We're hiring all kinds of people for the nation’s premier Halloween event and are committed to fostering an environment of diversity and inclusion where staff of varying backgrounds can thrive.
Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary runs select nights from mid-September through mid-November and employs more than 200 people each year. Available positions include actors, dancers, singers, circus and specialty performers, retail staff, line control staff, parking attendants, costumers, makeup artists, educators, tech crew and more. These jobs are demanding but FUN! Pay starts at $16.00 per hour, and more for management positions.
All staff must be 18 years old or older and must successfully complete a background check. Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. See Equal Opportunity Employer Statement below for more information.
Positions will be filled on a rolling basis. Early applicants have a greater chance at early hiring, and roles will continue to be filled throughout the season.
Below you will see categories of available jobs. Click on the category that interests you to learn more about those positions and to access the appropriate application form. Each of the following pages contains DIFFERENT information about interview or audition dates, application requirements, and required skills based on the specific position. Please read the instructions carefully.
Key Character Roles
Applicants must (1) complete an online application, and then (2) attend the in-person Key Character open audition on June 3rd anytime between 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Key Characters will help narrate the overarching story for Halloween Nights and serve as the “face” of the festival. Key Characters must be comfortable interacting with guests throughout the festival and will be highly photographed. They must also have a vast knowledge of the festival to help guests find their way around the site. Learn More >
Acting & Specialty Performer Roles
Applicants must (1) complete an online application, and then (2) attend an in-person audition. Performers are required to wear a costume and SFX makeup, which will be provided by Halloween Nights. You do not need to prepare a monologue; just come, have fun, give us your best scream, and show off your skills! No experience necessary. We're looking for passionate performers of all levels. Learn More >
Customer Service Positions
Applicants must (1) complete an online application, and then (2) attend an in-person interview for these roles. Positions include Retail, Guest Services, Parking Lot Attendant, Line Control, and Custodial. These positions require a lot of customer interaction. A positive attitude and a commitment to exceptional customer service are required. These positions require wearing either a uniform or a costume. Some costumed positions also require wearing SFX makeup. Learn More >
Education Team
Applicants must (1) complete an online application, and then (2) attend an in-person interview for these roles. The Education Team is responsible for facilitating all educational and historic programming during Halloween Nights. You are a great fit for this job if you are a natural at leading conversations, enthusiastic about engaging in open, respectful, and non-judgmental dialogue, willing and able to learn and share knowledge with a wide range of people, and exceptional in providing customer service in a fast-paced environment. Learn More >
Special FX Makeup Team
Applicants must (1) complete an online application, and then (2) bring their portfolio to an in-person interview. Applicants must be proficient and possess skills in basic and intermediate special FX makeup. This includes knowledge of and hands-on experience with airbrush makeup application, prosthetic application, Skin Illustrator, latex, gelatin and silicone appliances, and Pros Aide transfers. Learn More >
Costume & Props Team
** Not hiring for 2025. ** Applicants must be people-oriented problem solvers who can think on their feet. They must be proficient sewing both by hand and with a machine, have basic painting, repairing, and fabricating skills, be able to lift at least 50 lbs., and have the ability to take initiative and work independently. Learn More >
Seasonal Guest Support Assistants
** Not hiring for 2025. ** Seasonal Guest Support Assistants assist the Coordinator, Group and Member Sales with administrative and customer service duties. This is an office-based role. Learn More >
Tech Crew
** Not hiring for 2025. ** Ideal candidates for Build Crew and Show Techs possess the following skills: carpentry, general tool knowledge and use (drills, saws, screw guns, ladders, levels), OSHA 10 certification (ESPHS will provide this training if needed). Tech Crew members must routinely carry loads of up to 50 lbs. Learn More >
NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, creed, color, religion, alienage or national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, disability or handicap, sex, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, arrest record or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Our management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities and general treatment during employment. ESPHS strongly believes in second chances and, as such, is committed to providing appropriate employment opportunities to those who have been incarcerated. As a condition of employment, all individuals who accept an employment offer must complete a criminal background check. Eastern State will review any criminal record and make appropriate employment decisions in accordance with applicable law and its policies.
Commitment to Diversity: We strongly believe in the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize that a diverse workforce brings together unique perspectives, experiences, and talents, leading to increased creativity, innovation, and better decision-making. As such, we actively seek out and value job applicants from all backgrounds, races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientation, ages, or disability. Our commitment to DEI extends throughout our hiring process, ensuring equal opportunities and fair treatment for all candidates. We firmly believe that by fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, we can create a stronger, more vibrant, and more successful organization.