Seasonal Character Ambassador/Events Team Member

About the role

Join the Fun Behind the Scenes! Looking for a seasonal job that’s energetic, creative, and truly memorable? As an Events & Promotions Team Member, you’ll help bring magic to life across our entire family of parks, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, The Wilds, and Safari Golf Club. From supporting exciting events to engaging guests through character programs and interactive activities, you’ll play a key role in delivering unforgettable experiences.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the set-up, execution, and breakdown of events, activities, and performances.
• Enthusiastically connect with guests by performing as a character ambassador and character guide for both on-site and off-site events.
• Provide creative guest engagement and exceptional experiences through interactive games, activities, and crowd participation.
• Support a positive and energetic work environment that encourages strong team morale.
• Deliver programming in alignment with Zoo guest service standards and actively participate in scheduled activities.
• Report needed repairs or restocking of supplies, characters, accessories, and equipment.
• May operate Zoo vehicles, including golf carts, minivans, and cargo vans.
• Follow safety protocols, emergency procedures, and departmental standard operating procedures at all times.
• Maintain proper check-in procedures and adhere to all program rules while supporting a safe environment for guests and team members.
• Collaborate effectively across departments to ensure clear communication and smooth event execution.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varied weather conditions such as extreme heat, rain, wind, or cold.
• Absorb and wear full-body costumes (heat, restricted vision, limited mobility).
• Physically capable of performing basic and strenuous tasks for extended periods, including bending, squatting, kneeling, repetitive motion, and fine hand manipulation.
• Standing on hard surfaces for long periods.
• Lifting and carrying 50 lbs.
• Moving equipment or materials.
• Safely climb ladders and work at heights up to 100 feet and/or in enclosed spaces.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions including extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and wind.
• Absorb and wear full-body costumes (heat, restricted vision, limited mobility).
• Physically capable of performing basic and strenuous tasks for extended periods, including bending, squatting, kneeling, repetitive motion, and fine hand manipulation.
• Standing on hard surfaces for long periods.
• Lifting and carrying 50 lbs.
• Moving equipment or materials.
• Safely climb ladders and work at heights up to 100 feet and/or in enclosed spaces.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions including extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and wind.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to maintain cooperative, respectful, and professional relationships with team members.
• Maintain a professional employee appearance following Zoo uniform and grooming guidelines.
• Reliable transportation required.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in children’s theatre, recreation, education, entertainment, or costume character performance.
• Experience working in fast-paced or guest-facing environments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform under the demands of full-body costumes (heat, restricted vision, limited mobility).
• Physically capable of performing basic and strenuous tasks for extended periods, including bending, squatting, kneeling, repetitive motion, and fine hand manipulation.
• Standing on hard surfaces for long periods.
• Lifting and carrying 50 lbs.
• Moving equipment or materials.
• Safely climb ladders and work at heights up to 100 feet and/or in enclosed spaces.
• Ability to work in varied weather conditions including extreme temperatures, rain, snow, and wind.

Seasonal Employment Standards

• Attendance at mandatory training sessions is required.
• Subject to the Columbus Zoo’s Drug Free Workplace policy.
• Subject to BMV record check.
• Must successfully complete BCI & FBI fingerprint criminal background screening.
• Demonstrate courteous and helpful behavior consistent with Zoo guest service standards.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Must follow all Columbus Zoo & Aquarium policies, procedures, and behavioral expectations as outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Ability to take initiative and step in where needed to support team goals without prompting.
• Ability to balance multiple tasks and adapt quickly to changing operational needs.