As the nation’s premier Halloween event, we pride ourselves not only on providing high quality entertainment, but also exceptional customer service. Whether visitors are parking, buying tickets, entering the building, screaming in a haunted house, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying private events, we want them to have a first-class experience. We need friendly and energetic employees to make all of this possible!
Please read the descriptions that follow to decide which position best suits you.
- Retail Staff: Our retail staff run cash registers, interact with visitors, and restock, organize and sell our exclusive line of merchandise. Members of this team also answer basic questions about Eastern State’s other programming and hand out brochures encouraging Halloween Nights guests to return for a daytime prison tour. An interest in history is a plus. Customer service skills and cash handling experience are encouraged. Some computer skills/POS are required. Retail staff wear a uniform; they do not wear SFX makeup.
- Guest Services Staff: Guest services staff are positioned at checkpoints throughout the attraction and in front of house spaces. Guest services staff help orient visitors, answer guests’ questions, scan tickets, and keep an eye out for situations that should be brought to the attention of security. This position requires a friendly, upbeat attitude and patience. Guests services staff wear a uniform; they do not wear SFX makeup.
- Parking Lot Attendant: This team shares some of the same responsibility as guest services staff, but they work at our off-site parking garage at the Philadelphia Zoo (3500 West Girard Ave). This team does not work on-site at the penitentiary. In addition to orienting visitors and answering questions, this team hands out information sheets, collects parking vouchers, and assists guests in boarding and exiting the buses. They do not collect cash or direct the parking of cars. Excellent customer service skills are required. Parking Lot Attendants wear a uniform; they do not wear SFX makeup.
- Line Control Staff: Our line control staff help orient and control the flow of visitors inside and outside of the penitentiary. They work near the entrance of the building and the perimeter as well, guiding guests and groups through the entry process by helping them find the appropriate line, answering event questions, and providing exceptional customer service. Other responsibilities are to control the flow of the show, while being the eyes and ears for the safety of guests and employees. This position requires energy and patience! Line control staff employees wear costumes and SFX makeup every show night to enhance the look and feel of the experience. No acting experience required.
- Custodial Staff: Our custodial staff is in charge of keeping the site looking professional and clean. They operate outside of the haunted attractions. Custodial staff must be able to lift 50 pounds and work independently. Examples of responsibilities include sweeping, breaking down cardboard boxes, routinely taking out garbage and recycling, and other duties as assigned. Custodial staff wear a uniform; they do not wear SFX makeup.
To Apply:
1. First, complete an online application.
2. Then, attend an in-person customer service interview at one of the following times:
- Tuesday, July 1st (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Thursday, July 17th (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Tuesday, July 22nd (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Tuesday, July 29th (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Tuesday, August 5th (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Tuesday, August 19th (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Tuesday, August 26th (6 PM - 8 PM)
- Tuesday, September 30th (6 PM - 8 PM)
Please wear closed-toe shoes, and please bring water and your resume to the interview. Applicants without a resume will not be allowed to interview. Customer service interviews are held at Eastern State Penitentiary, 2027 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia. You do not need to make an appointment. Late arrivals will not be permitted.
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.
Interested in a different kind of role? Return to the overview page to explore other open Halloween Nights positions.
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.