Position SummaryAppear as Costume Character, Character Host, 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 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 educators 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
- 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 Experience
- A Bachelor's degree, or 2+ years work experience, in Performing or Visual Arts, Education or related fields
- Experience working with children in a performance or educational setting
- Stilt walking experience preffered
- Successful audition with The Florida Aquarium and any contracted parties
Technical Preferences- Sings or plays an instrument
- Bilingual/Spanish Language
- Driver's License
- Minor Textile Maintenance
- Software 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 information
- Judgment - 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 - 5'3" - 5'8" (Some exceptions will be considered)
- Sitting - 1 hour per day
- Standing - 4 hours per day
- Performing inside an inflatable costume - an average of 3 hours or more per day
- Speaking / Projecting to large crowds throughout the day
- Walking - 4 hours per day
- Bending/Stooping - Occasionally
- Squatting - Occasionally
- Climbing stairs
- Frequently reaching above shoulders
- Kneeling - Occasionally
- Pushing/Pulling - Occasionally
- Carrying (up to 40 lbs.) - Occasionally
- Lifting (up to 40 lbs.) - Occasionally
- Use of hand tools - Occasionally
- Exposure to marked changes in temperature and humidity
- Exposure to dust, fumes and gases
- Coping 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 nationally
- Ability to travel (air) as needed
- Flexibility in working weekends and evenings
- Flexibility in working holidays
