Motor City Cruise, Mascot (Nitro)

Are you looking to be part of a high-performing team of go-getters who make a difference both on and off the court? Join the Detroit Pistons as we harness the power of basketball to unite our city, elevate our fans, and drive lasting community impact.

As the Motor City Cruise Mascot Performer, you will be considered a world-class performer and ambassador for the Motor City Cruise at all home games, team events and outside appearances as the official mascot “NITRO.” The ideal candidate possesses excellent non-verbal interpersonal skills, is athletically and physically fit, and has a creative and humorous personality that translates through NITRO. 

This position is a part time role starting in Summer 2026 and ending at the end of June 2027.

What You'll be Doing:

• Overseeing aspects of the Nitro mascot program, including performances as Nitro at all Cruise home games and select community and Cruise events.
• Assist with game day elements including but not limited to: engaging with fans of all ages, crowd interaction, on-court contests, T-Shirt tosses, etc.
• Brainstorm and implement mascot skits to be performed at Cruise home games. 
• Maintain and clean all assets including costumes, props, and other items used by Nitro.
• Work with Manager, Game Ops to schedule performer replacement if unavailable for game or event
• Assist Manager, Game Ops with ordering of props, costumes, and other needs
• Work closely with Community and Social Responsibility team to implement Nitro into community events and programming
• Collaborate with Motor City Cruise Social Media coordinator to film videos and create Nitro content
• Collaborate closely with Pistons Hooper mascot performer to learn the dynamics of mascoting – techniques, brand strategy, and skills needed to be successful in a professional sports setting
• Opportunity to shadow Hooper at select Pistons games, and potentially serve as Hooper backup when requested

• Previous mascot experience required; (Collegiate, Minor League. or Professional mascot experience preferred).
• Dance experience and other performance-related skills (tumbling, belaying, dancing, stilt-walking, etc.) preferred.
• Ability to excite, motivate, and entertain a crowd – an outstanding sense of humor is a must.
• Available for both in-office work as well as community engagements, game days, and external Cruise events
• Mascot costume is designed to fit individuals between approximately 5’5”–5’10”
• Ability to maintain skills and physical fitness through regular usage of such activities, including the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Availability and willingness to work extended hours, including nights, weekends, and some holidays

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

We are dedicated to ensuring equal access throughout the employment process. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable participation in the application and interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. If you require an accommodation, please contact us to request assistance.