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Position Summary
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Are you jolly, kind-hearted, and full of holiday spirit? The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is looking for a cheerful and authentic
Santa Claus to help make magical memories at our beloved
Festival of Lights, one of the nation's most celebrated holiday traditions, 42 years and running. This is your chance to spread joy and create unforgettable experiences for families during the most wonderful time of the year!
Key Responsibilities:
- Portray Santa Claus with warmth, charisma, and genuine holiday cheer
- Engage with children and families for photos, wish lists, and merry conversation, ensuring every person feels safe, seen, and special
- Remain in character at all times while on shift. Ability to improvise and adapt on the fly, in a rapidly changing environment, all while maintaining continuity of Santa's character story.
- Maintain a clean and professional appearance of Santa attire (suit provided by the Zoo)
- Ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, particularly young visitors
- Uphold the family-friendly core values and inclusive spirit of the Zoo
- Ability to engage respectfully and sensitively with children who may have sensory sensitivities, developmental differences, or other neurodivergent traits
- Collaborate with the Zoo's Events team to maintain a smooth and magical experience
- Work in tandem with our Visitor Experience photography team to take memorable pictures of families meeting Santa, while keeping the line moving efficiently and giving/receiving feedback to tweak the process, as needed
Qualifications:
- Must embody the spirit of Santa-kind, patient, joyful, and magical
- Excellent with children and comfortable interacting with diverse groups of people
- Ability to remain seated for extended periods (with limited breaks) and maintain energy throughout the shift
- Previous Santa or costumed character experience a plus, but not required
- Experience working with individuals with special needs is a plus, but a warm heart and willingness to learn are essential.
- Background check required (the elves are very thorough)
- Real white beard is a bonus but not required
- Demonstrated understanding and acceptance of the Core Values and Behaviors of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, and an affinity for the Mission of the Zoo.
- Appropriate professional appearance, attitude, and personality to work effectively with Zoo staff members, guests and the public.
- Be timely and reliable in attendance and performance.
Schedule:
- Runs from mid-November through December 23. Closed on Thanksgiving.
- Evenings (Arrival at 3:00pm for 4:00 pm start - 9:00 pm on weekdays or 10:00pm on weekends).
- Also required to work during select days (TBD) for our Sensory Santa (starting at 1pm).
Pay: $40/hour, based on experience How to Apply:
If your sleigh bells are ringing and your cheeks are nice and rosy, apply now to become the star of the season at the Cincinnati Zoo's Festival of Lights! Submit a cover letter, resume, and portfolio with your application. We also ask for a 3-minute or less video interview submission - show us your Santa! Help us make spirits bright-one "Ho Ho Ho!" at a time.
Working Conditions:
While performing job duties, Santa must be prepared to sit for long periods of time, pick up kids and set them on his lap. Santa will primarily be stationed in a designated photo area that is enclosed and heated. Breaks will be provided during extended shifts. The Festival of Lights includes music, crowd noise, and bright displays. Santa should be comfortable working in a stimulating, festive environment with high visitor engagement.
HO! HO! HO!
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Cincinnati Zoo
Apr 18, 2025