Closing Date
11th November 2026
Department
Events, Christmas – The Santa Experience & Enchanted Trail of Light
Location
Colchester Zoological Society
Employment Type
Temporary – multiple vacancies available
Salary
To be discussed at interview
You MUST be 18 years or over and must have the right to work in the UK to apply for a role within our Santa Experience Team. Any applicants under the age of 18 years will not be considered. If you are interested in applying for a role within our Santa Experience Team, please complete the Application Form below and send to events@colchesterzoo.org
Introduction to the Event
Christmas is a magical time of the year for family and friends to celebrate the festivities. It has become tradition for many guests to visit at this special time of year to make magical memories to treasure.
A key part of this experience is the main man in red of course, he sees thousands of children over the festive period and spreads that Christmas cheer. Mrs Claus also plays an incredibly important role, ensuring that each and every child receives a warm welcome and even a tasty treat!
Are you warm and jolly with a great Ho Ho Ho? Could you see yourself helping Santa and running a Grotto full of Elves? Then this role could be for you!
Dates:
The Santa Experience: 21st, 22nd, 28th & 29th November, 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, & 19th – 24th December 2026
The Santa Experience Member Evenings: 10th, 15th & 17th December 2026
Enchanted Trail of Light: 27th, 28th & 29th November, 4th, 5th, 6th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 23rd, 27th & 28th December 2026
Working hours: Mornings: 8:00am – 1:00pm / Afternoons: 12:00pm – 5:00pm (The Santa Experience), 4:30pm – 9:00pm (Enchanted Trail of Light), 4:30pm – 9:00pm (The Santa Experience Member Evenings).
Role Responsibilities & Essential Requirements
- You may be subject to a CRB check for this position
- Excellent communication and customer care skills.
- Confident and enthusiastic.
- Good time management.
- Greeting children and families.
- Giving out presents to children.
- Health and safety must be adhered to.
- Previous Christmas experience not required.
- All successful applicants will be required to complete an induction day to see how our Santa Experience operates.
Desirable Requirements
- Previous experience working with children.
- Experience in acting and entertainment.
Working Hours
Mornings: 8:00am – 1:00pm / Afternoons: 12:00pm – 5:00pm (The Santa Experience), 4:30pm – 9:00pm (Enchanted Trail of Light), 4:30pm – 9:00pm (The Santa Experience Member Evenings).
Salary
To be discussed over interview.
Working Environment
- Colchester Zoological Society is a non-smoking environment and smoking is not permitted by members of staff whilst on the premises.
- Colchester Zoological Society is an equal opportunities employer.
Benefits
- Santa training will be provided.
- Costumes will be provided.
- We can also provide references after the event for future job applications if requested.
- Free onsite parking.
