Character Lead - The Chimney Lift

Rate of Pay: £14.75/h

Location: Battersea Power Station

Hours: Part-time / Zero-hours contract                                                                           

Something exciting is happening at The Chimney Lift. We are introducing a dedicated character programme designed to create memorable, family-friendly interactions and bring the attraction's personality to life. As Character Lead, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day tasks, combining live performance with team leadership, costume care and close coordination with the Duty Manager.

You will normally work alongside one Character Performer. While the Character Performer is responsible for bringing Charlie the Chimney to life inside the costume, you will act as the dedicated Character Lead and Character Escort. You will support the performer throughout the day, manage guest interactions and photo opportunities, monitor performer welfare, and ensure every appearance is delivered safely, consistently and in line with the character standards. 

We're looking for someone who is

• A confident and engaging performer with experience working in costume, live entertainment, attractions, theatre or family events.
• A natural leader who can set clear expectations, coach colleagues and maintain consistent performance standards.
• Highly aware of performer welfare, guest safety and the practical requirements of costume-based performance.
• Calm, organised and able to respond professionally to operational changes, busy periods and unexpected situations.
• Friendly, collaborative and comfortable working closely with Duty Managers, Guest Experience and Guest Operations teams.
• This role requires the ability to stand and remain mobile for prolonged periods as part of the day-to-day responsibilities.

A Day in the Life of a Character Lead

As a Character Lead, you'll be responsible for ensuring every character appearance is delivered safely, professionally and to an exceptional standard. From preparing performers before the attraction opens to supporting them throughout the day, you'll be the key link between the Character Team and the wider operations team.

Start of Your Shift

• Meet with the Duty Manager to review the day's schedule, including character appearances, events, breaks and any operational priorities.
• Carry out pre-use checks on costumes, accessories and props, ensuring everything is clean, presentable and ready for use.
• Brief Character Performers on the day's plan, performance expectations, guest interactions and any operational updates.
• Ensure performers are fully prepared, comfortable and ready for their first appearance.

Throughout the Day

• Escort and support performers during scheduled appearances, ensuring they arrive on time while adapting timings where necessary to support attraction operations and guest flow.
• Stay close enough to guide performers, manage the performance space and identify any potential hazards or guest concerns.
• Provide timely, constructive feedback and raise any recurring performance or conduct concerns with the Duty Manager.
• Encourage open communication so performers feel comfortable raising any fatigue, discomfort or costume-related concerns.

Looking After the Team

• Monitor performer welfare throughout the day, ensuring they remain hydrated, comfortable and receive appropriate breaks, particularly during warm weather or extended appearances.
• Make decisions to pause, stop or adapt performances if safety, welfare, costume condition or operational circumstances require it, keeping the Duty Manager informed.
• Report any costume damage, faults, maintenance requirements, incidents or near misses promptly.

End of Your Shift

• Complete post-use costume and prop checks, ensuring everything is cleaned, stored correctly and ready for the next shift.
• Report any operational updates, performer welfare concerns, costume issues or incidents to the Duty Manager.
• Debrief on the day's successes, challenges and opportunities to continuously improve the guest experience.

Requirements

• Previous professional or semi-professional experience in character performance, mascot work, theatre, dance, live entertainment, visitor attractions or family events.

• Previous experience leading, supervising, coaching or training colleagues is strongly preferred.
• Excellent spoken communication when acting as Character Escort or liaising with guests and colleagues.
• Reliable and flexible
• Must be eligible to work in the UK.

Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

• Character or mascot performance for a major attraction, theme park, theatre company, entertainment venue, family brand or live event.

• Comfortable working alongside costumed performers and familiar with the operational requirements of mascot-based experiences.
• Knowledge of performer warm-ups, costume handling, manual handling and heat-related welfare considerations.
• Experience managing guest queues and photo opportunities while maintaining a safe, engaging and organised environment.

Benefits

• Flexitime options
• Staff discounts across Battersea Power Station
• Free or discounted food during shifts
• Company events and social activities
• Opportunity to contribute creatively to a new character programme