To apply please copy and paste this link and fill out the application form https://wildplanettrust.ciphr-irecruit.com/applicants.
Please note only applications completed through our website will be considered.
Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in south west England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by the people who visit the zoos and the expertise and dedication of our staff.
Paignton Zoo first opened its doors as the Torbay Zoological Gardens in 1923. Over 100 years later, our site, and work, has grown considerably and we are now one of the South West’s largest conservation organisations and top visitor attractions. There are over 230 species of animal that call Paignton Zoo home. As well as being a zoo, we’re also an award winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species on record.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Mascot Performer to join our Food and Beverage team on a fixed term contract for our 2025 season. You will be working a minimum of 15 hours a week; hours will vary over a 7-day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. Hours will be variable to meet the demands of the business and our opening times. The pay for this position is national minimum wage
What will this role involve?
You’ll play a key role in the overall experience of our visitors helping to create happy memories, engaging and inspiring our younger visitors to find wonder and value in nature. You will be either leading the character or perform in the character costume, preserving the identity of our mascot while maintaining the established character, body language, mannerisms and attitude. The role will also involve caring and maintaining the costume to ensure it is always in a visitor-ready condition.
What skills and experience are required?
The ideal candidates will be a confident performer capable of engaging audiences, easily connect with visitors of all ages and abilities and be able to read social cues to understand the level of engagement each visitor may want. You need to be able to work in outdoor weather conditions including extreme heat, cold and rain. You will also be calm under pressure and happy to perform inside a bulky costume. Maximum height 5ft11 due to costume restrictions.
Benefits of joining our team include:
· 33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
· Branded uniform provided (as required)
· Relevant internal and external training provided including First Aid and Mental Health First Aid
· Free entry to our zoos for staff and family
· Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable)
· Free staff parking
· Employee Assistance Programme
· Opportunities to join our Firearms team (subject to conditions)
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Please note, we will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews throughout the advertising period for this role. The role may therefore be filled prior to the closing date.
Job Types: Part-time, Temporary
Contract length: 4 months
Pay: Up to £12.21 per hour
Expected hours: 15 per week
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 30/06/2025
Reference ID: MP/FB/0625
