Christmas Grotto Elf

THE ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF LONDON; Greater London; On-site; GBP 12,000 - 18,000; Part time

Job summary

ZSL London Zoo is seeking a Christmas Elf for the Magic of Christmas event. You will help bring festive magic in Santa’s Grotto or at the Main Entrance, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages with warm, joyful interaction.

The eight-week fixed-term role requires 12–18 hours per week initially, rising to about 30 hours in the final two weeks when the Grotto operates daily. Schedules follow a rota, including weekends and bank holidays, with advance notice.

Qualifications

• Must love Christmas and Santa.
• Willing to work a rota including weekends and bank holidays.

Responsibilities

• Craft Activity Support: Assist children with the craft activity in the grotto, ensuring each child enjoys their magical time with Santa.
• Operational Efficiency: Ensure the grotto runs smoothly and on time, reporting any issues or concerns promptly.
• Event Set-Up and Close-Down: Support the Events team with the daily set-up, smooth running, and close-down of the grotto.
• Visitor Engagement: Engage warmly with visitors throughout their experience, spreading festive cheer and ensuring every guest leaves feeling the magic of Christmas.

Job description

As a Christmas Elf at ZSL London Zoo, you’ll help bring the magic and sparkle to our Magic of Christmas event, creating unforgettable memories for every visitor. With boundless enthusiasm and festive cheer, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring guests of all ages enjoy a truly special experience.

You will be working in Santa’s Grotto, where you’ll deliver a magical paid-for experience, helping families make lasting memories with Father Christmas. You may also be based at our Main Entrance, giving visitors a warm, festive welcome as they begin their journey through the zoo.

This role is all about spreading joy, laughter, and festive spirit. From engaging with excited children and their families to creating a fun and immersive atmosphere across the zoo, you’ll be at the heart of the Christmas magic. Of course, a love of Christmas and Santa is absolutely essential!

This role is offered on an 8-week fixed-term contract. Working hours will average 12-18 hours per week initially, increasing to approximately 30 hours per week during the final two weeks, when the Grotto operates daily. As our zoos are open seven days a week, your schedule will follow a rota, which includes weekends and bank holidays. We aim to balance business needs with personal flexibility, so you’ll have advance notice of your shifts to help plan your time.

Key responsibilities:

• Craft Activity Support: Assist children with the craft activity in the grotto, ensuring each child enjoys their magical time with Santa.
• Operational Efficiency: Ensure the grotto runs smoothly and on time, reporting any issues or concerns promptly.
• Event Set-Up and Close-Down: Support the Events team with the daily set-up, smooth running, and close-down of the grotto.
• Visitor Engagement: Engage warmly with visitors throughout their experience, spreading festive cheer and ensuring every guest leaves feeling the magic of Christmas.