTRA in the United States or Equity in the UK. These unions set standards for working conditions, pay rates, and benefits to protect their members. Union actors can only work on projects that follow union guidelines, which often leads to better pay and safer work environments. Joining a union can also provide access to auditions for higher-profile projects and additional resources for career development.

What are some common challenges actors face when working under union contracts, and how can they prepare for them?

Union actors often encounter challenges such as navigating complex contract terms, adhering to strict audition and rehearsal schedules, and maintaining eligibility for union benefits. Understanding union rules and staying organized with paperwork are key to a smooth experience. It's helpful to regularly review union updates, communicate openly with agents, and network with fellow union members for support. Preparation and familiarity with union resources can help actors advocate for themselves and make the most of available opportunities.

Is it worth joining an actor's union?

Joining an actor's union, such as SAG-AFTRA, provides access to industry-standard contracts, health and pension benefits, and protections on set. Membership can also improve job prospects and bargaining power, but it involves paying dues and meeting eligibility requirements. For union actors, membership is often essential for working on major productions and gaining credibility in the industry.

What is the difference between Union Acting vs Non-Union Acting?

AspectUnion ActingNon-Union Acting
CredentialsUnion membership, union-specific contractsNo union membership required
Work EnvironmentOften in unionized productions, regulated working hoursVaries, may include non-union projects with different conditions
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in major studios, theater, and TV productionsFreelance, independent projects, smaller productions

Union Acting involves working under union contracts, offering benefits and regulated working conditions, while Non-Union Acting typically involves freelance work without union protections. Both paths are common in the entertainment industry, with union acting providing more stability and non-union offering flexibility.

What unions do actors belong to?

Actors often belong to unions such as the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) and the Actors' Equity Association. These unions provide collective bargaining, job protections, and benefits for performers in film, television, and theater productions.

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

To thrive as a Union Actor, you need strong acting technique, script analysis abilities, and formal training, often supported by membership in a professional actors' union like SAG-AFTRA or Actors' Equity. Familiarity with casting platforms, self-taping technology, and union contracts is typically required. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and resilience help actors stand out in auditions and on set. These skills and qualifications are crucial for securing roles, meeting industry standards, and sustaining a professional acting career.
What cities are hiring for Union Acting jobs? Cities with the most Union Acting job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Acting jobs? The most popular types of Acting jobs are:
What states have the most Union Acting jobs? States with the most job openings for Union Acting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Union Acting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Union Acting jobs are:
Union Acting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Union Acting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,129 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Acting Instructor

Acting Instructor

Cooperative Educational Services

Trumbull, CT • On-site

$53.83/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

Position:  Acting Instructor

Program/Department:  Regional Center for the Arts (RCA)
Position Length:  Following the school calendar, Monday - Thursday, 12:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. on days when school is in session
Salary Range:  $53.83 per hour (16 hours per week)
Anticipated Start Date:  August 20, 2026
Closing Date of Applications:  Open until filled
Qualifications:  Significant professional experience or Bachelor's Degree in subject.  Certification is NOT required.  See attached job description.
Responsibilities:  RCA is a part-time inter-district magnet high school committed to bringing together people of diverse cultural heritage to develop in all students the knowledge, skills, attitudes and self-discipline to reach their fullest artistic potential, to live a productive life and to contribute to society as creative engaged citizens.  Plan instruction and teach assigned classes, create and administer assessments, maintain accurate records of student attendance and achievement, collaborate with other members of the RCA faculty, attend staff meetings, communicate with parents, and other assigned duties.  











We are particularly interested in finding someone who can teach multiple levels of acting to high school students.  Understanding of the major acting techniques is important, as is being a team player.  Our Acting Department teachers collaborate on both instruction and productions.  The teacher will also direct 1-2 productions per year.  Professional acting or directing experience is highly desired.  For more information about the position, please contact Eric Nyquist at nyquiste@cestrumbull.org  See attached job description.
Apply online at https://www.applitrack.com/ces/onlineapp/.  Applicants must include a letter of intent, resume, official transcripts, and at least 3 references.
These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. Specific duties and responsibilities may vary, depending on the assignment.  C.E.S. reserves the right to add/ change duties at any time.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and those applications received after the close of business on the closing date are not required to be considered.
An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer
"It is the policy of C.E.S. that no person shall be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise discriminated against under any service or program on account of race, color, religious creed, age, marital or civil union status, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ancestry, residence, veteran status, victim of domestic violence, present or past history of mental disorder, mental retardation, learning disability or physical disability including, but not limited to, blindness, or pregnancy and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding C.E.S. nondiscrimination policies should be directed to the Associate Executive Director's office, C.E.S., 40 Lindeman Dr., Trumbull, CT 06611, (203) 365-8831."
 












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