Position Title: Pumpkin Carver (review Skilled/Master Carver position here)
Event Overview
The Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium will be hosting a brand new event. Thousands of artistically carved pumpkins will glow in the night during the walk-through Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza. These gourd-geous works of art will feature beloved Zoo animals and familiar characters from the worlds of entertainment, science, fantasy, pop culture, sports, and more, presented with sound, light, and other special effects. This family friendly event is the perfect combination of nighttime fun, the spirit of autumn, and artistry. Thousands of pumpkins will illuminate The Islands and Jungle Odyssey in a spectacle unlike anything you’ve ever seen, including differently themed areas with a Pittsburgh connection!
The Jack O’Lantern Extravaganza will open to the public on Thursday, October 3 and run nightly through Sunday, November 3.
Position Overview
Pumpkin carvers will carve pumpkins (both real and artificial) according to a design plan managed by the Zoo Master Carver and event team. There will be an estimated (2100) artificial and (900) real pumpkins that will need to be carved with various designs.
Work on the artificial pumpkins is scheduled to begin on August 1 with an anticipated completion date of September 10. Real pumpkins will be carved closer to the event start date and carving will continue throughout the duration of the event to ensure that real pumpkins are fresh while on display.
Hours are onsite, but flexible during the course of the day in four hour minimum shifts.
Responsibilities & Requirements
Scoop and carve real pumpkins (templates will be provided) based on the quantity needed to meet exhibit requirements.
Carve artificial pumpkins (templates will be provided) according to plan and quantities needed to meet the exhibit requirements.
Artistic skills are preferred for the position.
Prior pumpkin/ice/wood carving skills are preferred but not required for the position.
Comfort in handling and safe practices in working with manual and electrical tools.
Reliable to show for scheduled shifts and complete work assignments within reasonable timeframe.
Pay Range
$14-$18 per hour based on experience and creative abilities.
Examples
If you have photos of any previous work, they can be sent to [email protected] for review or submitted on our application form below.