Student - Mascot Actor/Handler-1

Job Description Summary
On Oct. 5, 2021, Soka University Athletics announced the creation of its first-ever Lion mascot. In the following months, the Soka student body selected the mascot design and “Leo” as the mascot’s name.
The mascot program requires two mascot actors. These student workers will both carry the mascot responsibility. Each appearance will be scheduled out in advance and the two mascot actors will switch off between mascot actor and mascot handler. Both of these student workers will report to the Soka Athletics Department.

Job Description

MASCOT ACTOR

The mascot actor represents Soka University of America and Soka Athletics and provides entertainment and audience engagement at college, athletic, and community events.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Display enthusiasm and high energy at all times.
• Meet and greet fans and attendees.
• Develop and execute skits to be performed at events, on the field or in dugouts to enhance the event or game-day experience for students and fans.
• Preserve the identity of the mascot without deviating from established character (i.e., body language/mannerisms, attitude, fan interaction, team/College representation).
• Work effectively in a team environment.
• Take care of costume and props when in your possession.
• Attend training events (details pending from Mascot Training subcommittee).
• Understand and perform a series of nonverbal signals to be used with mascot handler during appearances (e.g., break signal, distress signal, back away signal).
• Comply with Soka University Student Code of Conduct and Soka Athletics Student-Athlete Code of Conduct at all times.

REQUIREMENTS

• Able to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends.
• Good physical condition, able to lift 30+ pounds.
• Due to costume size, must be between 5’7” and 6’ in height.
• Pass background check and drug screening.
• Currently enrolled at Soka University of America.
• Dance or other performance experience preferred.
• Previous mascot actor experience a plus.
• Applicants must pass a physical examination and complete the following forms:
• Insurance Questionnaire
• Medical Release and Authorization
• College-Mascot Agreement
• Sports Physical

MASCOT AUDITIONS

Applicants who meet all mascot actor requirements are selected to participate in auditions. A panel of Soka Athletics staff and Mascot Committee members serve as judges. Auditions may include improvisation, dancing and interview questions.

MASCOT HANDLER

The mascot handler is an ambassador and representative of Soka University who accompanies the mascot to and from its performance area or venue and manages crowd interaction during the event.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Accompany mascot at all times, always within arm’s reach.
• Answer questions and provide other responses for mascot as needed (Leo does not speak).
• Manage crowd interaction (e.g., assist fans with taking pictures and obtaining autographs, answer questions about the mascot) 4
• Act as mascot actor’s "eyes and ears" in regards to game progression, in-game scheduling, location visits, fan requests and potential hazards.
• Carry mascot supplies (e.g., autograph cards, T-shirts, signs).
• Take photos for Soka Athletics social media.
• Transport costume to and from appearances.
• Assist mascot actor with various duties that may arise.
• Assist actor with costume as needed.
• Be prepared to substitute as the scheduled mascot actor or arrange for a substitute.
• Attend training events (details pending from Mascot Training subcommittee).
• Understand and perform a series of nonverbal signals to be used with mascot actor during appearances (e.g., break signal, distress signal, back away signal).
• Comply with Soka University of America Employee Code of Conduct at all times.

REQUIREMENTS

• Currently employed at Soka University of America.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Able to relate to fans of all ages and backgrounds, especially children.
• Punctual, with good time management skills.
• Basic Soka Athletics knowledge and campus familiarity.
• Able to accompany the mascot for extended periods of time (up to one hour).
• Clean and well groomed, with appropriate dress (Soka Athletics shirt provided).
• Access to a cellphone when accompanying, traveling with and spotting mascot actor.

This position is approved to be a 3rd job to two other on campus jobs.

Weekly Hours

1

Pay Range

16.90

The base salary range for this position is listed above. Compensation ranges are based on several factors including job function, experience and geographic location. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate experience and expertise, and may vary from the range listed here.