What are the responsibilities and job description for the Mascot Performer position at Knoxville Smokies?
ABOUT THE SMOKIES: The Knoxville Smokies make their debut in their new state-of-the-art stadium, Covenant Health Park, in 2025. Now located in historic Downtown Knoxville, the Smokies remain the proud Double-A Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. The Knoxville Smokies are operated by Boyd Sports, LLC.
DESCRIPTION: The Mascot Performer will be a talented and energetic performer, ready to lead the growing spectacle and show of the Knoxville Smokies. The ideal candidate will embrace the organization's community-first mindset and lead the team in fulfilling numerous appearance requests throughout East Tennessee, in addition to making a significant contribution to elevating the in-game experience at Smokies games. This includes, and is not limited to, pre-game performances, ballpark experiences, in-game contests, and in-game dance routines. The position assists with all aspects of our game day and outside events. Candidate can expect to be in costume throughout the ballpark during games. The position will allow the individual to gain valuable experience with a professional organization for their future in the sports, entertainment and promotions industries. The Mascot Performer will support the overall efforts to build the Knoxville Smokies brand and promote its work, programming and initiatives through hands-on experiences.
All qualified applicants may be required to participate in an “invitation only” audition to be held by the Smokies on a date to be determined.
All qualified applicants may be required to participate in an “invitation only” audition to be held by the Smokies on a date to be determined.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Serve as a lead mascot performer in costume for all 69 Smokies home games and outside events
- Serve as mascot performer in costume for community events in the area like ribbon cuttings, tabling events, parades, etc.
- Ability to interact with and entertain a crowd of all ages
- Assist in executing promotional theme nights and social media posts
- Create and develop mascot’s personality and mannerisms
- Always be creative and flaunt an energetic personality, with the ability to motivate others
- Must be able to maintain and react to a flexible schedule
- Assist ‘Rally Crew’ Promotion Team in set-up and break down of on-field contests and promotions
- Participate in creating new and exciting routines and traditions that appeal to family values and coincide with the club’s marketing themes
- Execute ‘Proof of Performance’ sponsorship elements, in conjunction with promotions staff
- Other duties as assigned
REQUIREMENTS:
- Must be comfortable to work in a fast paced, high pressure environment
- Keep a professional demeanor with the ability to interact with fans, staff members, players, coaches and front office executives
- Candidates must be creative, enthusiastic, willing to learn, and self-driven
- Demonstrate the ability to handle numerous projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
- Willingness to be trained, coached, and critiqued to perform “in character”
- Must be physically able to perform under extreme temperature conditions
- Willing and able to work all 69 Smokies home games, flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
- Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation
- Previous experience as a character, mascot or interactive entertainer, with skills in dancing, juggling, tumbling, gymnastics or acrobatics a plus
- Candidates may submit a reel or demo, exhibiting their previous experience in a mascot costume for live events, with corresponding resume and cover letter to be considered
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.
