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ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Costume Character - Mascot (Part-Time)

ZooTampa at Lowry Park, Tampa, Florida, us, 33646

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Costume Character - Mascot (Part-Time)

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ZooTampa at Lowry Park

4 weeks ago – Be among the first 25 applicants.

Become the Heart of ZooTampa'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 ZooTampa as a costume character (Mascot) for surprise and delight encounters, multiple seasonal events, fundraisers, and outreach opportunities.

Who We Are

ZooTampa 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 ZooTampa 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 ZooTampa 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 ZooTampa 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 ZooTampa

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

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Part‑time

Job function

Marketing, Public Relations, and Writing/Editing

Hospitality

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