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 features a variety of attractions and experiences including haunted houses, historic tours, museum exhibits, themed bars and lounges, live performances, and more! All proceeds from Halloween Nights support the preservation and interpretation of Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark.
Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary runs select nights from September 22 through November 11, 2023 and employs a variety of people to fill more than 200 positions. 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.
Below you will see the categories of available jobs. Click on the category that interests you to learn more about those positions and to download the appropriate application form (when applicable.) Please print the appropriate application form in one-sided format and fill it out before you arrive! By doing so, you will save the hiring managers time, and you will also be placed ahead of applicants who haven’t completed an application in advance.
Read all information carefully. Each of the following pages contains DIFFERENT information about interview or audition dates, paperwork and required skills based on the specific position. Positions will be filled on a first come, first-considered basis – meaning that you have a better chance of getting a role by attending an earlier audition/interview or submitting your materials early. Auditions and interviews run RAIN OR SHINE.
Acting & Specialty Performer Roles
Applicants must audition for acting, dancing, singing, circus performer and specialty performer roles. Performers entertain and scare visitors as they explore Halloween Nights. Performers are required to wear a costume and special FX makeup, which will be provided by penitentiary. 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 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. Most of these jobs do not require wearing a costume or makeup, just a uniform. Learn More >
Education Team
Applicants must 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
It takes a team of nearly 20 makeup artists about three hours to prepare a cast of more than 200 performers each evening. This is a fast-paced, fun environment, and the timing of the makeup team is essential. 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
The Costume & Props Team is made up of talented costumers who dress and aid the cast of 200 performers each evening. 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 >
Guest Support Assistants (ALL POSITIONS FILLED)
Guest Support Assistants assist the Senior Manager, Group Sales and Events with administrative and customer service duties. This is a seasonal position from September to November. Weekend availability is a must. All responsibilities are via phone and email. This is an office based role. All Guest Support Assistant positions have been filled for the 2023 season. Learn More >
Tech Crew (ALL POSITIONS FILLED)
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. All Tech Crew positions have been filled for the 2023 season. 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.