Mermaid Performer

Mermaid Performer (Part-Time)

Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center

Location: Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center – Woodbridge, NJ

Position Type: Part-Time Employee

Department: Guest Experience / Education

Reports To: Guest Experience Manager or designated supervisor

Schedule: Primarily weekends, holidays, and peak attendance days; typical shifts occur mid-day with some seasonal evening events.

Position Summary

The Mermaid Performer creates magical, engaging, and educational guest experiences through character performance, storytelling, and interactive appearances. This role supports the mission of Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center by inspiring curiosity, conservation awareness, and positive connections with aquatic life. The ideal candidate is energetic, guest-focused, and comfortable engaging with children and families in a dynamic environment.

Experience or willingness to safely enter aquatic exhibit tanks is a bonus qualification , though not required.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Guest Experience & Performance:

• Perform as a mermaid character during scheduled appearances, special events, and seasonal programming.
• Interact with guests through meet-and-greets, photo opportunities, storytelling, and scripted educational messaging.
• Maintain character integrity, professionalism, and family-friendly interactions at all times.
• Adapt engagement style to various audiences, including young children, school groups, and large crowds.

Education & Mission Support:

• Share approved animal facts and conservation messages aligned with the facility’s mission.
• Encourage respectful guest behavior and curiosity about aquatic animals.
• Support themed events, birthdays, VIP visits, and educational programming as scheduled.

Aquatic Interaction (Bonus Qualification):

• Ability and willingness to safely enter designated aquatic exhibit tanks for approved mermaid programming.
• Follow all animal welfare, safety, and water-quality protocols.
• Work collaboratively with animal care staff during any in-water appearances.

Safety & Professional Standards:

• Follow all facility policies, aquatic safety guidelines, and performance protocols.
• Maintain awareness of guest safety and promptly communicate concerns to leadership.
• Use approved entry/exit methods and remain within designated performance areas.

Team Collaboration:

• Arrive on time, prepared, and performance-ready for scheduled shifts.
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members regarding scheduling, guest flow, and operational needs.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of costume and performance areas.

Qualifications:

• Experience in performance, entertainment, guest engagement, education, or working with children preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Comfortable engaging with large groups and being photographed or recorded by guests.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to follow direction and facility standards.

Preferred / Bonus Qualifications:

• Confident swimmer with comfort performing in aquatic environments.
• Experience entering pools, tanks, or controlled aquatic exhibits.
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Lifeguard certification or water safety training (a plus).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand, walk, kneel, and pose for extended periods.
• Ability to move safely while wearing a mermaid costume.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs (costumes, props).
• Ability to work in warm, humid environments.

Costume & Appearance Standards:

• Mermaid costume may be provided or approved by the facility.
• Hair, makeup, and costume presentation must be professional, family-friendly, and camera-ready.
• Must comply with all costume safety and hygiene standards.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.