Costume Character - Mascot; Part-Time

Join to apply for the Costume Character - Mascot (Part-Time) role at Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park

4 weeks ago – Be among the first 25 applicants.

Become the Heart of Zoo Tampa's Immersive Adventures!

Are you ready to bring our costume characters to life and create exceptional, personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways? We're seeking enthusiastic performers to make our characters as iconic and memorable as our amazing animals. Join us in inspiring every guest to protect and preserve wildlife!

Position Summary

• Under the direction of the Event Productions management, represent Zoo Tampa as a costume character (Mascot) for surprise and delight encounters, multiple seasonal events, fundraisers, and outreach opportunities.

Who We Are

Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park is one of the most popular zoos in the southeastern U.S., with over 1.2 million visitors annually. We cover 56 acres of naturalistic wildlife habitats in a lush, tropical garden setting with wide‑range activities. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), we offer popular educational programming, fun recreational amenities, up‑close animal encounters, and engaging seasonal events for which we have won awards as one of the country’s most family‑friendly zoos.

Our Mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and care for animals; create exceptional personalized experiences that connect people with wildlife and each other in fun, immersive ways.

Our Vision is that everyone we touch is motivated to join us in taking action to protect and preserve wildlife.

Your day to day

• Perform up to five 30‑minute sets per day while wearing a costume that may weigh up to 50 lbs.
• Represent Zoo Tampa as a Mascot for daily operations, off‑site outreach opportunities, and seasonal events, including Creatures of the Night, Christmas in the Wild, fundraising events, and other assigned events.
• Ensure costumes are well‑maintained, clean, and presentable for Zoo Tampa guests, reporting any issues or necessary repairs as needed.
• Prioritize the safety of employees and guests during Mascot sets by proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Experience in non‑verbal performance.
• Be personable and animated with a fun, outgoing personality.
• Must be able to carry the weight of a full costume character for up to 1 hour at a time while performing.
• Ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences, responding to sensitive inquiries or complaints with professionalism and tact.
• Demonstrates a high level of discretion when handling confidential information related to Zoo Tampa events and development efforts.

Other Requirements

• Conduct all activities in alignment with AZA standards and guidelines, all relevant laws and regulations, safety standards, and standards that ensure animal welfare.
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions typical to west central Florida (heat, rain, or cold).
• Ability to use radio, telephone, and computer to communicate and follow written and verbal instructions.
• Must be able to work varied and long shifts including holidays and weekends.
• Must be able to work in a variety of physical positions, including sitting, bending, standing, walking, and driving.
• Must be able to lift over 50 pounds.

Our Perks at Zoo Tampa

• Retirement 403(b) plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Free gym membership
• Free membership to the Zoo, MOSI, and the Florida Aquarium
• Free or discounted admission to many attractions in Florida
• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise
• Discounted auto insurance
• And so much more!

Equal Opportunity Employer & Drug‑Free Workplace

• Entry level

• Part‑time

• Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing
• Hospitality