Division/Department: Marketing

Job Title: Santa

Reports To: Marketing Manager/Special Events and Entertainment Manager

Type of position: Non-Exempt / Hourly

Employee Classification: Temporary

Location: 226 Everett St, Bryson City, NC 28713

Compensation: $20-30 DOE

Job Summary: Perform in a friendly, outgoing, and gregarious way that can convincingly embody the spirit of Christmas. Must be able to sustain the “magic” of Santa while interacting with passengers of the train on the POLAR EXPRESS.

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Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Portray the Santa character from the POLAR EXPRESS™ story, giving each designated passenger a bell while on the train.
• Allow photo opportunities and interact with passengers while managing time to be sure to have equal amounts of interaction on assigned train cars.
• Enthusiastically represent Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and the POLAR EXPRESS™ brand.
• Positively interact with guests and team members of all ages, ethnic/cultural backgrounds and/or languages, and individuals with special needs.
• Consistently perform a high standard of guest service throughout the event.
• Openly accepts performance feedback and adapts to supervisory guidance.

Education, Skill and Work Experience Requirements:

• Previous performance experience as a Santa Claus character is beneficial, but not required.
• Be familiar with the story of the POLAR EXPRESS™
• Applicant must be able to portray a character over the age of 40.
• Possess a jolly laugh and personality.
• Natural, full, white beard required.
• Audition requirements may include script reading and memorization, role playing, and comedic improvisation as necessary.
• Must have strong verbal communication skills.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule with night, weekend and holiday hours.
• Must be able to disclose accurate availability for all event dates during the audition process.
• Must be able to stand, sit, and/or walk on a moving train for extended periods of time without assistance.

Work Environment:

• Will vary depending on the character being portrayed, to include but not limited to on board a moving train, walking throughout cars, and/or stationary at the North Pole event site
• Level of direct engagement with the public will vary based on performing role.
• At GSMR we value teamwork and fostering a supportive work environment