Seasonal Scare Actor

Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun, and positive, lasting memories. As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to guests from around the world. Join our Howl-O-Scream 2026 Scare Acting team and be part of the haunt!

About the role

Howl-O-Scream Season runs September through November 2026. Auditions will take place most Fridays and Saturdays through August—details provided upon scheduling.

Responsibilities

• Perform as characters to startle and scare guests at Busch Gardens Tampa Howl-O-Scream.
• Consistently perform multiple scares repetitively throughout the night (some positions may involve strenuous physical activity).
• Clock in and out at the beginning and end of assigned shifts.
• Take and implement direction from persons of authority.
• Maintain a tidy and safe work area.
• Work well with a diverse group of co-workers.
• Supply your own black pants, black socks, black shoes, and black shirt.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must be available to work potentially between 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM on rehearsal and event nights.
• Must be available for the majority of event nights. Availability will be one factor used in determining employment offer and/or role placement.
• Many positions require wearing makeup (provided by BGT). Some positions require wearing a costume mask, helmet, wig, or hat (provided by BGT).
• Costumes for characters will be provided by BGT and remain the property of BGT.
• Must be able to perform assigned character for up to 2 hours at a time. Performance may include standing, walking, or other strenuous physical activity.
• Perform the following physical activities on a frequent basis: stand, walk, climb, bend (floor-to-waist/waist-to-overhead), reach overhead, simple grasp, and fine manipulation tasks.
• Work both indoors and outdoors, exposed to a variety of weather conditions.
• Position may be exposed to heat/cold temperature extremes, chemicals, fumes/dust/odor, atmospheric lighting, strobe lighting, or dim lighting.
• Based on needs and availability, some positions may not work every night of the event.

Pay

• First Year: $15 per hour
• Returner: $15.50 per hour
• Incentive Pay: Work 5 productive hours after 6 PM on event nights and earn an extra $1 on the hour starting 9/24.

Benefits

• Free park admission
• Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
• Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
• Scholarship opportunities
• Exclusive employee events and giveaways