Position Summary
Appear as Costume Character, Character Host, Stilt Walker, Educational Performer and / or Interpreter multiple times per day in assigned locations. Perform appearances for special events, media or promotional purposes. Perform other strategic guest interactions throughout the Aquarium. Act as a brand ambassador for The Florida Aquarium.
Essential Position Functions
- Performs Costume, Stilt or Host appearances in assigned areas up to six times per day
- Manages safety of both characters and guests on set
- Performs other strategic guest interactions in assigned areas according to schedules
- Performs daily physical and vocal warm-ups as needed to perform safely
- Maintains appearance, character, and program quality as approved by Supervisor(s)
- Takes and implements show or other program notes from Supervisor(s) to ensure top quality performance
- Assists in training of other departments for cross-training and employee development
- Maintains costume and make-up requirements based on assignment
- Assists in light cleaning and maintenance of break and performance areas
- Reports costume or show issues to Supervisor(s) in a timely manner
- Shows courteous and professional behavior with The Florida Aquarium team and guests
- Maintains team spirit with fellow Team Members to ensure seamless guest service
- Assists in the development and presentation of new and exciting guest encounters
- Aids in the organizational and conservational goals set by The Florida Aquarium
- Supports TFA's Shared Purpose by participating in a Conservation Day of Action on an annual basis
- Respects and embodies the company values and mission
- Other duties as assigned by Supervisor(s)
Education and Experience Requisites
Theatrical Performance, Atmospheric Entertainment, Costume Character or Mascot ExperienceA Bachelor's degree, or 2+ years work experience, in Performing or Visual Arts, Education or related fieldsExperience working with children in a performance or educational settingStilt walking experience or willingness to be trainedSuccessful audition with The Florida Aquarium and any contracted partiesTechnical Preferences
Sings or plays an instrumentBilingual / Spanish Language prefferedDriver's LicenseMinor Textile MaintenanceSoftware Operation - Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Power Point)Competencies
Performance - Bringing defined characters to life in a way that supports the intent of the management team while entertaining and educating the guests.Customer Service Orientation - Listening and understanding the customer (both internal and external) and anticipating and evaluating the customer's needs; making the customer's satisfaction a high priority in all areas of responsibility.Teamwork - supporting, facilitating, and participating in activities that promote team effectiveness, demonstrating sensitivity for the feelings and needs of team members and supporting team goals.Integrity / Trust - Demonstrates uncompromising adherence to ethical principles, organizational and social norms; builds trust with staff, internal and external customers; respects the confidentiality of personal and proprietary informationJudgment - Deciding on and committing to an action on the examination of the facts at hand; finding creative solutions to situations and opportunities that arise; taking strategic risks when necessary.Concern for Detail - Pays attention to every portion of any task.Communication (oral, physical and written) - Effectively expressing ideas verbally and non-verbally and actively listening to individuals and groups; preparing and focusing presentations to the characteristics and needs of the audience; expressing ideas clearly and concisely in written form, through memoranda, letters, reports and other documents.Typical Physical Requirements
Height Range of 5'3" - 5'8"Weight of 200 lbs or less to safely operate stilt equipmentSitting - 1 hour per dayStanding - 4 hours per dayPerforming inside an inflatable costume - an average of 3 hours or more per daySpeaking / Projecting to large crowds throughout the dayWalking - 4 hours per dayBending / Stooping - OccasionallySquatting - OccasionallyFrequently reaching above shouldersKneeling - OccasionallyPushing / Pulling - OccasionallyCarrying (up to 40 lbs.) - OccasionallyLifting (up to 40 lbs.) - OccasionallyUse of hand tools - OccasionallyExposure to marked changes in temperature and humidityExposure to dust, fumes and gasesCoping with demands (stresses associated with the job and / or the work environment so that acceptable levels of performance and overall contribution are maintained)Ability to travel (car) as needed - locally and / or nationallyAbility to travel (air) as neededFlexibility in working weekends and eveningsFlexibility in working holidaysrecblid 1mzj1wuvrfyn45lhrfvs2mqkx0m05k