Mermaid Performer (Part-Time)
Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center
Location: Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center – Woodbridge, NJ
Position Type: Part-Time Employee
Department: Guest Experience / Education
Reports To: Guest Experience Manager or designated supervisor.
Schedule: Primarily weekends, holidays, and peak attendance days; typical shifts occur mid-day with some seasonal evening events.
Position Summary:
The Mermaid Performer creates magical, engaging, and educational guest experiences through character performance, storytelling, and interactive appearances. This role supports the mission of Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center by inspiring curiosity, conservation awareness, and positive connections with aquatic life. The ideal candidate is energetic, guest-focused, and comfortable engaging with children and families in a dynamic environment.
Experience or willingness to safely enter aquatic exhibit tanks is a bonus qualification, though not required.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Guest Experience & Performance:
- Perform as a mermaid character during scheduled appearances, special events, and seasonal programming.
- Interact with guests through meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, storytelling, and scripted educational messaging.
- Maintain character integrity, professionalism, and family-friendly interactions at all times.
- Adapt engagement style to various audiences, including young children, school groups, and large crowds.
Education & Mission Support:
- Share approved animal facts and conservation messages aligned with the facility’s mission.
- Encourage respectful guest behavior and curiosity about aquatic animals.
- Support themed events, birthdays, VIP visits, and educational programming as scheduled.
Aquatic Interaction (Bonus Qualification):
- Ability and willingness to safely enter designated aquatic exhibit tanks for approved mermaid programming.
- Follow all animal welfare, safety, and water-quality protocols.
- Work collaboratively with animal care staff during any in-water appearances.
Safety & Professional Standards:
- Follow all facility policies, aquatic safety guidelines, and performance protocols.
- Maintain awareness of guest safety and promptly communicate concerns to leadership.
- Use approved entry/exit methods and remain within designated performance areas.
Team Collaboration:
- Arrive on time, prepared, and performance-ready for scheduled shifts.
- Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding scheduling, guest flow, and operational needs.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of costume and performance areas.
Qualifications:
- Experience in performance, entertainment, guest engagement, education, or working with children preferred.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Comfortable engaging with large groups and being photographed or recorded by guests.
- Reliable, punctual, and able to follow direction and facility standards.
Preferred / Bonus Qualifications:
- Confident swimmer with comfort performing in aquatic environments.
- Experience entering pools, tanks, or controlled aquatic exhibits.
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
- Lifeguard certification or water safety training (a plus).
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, kneel, and pose for extended periods.
- Ability to move safely while wearing a mermaid costume.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs (costumes, props).
- Ability to work in warm, humid environments.
Costume & Appearance Standards:
- Mermaid costume may be provided or approved by the facility.
- Hair, makeup, and costume presentation must be professional, family-friendly, and camera-ready.
- Must comply with all costume safety and hygiene standards.
Equal Opportunity Statement:
Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.