Animal Impersonator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of entertainment, the demand for animal impersonators has never been higher.

As our fascination with nature and wildlife deepens, so does the need for gifted performers who can mimic, embody and honor our animal kingdom through their art.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an animal impersonator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this unique profession,
• A casting director drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply captivated by the intricate craft of animal impersonation,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable animal impersonator job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or talent recruitment platforms.

Let’s dive right in.

Animal Impersonator Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Impersonators replicate the behavior, sounds, and movements of specific animals for entertainment, educational, or therapeutic purposes.

They may work in theme parks, theater productions, movies, or television shows, or they may provide services for parties, special events, or therapeutic settings.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Studying and understanding the behavioral patterns, movements, and sounds of the animal they are impersonating
• Using costumes, makeup, and props to accurately portray various animals
• Performing routines or skits that depict the behavior and life of the animal
• Engaging audiences in interactive performances or presentations
• Working closely with directors and other performers to ensure accurate and believable performances
• Practicing and improving their impersonations based on constructive feedback
• Participating in rehearsals and attending costume fittings
• Ensuring the safety of themselves and others during performances, especially when portraying wild or dangerous animals
• Maintaining the cleanliness and condition of their costumes and props
• Helping to educate audiences about the animals they are impersonating, particularly in educational or therapeutic settings

 

Animal Impersonator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a talented and creative Animal Impersonator to captivate and entertain our audiences.

In this role, you will be required to study, understand and mimic animal behaviours, sounds, and movements convincingly.

You will work closely with our creative team for performances in various venues such as theater productions, television shows, films, and theme parks.

The ideal candidate is an imaginative individual who is passionate about animals, has excellent physical agility, and possesses strong acting skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Study and replicate animal behaviours, movements, and sounds accurately
• Perform in various venues such as theater productions, television shows, films, and theme parks
• Work closely with the creative team to bring characters to life
• Participate in rehearsals and performances as scheduled
• Contribute to script development and character conceptualization
• Maintain excellent physical condition to perform rigorous routines
• Engage with audiences during performances
• Follow all safety guidelines during performances

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an actor, performer or animal impersonator
• Experience in physical theater, dance, or a related field
• Ability to mimic animal sounds and movements convincingly
• Excellent physical fitness and agility
• Strong improvisation skills
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays
• High school diploma or equivalent; a degree in Theater Arts or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Impersonator
• Work Environment: Varied locations including theater productions, television studios, film sets, and theme parks. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director or Stage Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies depending on the project and the impersonator’s experience.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a video demonstrating your ability to impersonate an animal to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal Impersonator Do?

Animal Impersonators are performers who imitate the physical and behavioral characteristics of various animals.

This involves studying the movements, sounds, habits, and traits of animals in order to depict them convincingly.

They are often hired for entertainment purposes at events such as parties, festivals, or carnivals.

Some Animal Impersonators also work in theater productions, movies, and television shows, where their skills can contribute to storytelling and character creation.

Animal Impersonators may use costumes, props, and makeup to enhance their impersonations, transforming themselves visually into the animals they are portraying.

In some cases, they may use their skills for educational purposes, such as at zoos, wildlife parks, or schools, where they can help raise awareness about different animal species, their behaviors, and their habitats.

Improvisation and creativity play a big role in this profession, as every performance may require a different approach depending on the animal being impersonated and the context in which the impersonation is taking place.

Animal Impersonators must also be able to interact with audiences, often involving them in their performances to create a more engaging and entertaining experience.

In addition to their performances, Animal Impersonators might also be responsible for maintaining their costumes and props, as well as continually learning about new animals to expand their repertoire.

 

Animal Impersonator Qualifications and Skills

An animal impersonator should possess a unique set of skills and qualifications to effectively execute the role, such as:

• Artistic talent and creativity to impersonate a variety of animals in a convincing manner.
• Physical fitness and stamina to perform various animal movements and sounds for extended periods of time.
• Observation skills to study and mimic the movements, sounds, and behavior of different animals accurately.
• Theatrical skills to engage and entertain audiences with their performances.
• Communication skills to interact with clients or directors and understand their requirements and expectations.
• Flexibility to adapt to different roles, environments, and scenarios.
• Problem-solving skills to overcome unexpected challenges during performances.
• Professionalism and punctuality to respect the schedules and rules of different venues and events.
• Experience or training in acting, dance, or other performing arts may be beneficial.

 

Animal Impersonator Experience Requirements

Animal impersonators often start their journey with a strong interest in performing arts, specifically theater and improvisation.

Some may have formal training in drama, theater studies or physical theatre, while others may gain their initial experience through school plays, community theater, or improv groups.

Those just starting out may gain their experience by acting in various roles that involve animal impersonation in small productions or theater workshops.

This provides an excellent foundation for understanding animal behavior and movements.

Those with 1 to 3 years of experience have generally honed their skills and techniques further, through roles in larger productions or through specialized workshops and training in physical theatre or animal impersonation.

They may also have experience working with puppetry or animatronics, as these can often form part of an animal impersonator’s role.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are usually well versed in different animal behaviors and movements, and may have experience performing in various mediums such as theater, television, or film.

They may have developed a specialization in certain types of animals or specific performance techniques.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have leadership or teaching experience, having led workshops or coached others in the art of animal impersonation.

These candidates may be ready for roles such as Director or Choreographer in productions involving animal characters.

 

Animal Impersonator Education and Training Requirements

While there are no strict educational requirements to become an Animal Impersonator, most professionals in this field have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

An aspiring Animal Impersonator may benefit from attending classes or workshops in acting, improv, and physical comedy as these skills are integral to the role.

Some may also choose to attend schools or programs specifically focused on mime or physical theater where they can learn techniques to physically embody different characters, including animals.

In addition to formal education, hands-on experience is crucial in this profession.

Volunteering or working in zoos, animal shelters, or nature reserves can offer valuable insights into animal behavior and movements.

Many Animal Impersonators also take voice lessons to mimic animal sounds and noises accurately.

There is no specific certification required to be an Animal Impersonator, but joining professional organizations can provide networking opportunities and resources that can support their career.

Continuing education and training can be beneficial, as the role demands constant creativity and new ways to impersonate various animal species.

This could include studying animal documentaries, attending workshops, or even visiting different habitats to observe animals in their natural environments.

 

Animal Impersonator Salary Expectations

An Animal Impersonator is likely to earn an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

However, the earnings can greatly vary based on the impersonator’s experience, popularity, the complexity of the roles they undertake, and the platform they perform on, such as film, television, or stage.

 

Animal Impersonator Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Impersonator need?

Animal Impersonators need exceptional observation and impersonation skills to study and mimic animal behaviors, movements, and sounds accurately.

They should have physical fitness and flexibility to perform various animal stances and movements.

Good communication skills are also important for understanding client’s requirements and delivering performances accordingly.

 

Do Animal Impersonators need a degree?

Animal Impersonators do not necessarily need a degree, but a background in drama, performing arts, or related fields can be beneficial.

Some Animal Impersonators may also study animal behavior, zoology, or related subjects to gain a more in-depth understanding of the animals they impersonate.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Impersonator resume?

An Animal Impersonator’s resume should highlight their experience in performing arts, including any specialized training or workshops they’ve attended.

It should list the variety of animals they can impersonate and any notable performances or gigs.

Evidence of physical fitness, agility, and endurance may also be an asset.

If they have any experience or knowledge about animal behavior or zoology, it should be mentioned as well.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Impersonator?

A good Animal Impersonator has a deep passion for animals and performing arts.

They should be creative, adaptable, and able to improvise during performances.

Physical stamina and agility are crucial, as impersonating animals can be physically demanding.

They should also be able to work well under pressure and maintain character despite distractions or unexpected situations.

 

Is it difficult to hire Animal Impersonators?

Hiring Animal Impersonators can be challenging due to the unique nature of the job.

The candidate should not only be physically fit and creative but also have a deep understanding of the animal behaviors they are impersonating.

They must be able to adapt to different performance settings and audience types, making this a very specific role to fill.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a sneak peek into the fascinating world of an animal impersonator.

And guess what?

It’s not just about mimicking animal sounds and behaviors.

It’s about immersing oneself into the animal kingdom and captivating audiences, one performance at a time.

With our comprehensive animal impersonator job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to embark on this exciting journey.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting accurate job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every performance is a part of the broader spectrum of entertainment.

Let’s captivate the world. Together.

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