Seasonal Character Ambassador/Events Team Member

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium; Powell (OH); On-site; USD 17,000 - 21,000; Part time

Job summary

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is seeking an energetic seasonal Events & Promotions Team Member to help bring magical experiences to our family of parks, including Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, The Wilds, and Safari Golf Club. You will set up, run, and wrap events, perform as a character ambassador, and engage guests with interactive activities.

Ideal candidates are enthusiastic, team‑oriented, and flexible to work weekends, holidays, and varied weather in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Experience engaging guests in fast-paced environments.
• Ability to perform as a character ambassador and guide for events.
• Comfort with interactive games and crowd participation.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the set-up, execution, and breakdown of events, activities, and performances.
• Perform as a character ambassador for on-site and off-site events.
• Provide creative guest engagement and memorable experiences through interactive activities.
• Support a positive, energetic work environment and strong team morale.
• Deliver programming aligned with guest service standards and participate in scheduled activities.

Skills

Guest engagement

Character performance

Event setup

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

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. If you’re enthusiastic, team‑oriented, and ready to help make every moment special, this is the role for you!

The Events & Promotions Team Member supports high‑quality guest experiences by assisting with event execution, character programs, and interactive engagement. This role supports our family of parks—Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Zoombezi Bay, The Wilds, and Safari Golf Club. This role contributes to the success of seasonal programming through creativity, professionalism, and strong teamwork. Seasonal team members must be available for the duration of the program season and required training dates.

Guest Engagement & Programming

• 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.

Safety, Compliance & Operational Support

• 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.

Seasonal & Cross‑Department Support

• Collaborate effectively across departments to ensure clear communication and smooth event execution.
• Maintain a flexible schedule including weekends, weekdays, evenings, and holidays.
• May rotate within assigned areas as operationally needed.
• Work indoors and outdoors in varied weather conditions such as extreme heat, rain, wind, or cold.
• Assist with set‑up, clean‑up, and organization of program materials and equipment.
• Assist with additional duties as assigned within the operational needs of the department.

Minimum 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.
• Ability to maintain cooperative, respectful, and professional relationships with team members.
• Must 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
• Able to safely climb ladders and work at heights up to 100 feet and/or in enclosed spaces.
• Able 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.
• Must 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.