Youth Staff
San Jose, CA, USA
23 Jul 2026
Pre-registration Invited Call
Application & Audition

Casting: Carnival Entertainment is seeking energetic and fun personalities to join the Youth Staff teams aboard Carnival. As a Youth Staff team member, you're responsible for giving kids and teens the best vacation experience possible. The youth program works with kids ages 6 months - 17 with dedicated areas for each age group. And that's not all, you'll not only be best friends with Dr. Seuss' Cat In The Hat, Thing 1 and Thing 2, but you'll also be bringing bears to life in the Build-A-Bear Workshop At Sea, and so much more. Interested in having the most fun while creating great experiences for our younger guests? Then this is the job for you! Submit your application now.


Audition Details: Ideal candidate for all youth positions must have at least 2 years professional experience working directly with kids, and a lot of energy. Once we review your application, we will confirm your attendance at this onsite audition via email; you'll also receive location and time details (Please read the job description for more requirements.)


Please note: Carnival does not cover travel or lodging fees for audition attendees, please apply only if you're within driving distance.

Select Position

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure the safety and active supervision of all children participating in activities.
  • Provides friendly, caring, and positive interaction with teens and their parents, addresses parent inquiries and concerns.
  • Follow the policies and procedures/mandates in the Youth Programs Operations - Policies & Procedures/ Youth & Family RFF Programming Standards.
  • Follow all Public Health, Environmental and HESS procedures (such as training, drills, safety briefings, port manning, logs, etc.).
  • Be well informed and actively participate in assigned activities including, but not limited to, any activities outlined in Staff and Youth Activity Schedules (such as Kid’s Meals, Night Owls, Fun Guide, Sail Away, Embark, Debark, meetings, performances, character appearances, holiday events, family activities, partnerships: Build-A-Bear Workshop, Dr. Seuss, Zumbini, etc.); there may be times that Camp Staff assists in the Teen Clubs and/or cover a Teen Leader role if necessary.
  • Work during the specific times listed on your schedule, arriving with enough time to prepare for the shift. Comply with schedule rotation, while following all Fun Time & MLC procedures.
  • Maintain children’s hygiene by consistently tending to their needs (diapering, washing hands, wiping noses, etc.).
  • Ensure all youth facilities and assigned areas remain in good condition and kept organized and cleaned at the end of each shift.
  • Inform Youth Programs Director of all incidents and fill out Notification Reports, if needed. Communicate with adult / guardians regarding their child's behavior and observations.
  • Manage Camp supply use and condition, maintain accurate inventory, and report any immediate or order requests to the Youth Programs Supervisor/ Youth Programs Director.
  • Participate in all required training sessions and meetings.
  • Successfully complete the 3-month training program or return training (2-week) led by the Youth Programs Supervisor/ Youth Programs Director.
  • Ensure the Animators/Characters have chaperones, and their safety is a priority.
  • In the event of an Animator's absence (sick leave or off-ship), the Youth Team will provide coverage.
  • Ensure SAIL actions implemented daily.
  • Abide by the rules and regulations set forth by Carnival Handbook and/or the ship’s command.
  • Demonstrate commitment to Carnival Values by providing excellent hospitality to all guests.
  • Follow the uniform policy, maintain the Carnival Look, and always practice good hygiene.
  • Must be willing and able to perform CPR and First Aid as needed.
  • Ensure all the documents needed up to date and valid for the entire duration of the contract (such as Accurate Background Check, Fingerprints, CPR, First Aid, and other applicable and required certifications).
  • Levelling & Requirements – Reference Youth Programs Levelling Checklist for full responsibilities.
  • All other duties deemed necessary by the Youth Programs Supervisor, Youth Programs Director, Entertainment Director, Hotel Director, or Shoreside Management.


QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must have and present one of the following or anything similar to the items listed below plus minimum 2 year of experience in related fields:
  • Must be 21 years of age.
  • Minimum 2 years of experience working with kids.
  • Care Certification.
  • Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Education/Recreation/Park/Tourism preferred.
  • Psychology Degree.
  • Special Needs Worker.
  • Child & Youth Worker Diploma.
  • Early Childhood Education Diploma.
  • Educational Assistant Diploma.


EXPERIENCE:

  • Must have at least 2 years of experience working in any of the following fields or programs:
  • Professionally working with kids/youth.
  • Creative background (artistic.)
  • YMCA or other after school programs.
  • Leading large groups of children (Sports Coach/Camp Counselor.)
  • Professional child care centers.


ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be willing to work with children from ages 2 to 11 years old and children with special needs as well as children under the age of 2 years.
  • Must be able to speak proficient English (speak, read and write fluently.)
  • Must be outgoing and able to lead large groups of children.
  • Must have hospitality skills & be focused on guest services.
  • Submit CPR and First Aid Certificate.
  • Must be willing to perform CPR and First Aid as needed.