CP Job Descriptions Thread

[graygables]

If you have done a CP, please post your job description, what heading you were under, and what some of your responsibilities were. I'm sure lots of people would like to know what each job entails before making their preference selections.

Thanks for helping us out!

[Joanna71985]

If you have done a CP, please post your job description, what heading you were under, and what some of your responsibilities were. I'm sure lots of people would like to know what each job entails before making their preference selections.

Thanks for helping us out!

1. Merchandise
I mostly worked in Fantasyland (though I also did 2 weeks in Liberty Square and 2 weeks in Adventureland). I just about always closed. So my hours were usually something like 3-5pm until close (which could be something like 10 pm up until 3am- EMH). For merchandise, I usually worked the register or worked the floor assisting guests. But I also stocked once in awhile.

2. Character Attendant
For this role, I worked everywhere. I worked in all 4 parks, though mostly at MK. This has been, by far, my most favorite role. I loved working with the characters. What you do is assist the character(s), keep the line orderly, answer any questions guests have, help take pictures for guests if they want, so on. There are many places you can work, including meets, shows, dining, so on.

3. Custodial
I worked in Epcot WS. I loved my location. This role had 2 different types of things: either restrooms (which was just cleaning and stocking the restrooms) or streets (which was just cleaning the streets and changing the garbage cans). It wasn't that bad, really. You have a lot of independance in this role.

[csaribay]

Full Service Food and Beverage
Cross-U Resorts Orientation Facilitator
'Ohana Feast / Disney's Polynesian Resort


As a full service dining host, it was my primary responsibility (initially) to greet guests coming to the location, check them in for their reservations, accept walk-in parties and handle any issues that our guest would have at this stage of service. I would also make reservations for both my location and other Disney restaurants. I also seated guests, while delivering a moderate spiel. Later on in my program, I was mostly alternating between being an assignor (managing the computer-based table assignment software) and a food & beverage general teller (managing the money for food and beverage locations at the Polynesian). Ohana is really busy, but a lot of fun.
As a Cross-U facilitator, I did the resort-level orientations (once every other week), essentially outlining local guest service customs, expectations and policies, and a tour of our property. I auditioned for this a couple months after I arrived, and it was a great experience!

Had a blast!

[graygables]

Has anyone done the Travel Planner role? Can you share what's involved?

[shastatikipunch]

1. Merchandise
I mostly worked in Fantasyland (though I also did 2 weeks in Liberty Square and 2 weeks in Adventureland). I just about always closed. So my hours were usually something like 3-5pm until close (which could be something like 10 pm up until 3am- EMH). For merchandise, I usually worked the register or worked the floor assisting guests. But I also stocked once in awhile.


Joanna, do they have you "sell" merchandise to people, as in influence their sales. Or do you just assist customers with finding things? I'd really like to know, cause if it's just assistance then it's a definite possibility I'll put merchandise down on my checklist come August.

[Joanna71985]

Joanna, do they have you "sell" merchandise to people, as in influence their sales. Or do you just assist customers with finding things? I'd really like to know, cause if it's just assistance then it's a definite possibility I'll put merchandise down on my checklist come August.

It's both. But I mostly just assisted with finding things on the floor.

[uptown_girl44]

Joanna, do they have you "sell" merchandise to people, as in influence their sales. Or do you just assist customers with finding things? I'd really like to know, cause if it's just assistance then it's a definite possibility I'll put merchandise down on my checklist come August.


I did merchandise in fall of 07 and our managers wanted us to make sure every guest spent a minium of $50. They had certain cast members that spent their shift walking around talking people into buying more stuff. From what Joanna says it sound like she worked in smaller stores so that might have a little to do with our differances in answers.

[tinyt396]

I worked in Toontown merchandise and did not have to try to get people to buy merchandise. Our managers really wanted us to make memories with people. We helped guests if they needed to find something but we were NEVER told to persuade guests to buy anything.

[Joanna71985]

I did merchandise in fall of 07 and our managers wanted us to make sure every guest spent a minium of $50. They had certain cast members that spent their shift walking around talking people into buying more stuff. From what Joanna says it sound like she worked in smaller stores so that might have a little to do with our differances in answers.

I was in Fantasyland.

[shastatikipunch]

Yeah, I might still put merchandise down. But I really want to avoid selling stuff. I'm amazing at doing it, I'm just kinda burnt out from it. But if it's the only way in I'll do it.

[grinningghost]

My DD is doing the CP now. She is doing Full Service Dining at the Captain's Grille at the Yacht Club. In addition to hostessing, she is also doing Private Dining, which basically has her taking phone orders for room service. She's enjoying it. I can't give you any more details than that, I can only tell you what she's told me.;)

[catkel3299]

As for my work experience, I worked at Disney's Ft. wilderness Resort and Campground. It was a unique experience to say the least. The people there are amazing. My managers, leaders, and fellow Cast Members were always willing to help me out.

The hours seemed pretty crazy at first, but after a few weeks I settled into a routine. I was scheduled about 30-35 hours per week; usually 4 days per week, each shift was about 7.5-8.5 hours. Most days I started work between 8 and 10am and finished between 4 and 6pm. And one day a week I worked late, usually starting between 2 and 4pm and ending between 10pm and 12am. I had 2 breaks each shift of 30 minutes each. The first break usually under 3 hours after I started and the second break about 2 hours before I banked out.

I was only trained as Front Desk Cashier, but many of my fellow CPs were also trained in luggage, and phones. Some things Luggage does are sorting and delivering Disney's Magical Express luggage, driving guests without cars to their cabin or site after check-in, running errands across WDW, making deliveries to guests, and checking the status of a cabin or campsite.

Cast Members who work a phones shift sit in the phones room and answer guest calls. Whenever a guest calls the front desk, instead of a person on the desk in the lobby picking up, someone in the back office answers the call.

I was a Front Desk Cashier. For my role, I assisted guests with check-in, lost keys, discrepancies in their guest pay folio, directions in and around WDW and local areas, guest messages and mail, faxes, etc. I also assisted Cast Members from other work areas and departments. I accepted deliveries as well as gave information.

Each day I arrived at work and clocked in. I got keys to a bank from the keywatch and took my bank to the bankout room to count the money to make sure it was all there. Then I went to my FSA (Frontline Service Advisor) and asked where to go. He would tell me if I was relieving someone for break or bankout, or if I was opening a new station. I would then go set up and lock my bank up. I logged into the computer and made sure my work area was "show ready" and when I was ready I would begin assisting guests. At the end of the day, usually 30 minutes before I clocked out, I would leave the front desk and bankout. I counted my bank and if I had taken any cash, checks, travelers checks or foreign currency that day, I would set it aside. I would sign out of the computer system and print all of my paperwork. If I had taken cash, checks, travelers checks, or foreign currency I would place it in a deposit bag and drop it in the safe. Then I would lock my bank up and wait for my clock out time.

Training was pretty long, but it gave me the necessary skills to perform my role with confidence. All new Cast Members attend Disney's orientation program called Traditions. For me it was 2 days after I arrived at Disney. It was 4 hour session where you learn the history and scope of the Company and other important topics relevant to all roles (safety, conduct, purpose, sexual harassment, etc.). This is also where you will get your WDW nametag and your White ID (ID card for clocking in and out at work, and most importantly, your admission to the parks!!!). (Don't forget to bring an outfit (business casual) to wear to Traditions which meets the Disney Look guidelines. You will need socks or pantyhose if you wear pants and pantyhose if you wear a skirt. Also, for shoes, if the toe is open, the back must be closed, or if the back is open, the toe must be closed. They won’t let you on the bus to Traditions if you don’t meet these guidelines.)

The day after Traditions, I began what is called First Impressions. It is the classroom training program for Front Desk Cast Members. It started with me going to my work location and getting my costume. I put it one and went to the Front Desk of my resort and shadowed a cashier for about 3 hours. (You will want to invest in a comfortable pair of flats because you will be standing a great deal as a front desk cashier.) After I shadowed, I went to Disney University (located behind the Magic Kingdom where Traditions is held) where I met with the rest of my First Impressions class. We had introductions, watched a few training videos about dealing with difficult guests, the importance of great guest service, etc., and practiced introducing ourselves to guests (“Howdy! Welcome to Ft. Wilderness. My name is Kelly. How may I assist you?).

The next 5 days were spent in a classroom learning how to use the Disney Property Management System (DPMS). We learned how to locate a reservation, modify a reservation, check in a reservation, take payment on a reservation, cut keys for a reservation, and check out a reservation. We also learned the proper way to handle money and the backout process. As we learned new techniques, we put them into practice in a practice lab set up like a resort front desk.

After the formal training at Disney University, I began my “On the Job” training (*every location is slightly different). Mine began with a complete tour (“comp tour”) of my resort. This was a day long. A front desk Cast Member took me and another CP in a golf cart and showed us the entire campground.

After my comp tour I began my training with my trainer. This was done one-on-one. It lasted 5 days. The first day I watched him do one check-in and I jumped right in and started my first check-in. (But a lot of people just watched for a day or so. It all depends on your comfort level.) I didn’t remember too much from my Disney University training so my trainer mostly talked me through my first couple of check-ins. But I slowly began to get the hang of things. Occasionally, there were situations that I couldn’t handle and my trainer stepped in and took over. Throughout the week he and I sat down and went over areas that I still needed to work on. But by the end of the week, I felt like a semi-pro.

On my first day without my trainer, I began my shift with 4 hours of online training, and ended the shift all by myself on the desk.

I know that was a lot of information to absorb, and I hope I didn’t scare you too much. Just remember, you’re working at Disney. If you have any questions or concerns your leaders and managers are there to help you. And they WANT to help you.

[graygables]

THANK YOU everyone for your responses, I'm sure they are very helpful to those who are trying to decide where they would like to share some magic during their CP!

I'm still gathering info from my DDs, one was on Main Street in the Confectionary, the other was at DTD at Toy, WoD, and BBB, so I'll post what they tell me when I can.

[TizianaL]

Even though I am only 16 years old, it has always been my DREAM to work in a Disney park, and now that I am thinking about it more and more, I wouldn't know what role to put down as my "top 5" choices!! I really want a role that has lots of guest interaction, in the parks themselves, flexible hours and something more "unique" to Disney (if that at all makes any sense.. hehe) Is there a specific role that particularly includes all those aspects?

Thanks!!
-TizianaL

[epfootballcutie04]

Even though I am only 16 years old, it has always been my DREAM to work in a Disney park, and now that I am thinking about it more and more, I wouldn't know what role to put down as my "top 5" choices!! I really want a role that has lots of guest interaction, in the parks themselves, flexible hours and something more "unique" to Disney (if that at all makes any sense.. hehe) Is there a specific role that particularly includes all those aspects?

Thanks!!
-TizianaL

while I haven't done the CP before, I am putting 'Character attendant' on my list. From hearing about it on here, and seeing them in the parks when I visit, I know that they can have a lot of guest interaction, they are in the parks and I think their role is unique to Disney. You may or may not think of this role as 'unique' to you but I like to:) Everytime I've been there, it's the character attendants that do the vocal interacting for the characters. It's them that explain to the children why it is that they don't talk, and they do funny interactions with the characters.

I think it would be a chance of a lifetime to pal around with the characters all day, almost everyday for a while:)

However, I'm not sure what the hours are like. I suppose it depends if the park you're working at has EMH and whatnot. :)

[Joanna71985]

Character attendant (in my opinion) is a great role. I love getting to work with the characters, and work in all 4 parks. Also, the hours are not too bad. The only time you usually work late is if you are assigned to dining, Toontown, Epcot WS (a couple of places are opened later then others), and maybe EMH (if you get it). Other then that, most are morning/afternoon shifts.

[namara87]

My Spring Advantage 06 CP I was Merchandise in Asia, Africa and OOTW in DAK. I was in Africa about 95% of the time, working at Everest only on official opening day and OOTW to stock maybe five times. I LOVED merchandise, I was trained in register, money room and stock, so my schedule was always different and I never got bored. I loved all my managers and they were great at showing their appreciation. I met a group of 10 CP's who worked the area as well and we all became very close, I still talk to the majority of them, and three of us actually went down on our second program together.

My second was Main Street Operations (Parade and Audience Control & Park Greeter) in Fall 2007. This CP was honestly a bit of a challege for me. I was not able to communicate with managers as I would have liked, didn't really get any opportunity to know them that well. I worked about 40 other CP's from all over the world, so at times I kinda felt like I was in high school with all the drama. I did make some great friends though. PAC was my favorite of the two roles within MSO. I loved talking to guests waiting for the parade and playing with the kids in the street...whether it be hookey pokey, hula hoops or the wave. Park Greeter (turnstiles) was honestly a bore in my opinion. Very repetitive..."place your finger on the blue light"..."no sir it is not a fingerprint scanner"....and of course CROSS OVER DENIED....some guests just didn't understand the concept of a hopper.

Overall my second CP was definaltly and eye opener...I did love wearing all the crazy costumes for the PP, MVMCP, and MNSSHP. Whatever you end up doing, have fun.

[Z.Black]

My first CP I was in Attractions/Greeter at Disney Quest. It was really cool, just because I think DQ is so unique in the way it’s handled. We learned how to operate all the rides there (there are 9 of them), and we were also Greeter trained (turnstiles). I’m pretty sure it’s the only place in the parks that train in both, but it made it easy to pick up hours in different parks for a Greeter shift.

Anyway the hours were really good, as DQ doesn’t open until 11:30, so the earliest I ever had to be there was around 10 (if I remember correctly). And the latest it closed was 12, so the latest I’d get out was 1 at the latest. Well… except for the overnight but that was just… an evil night (fun, but evil).

Everyone pretty much knew everyone else there, and we were all friends. The only people we didn’t know well were… well… we knew everyone, the merchandising people, the matinince guys, the people that worked the ticket windows; the people from cirque… pretty much everyone. The managers were really good too, very willing to work with us if they could. There was also a high level of guest interaction; I’ve heard it said that DQ has the highest amount of guest interaction anywhere in the parks, so definitely fun working there.

My second CP will be in Merchandising, and I’m pretty excited for that too!

[KerTggr]

Has anyone done the Travel Planner role? Can you share what's involved?

It has been a while since I was in the CP (actually one of the first to do Vacation Planning @ the Studios). But I can tell you that it was the best job there. I originally worked attractions hostess at RNRC which rocked!!! Got a little tired of some of the questions, but that's the case in any position. Vacation Planning was cool - literally because you had an air conditioned booth all day. When things were slow (late afternoon) we would call each other, put the other on hold, and put on the speaker phone to listen to the Disney hold music. There's a little more politics in VP than attractions (because you are grouped with Guest Relations and closely managed due to the cash flow). But if you are good with money, good with people, know the parks and think you may stay in FL and continue working for the parks, this is the best position because it is a lot of responsibility and potential for growth. It got to the point where if I needed extra cash, I would work my VP shift, then call over to RNRC & F! to see if they needed extra people.

Negative Point: not as much "fun" time in the break rooms usually and early mornings.

HTH!

[Whatalias]

I did custodial in MK. Tommrow land and Main St. It the easy thing ever. walk around sweep, anwser questions. You can(did intel cds came) away with more then other roles. I like it. I appling for anyother program this fall. i want merchandise or custodial again.

[Fantasmic1]

i was a monorail pilot which is under transportation...the first couple of months of the program i worked the monorail platforms and loaded people on and off of the trains, worked the gates, etc. About 2 months into it you start your drive training and if you get through the training and pass the check out then you become a monorail pilot. The check out is very rough and a lot of people fail but i don't konw of any cp's that have failed, its usually just the older cast members. Anyway, once you get through all the training its well worth it as you then have one of the most interesting jobs on property....how many people can say they operate a 7 million dollar train! Good Luck to everyone and have the time of your lives!

[SweaterInJune]

Hi there!

I was assigned to attractions and, as such, was a Safari Guide at Kilimanjaro Safaris for Spring 2007. I knew I wanted a spieling role and was pleased with my placement, despite having never been to DAK, let alone on the Safari.

After all of the general training, and DAKlimation, I began a 2 week KSR attraction training where we learned how the safari is set up (different work locations, emergency exits, backstage areas, etc.), all of the animals and several facts about them, general attraction procedures and protocol, the spiel, radio procedures, as well as how to check-out and drive those big trucks safely.

This job involved a lot of thought, work, and responsibilty, but was truly one of a kind! I typically worked 8-10 hours a day/5 days a week, but the hours varied on occasion and so did the length of my work week. At this attraction, you could work in any of the positions (Guide, Greeter, FP, FP Return, Mergepoint, Gatekeeper, Departure, Departure Assist, Pram, etc.). You could also occasionally get Parade or when opening, a part in the opening festivities. You would be assigned a placement each time you were sent out, though most of the time, you will be a guide. In the beginning you find yourself wanting this position all the time, but as time wears on you seem to be praying everytime for a "land" position...haha.

All in all, working in Harambe was a lot of fun! I made A LOT of friends and I think it was a great job for the CP. There are a lot of positions available and I certainly don't think you'll be disappointed if you get this placement :-) There is always something new or a little bit different and the people were great!

[joepic]

i was a monorail pilot which is under transportation...the first couple of months of the program i worked the monorail platforms and loaded people on and off of the trains, worked the gates, etc. About 2 months into it you start your drive training and if you get through the training and pass the check out then you become a monorail pilot. The check out is very rough and a lot of people fail but i don't konw of any cp's that have failed, its usually just the older cast members. Anyway, once you get through all the training its well worth it as you then have one of the most interesting jobs on property....how many people can say they operate a 7 million dollar train! Good Luck to everyone and have the time of your lives!

Wow, that's exactly what I want to do! Was it hard to get into Transportation?
What did you talk about on your interview??

[Pendragon1515]

Has anybody worked in the costuming dept? lol i have NEVER seen anybody on this board who has already worked in the costuming dept... :(

[Fantasmic1]

Wow, that's exactly what I want to do! Was it hard to get into Transportation?
What did you talk about on your interview??

To be honest, i don't remember much about the interview but i do remember telling them that i wanted transportation....if you tell them specifically that you want to drive the monorail it couldn't hurt. Unfortunately, out of the 5000 cp's each semester, less than 10 get monorails....good luck to you!

[shastatikipunch]

Has anybody worked in the costuming dept? lol i have NEVER seen anybody on this board who has already worked in the costuming dept... :(

The upside Tyler is you could be the first which means you'll be the go to guy for costuming from here on out!!!! :thumbsup2

[epfootballcutie04]

Has anyone worked attractions at pirates?!? I WOULD LOVE THAT!!!!

furthermore, does anyone have pictures of the CM's that work at pirates!?! I would love to see their costumes! I think it would be awesome to dress up as a pirate everyday and get to see capt jack!

[SweaterInJune]

Has anyone worked attractions at pirates?!? I WOULD LOVE THAT!!!!

furthermore, does anyone have pictures of the CM's that work at pirates!?! I would love to see their costumes! I think it would be awesome to dress up as a pirate everyday and get to see capt jack!

My best friend works at Pirates, among other attractions now, but when he was on his CP he worked at Pirates. He loved it, then hated it, then had a love/hate relationship with it...then he hit the point where he finally decided he loved it...and now he's been cross-trained at Jungle Cruise, and Haunted Mansion, too...which he also loves.

We were all jealous of his being a pirate...haha. Do you have any specific questions? I'll see if I can get answers for you.

[epfootballcutie04]

My best friend works at Pirates, among other attractions now, but when he was on his CP he worked at Pirates. He loved it, then hated it, then had a love/hate relationship with it...then he hit the point where he finally decided he loved it...and now he's been cross-trained at Jungle Cruise, and Haunted Mansion, too...which he also loves.

We were all jealous of his being a pirate...haha. Do you have any specific questions? I'll see if I can get answers for you.

Basically, what is thier role... what's the costume like (pic?)... hours... is the guest interaction really good? Just basic information:)

Thanks:)

[Joanna71985]

Has anyone worked attractions at pirates?!? I WOULD LOVE THAT!!!!

furthermore, does anyone have pictures of the CM's that work at pirates!?! I would love to see their costumes! I think it would be awesome to dress up as a pirate everyday and get to see capt jack!

I did merch at Pirates. The costume was sooooo bad. Really thick and heavy. I almost died.

[fall08CP]

I did merch at Pirates. The costume was sooooo bad. Really thick and heavy. I almost died.

Yeah- I was there last month and remember thinking that the costume would suck. Haha. Don't think I took any pics of it though.

[Joanna71985]

Yeah- I was there last month and remember thinking that the costume would suck. Haha. Don't think I took any pics of it though.

Yeah, it was NOT fun. I was sweating like anything.

[tinyt396]

Has anyone worked attractions at pirates?!? I WOULD LOVE THAT!!!!

furthermore, does anyone have pictures of the CM's that work at pirates!?! I would love to see their costumes! I think it would be awesome to dress up as a pirate everyday and get to see capt jack!

I also did Pirates merchandise and the first day I was there I wore the costume and was told I had to get the Adventureland costume because the pirates pants would not fit me in length!! They were very uncomfortable the whole day I had to wear it!!!

[Sorahana]

I currently am on my CP in Attractions at Expedition Everest. I don't like it very much. I love when I get to go out to the greeter position or single rider greeter, etc because I get to interact and talk to guests. When I'm behind the consoles I'm miserable and bored. I work anywhere from 6-14 hrs a day, depends on how staffing is. Attractions is a fun role, just depends on the area you're placed in. A lot of other CPs in my area love it, I just don't particularly like it ^^;.

[epfootballcutie04]

wow, sorry to hear about the pirates costumes! I've never actually been on the ride, as I'm a newly obsessed pirates fan, but i thought i would love it:) If anyone has pictures though, please post them if you can. I would still love to see them. I googled for them, but nothing came up.

And i'm also sorry to hear about everest! That was my choice if i was selected for AK attractions. i LOVE that ride:) But I can only imagine how repetitive and boring it could get doing turnstiles and such!

[Flower4Pwr]

Nevermind!!

[LittleAlice]

I was just wondering,can a cp become a character? Everyone on this thread is talking about every job but that one and I was getting nervous

[csaribay]

I was just wondering,can a cp become a character? Everyone on this thread is talking about every job but that one and I was getting nervous

Yes, CPs are able to be character performers, which includes being "close friends" with fur characters and face characters. This is dependent your height and your performance during a required character audition (offered in a few cities around the US). At WDW, all character performers are eligible for the former, and if they are evaluated and have certain physical characteristics that casting associates find in key with the Disney show, may be able to participate in the latter.

[LittleAlice]

what do you mean by close friends. Will I not be able to be someone like Alice but become more of a parade dancer type character

[csaribay]

what do you mean by close friends. Will I not be able to be someone like Alice but become more of a parade dancer type character

It's an affectionate term used when talking about character performers... I'll PM you what it means. Needless to say, it all has to do with the show and the public's perception..

[LittleAlice]

Thanks for the info but I have one more question. In order to join the cp do you have to take the classes? I read that you didn't have to but I want to make sure. Also I am majoring in english/journalism and minoring in drama/theatre, would I be able to take any type of class for those subjects. Do your majors determine your job?

[csaribay]

Thanks for the info but I have one more question. In order to join the cp do you have to take the classes? I read that you didn't have to but I want to make sure. Also I am majoring in english/journalism and minoring in drama/theatre, would I be able to take any type of class for those subjects. Do your majors determine your job?

Your major generally has very little baring on your role. In some of the more limited roles (hospitality/BBB), an applicable major may help, but that aside, not so much.

Classes are not required on the program, but they are recommended. There is a special track of entertainment classes (Entertainment Professional Development Series) in the education program only open to those majoring in performing arts, theater or show production. More info on this PDS here (http://www.wdwcollegeprogram.com/sap/its/mimes/zh_wdwcp/syllabi/EntertainmentPDS_info.pdf). Note that these classes are not part of the series recommended for credit by the American Council on Education, but you may be able to obtain credit through your school via individual arrangements you setup.

[LittleAlice]

Thanks and now I will hug you via computer. *hug*

[TinyBit]

I was already accepted for ATTRACTIONS. I emailed my preferences for which ATTRACTION I wanted to work at. They sent me a very nice reply email basically saying that they appreciate the input and they will take it into consideration. I know nothing is guaranteed, but what do you think my chances are of being assigned one of the roles I asked for?

I asked for Haunted Mansion, Splash Mtn, Pirates, RocknRoller Coaster, Tower of Terror or the Safari.

I know those are all probably the most requested rides, but what do you think?

[Joanna71985]

I was just wondering,can a cp become a character? Everyone on this thread is talking about every job but that one and I was getting nervous

They sure can.

[ahoy kristen]

has anyone actually had experience AS a performer? everyone on the DIS board always talks about how exciting it would be, but i've never read about anyone who has actually been one.

[Joanna71985]

has anyone actually had experience AS a performer? everyone on the DIS board always talks about how exciting it would be, but i've never read about anyone who has actually been one.

I have never been it myself. But I have worked with the characters (as an attendant). And my friends have all be performers. And I hope to be myself (as soon as I pass the audition).

[KerTggr]

has anyone actually had experience AS a performer? everyone on the DIS board always talks about how exciting it would be, but i've never read about anyone who has actually been one.

Two of my friends down there were "close friends" of Mickey and Goofy respectively. They spent a lot of time at Hollywood and Vine when that was open at the Studios.

[graygables]

bumping in case anyone has roles to add!

[pinkpanda38]

has anyone actually had experience AS a performer? everyone on the DIS board always talks about how exciting it would be, but i've never read about anyone who has actually been one.

I don't think they really talk about it because they aren't really suppose to! Its kind of one of those jobs that doesn't exist!! ;) But its an experience you really can't describe!!

[jpod523]

Any Main Entrance Operations experiences? I have yet to hear experiences from someone in this role. All I know is you can either take tickets at the parks, greet people when they come in, work the toll booth, direct cars or sell tickets. With my luck, I'll be directing cars all day. :(

[nemofinder22]

Sweet I got Bell Service Dispatch, anyone else ever done this?

I read a lot on Merch, QSFB and attractions but not so much on some of the others like jpod's role as Main entrance or mine. Thanks everyone! oh look first post too!

[romtea]

hi there - I worked in Entertainement for Fall Advantage. It was awesome. There was an audition close to my college and so I went and made it.

My hours varied by season - at first I did mostly morning shifts where I would have to be in pretty early (I think around 7am) and then when I started in parades my shift was late like 3:00pm - 11:30 or so. But never horribly late as you don't have to "close" anything up after the park closes. Pm me for more info if you want.

[kroberts]

hi there - I worked in Entertainement for Fall Advantage. It was awesome. There was an audition close to my college and so I went and made it.

My hours varied by season - at first I did mostly morning shifts where I would have to be in pretty early (I think around 7am) and then when I started in parades my shift was late like 3:00pm - 11:30 or so. But never horribly late as you don't have to "close" anything up after the park closes. Pm me for more info if you want.

Wondering if you might be able to tell us if you were a face or furry character, and how much dance experience you have (since you got to be a parade performer--how exciting!)?

[romtea]

I was friends with the fur characters. I do have a lot of dance experience = it was my major in college BUT that doesn't mean that people with less dance experience won't get trained in parades. I have a height that covers LOTS of characters 5'2 and a half so I know that worked in my favor as well. If you have a height that is really needed you might get trained in parades if you have good coordination / ability to pick up simple dance routines. OH YEAH - if you go for an advantage program you are MUCH more likely to get trained in an extra - parade, show etc. because it is more worth their while to spend the time when you will be there for a longer time.

There were quite a few CP's that got to be face characters but I knew very few CP's that got to show their face and dance in the parades (unless you were a face character already) -it was a little more unusual when I went - but who knows could be different now. There are some entertainment CP's that never do anything but meet and greets and character meals etc and they warn you of this in your interview in case it would bug you.

Anyways - hope this helps. There were many people that got there and hated the job just as with everything else on the program. I tried to have a good attitude and really want to go back again to work someday if I can.

We are suppose to be really careful what we talk about so as not to ruin the magic. I try to not really tell people too much even now I just say "oh yeah I was a parade performer" but as this is a CP thread I felt it was okay to post. If you want even more specifics PM me.

[kroberts]

Thanks for the help!

[Caribbeanprincess]

I have a question about my role, FSF&B, i'm wondering what the hours are like. Do shifts usually go very late into the night?

[DisneyJersey]

I have a question about my role, FSF&B, i'm wondering what the hours are like. Do shifts usually go very late into the night?

depends on where you work, if you work at AK or Epcot, you will work shorter shifts than MGM or MK...due to the park hours differential...

[Joanna71985]

I have a question about my role, FSF&B, i'm wondering what the hours are like. Do shifts usually go very late into the night?

It depends on where you work. AK will be done the earliest, MGM/Epcot are in the middle, and MK goes the latest. Plus, there is also resorts.

[MarinaAndCharlie]

Can more people post a run-down of their position? :goodvibes

[carlwitac]

Can more people post a run-down of their position? :goodvibes

i will be working in attractions which to my knowledge is either a show or ride, hours also vary depending on the park , i would love to work at magic kingdom though no matter the hours and no matter the amount of guests each day. :yay:

[MarinaAndCharlie]

i will be working in attractions which to my knowledge is either a show or ride, hours also vary depending on the park , i would love to work at magic kingdom though no matter the hours and no matter the amount of guests each day. :yay:

Congratulations! Thats so exciting! Let us know how it goes and what its like!

[jpod523]

this is exactly what my folder says about main entrance operations:
working in one or more of the following areas: Parking, Park Greeter, Ticket Operations; staffing outdoor Toll Plaza areas; operating a large motorized parking tram and delivering narrations on a microphone; greeting all Guests who enter the park and validating their tickets; operating turnstile areas; selling various ticket media at our water parks, Downtown Disney, or Disney’s Wide World of Sports; using computerized registers; assisting with audience control, including during parades; cleaning main entrance areas; standing for extended periods of time; and working outdoors.

[Tiffanova]

I worked at Epcot Futureworld North merchandise. The locations included Strollers, Giftstop/Package Pick-Up, Camera Center, Gateway Gifts, and Leave a Legacy (now closed, though). I almost always worked at Strollers, Giftstop a handful of times, Leave a Legacy once, and I never worked at CC or GG after my training days. I loved working at Strollers, most of the time. It could get a little scary when we ran out of strollers or ECVs (angry guests), but those experiences don't outweigh all the positives. I also became an Area Trainer at Strollers halfway through my program. I enjoyed it, plus it gave me a .75 pay raise whenever I trained someone.

[_frazzle]

Can someone tell me what "close friends" mean? I want to be a character (not a face one; a fur character like Meeko or Timon or something). Also, I'm sorta overweight and never took ANY dance classes...does this mean I basically have no chance at becoming a character? My height is 5'4".

[Joanna71985]

Can someone tell me what "close friends" mean? I want to be a character (not a face one; a fur character like Meeko or Timon or something). Also, I'm sorta overweight and never took ANY dance classes...does this mean I basically have no chance at becoming a character? My height is 5'4".

"Close friends" means that you will be "assisting" a character on a certain day (for exampl, saying you are "close friends" with Chip and Dale means that you will be "assisting" them).

Not necessarily. I know people who don't dance that became performers. However, 5'4 is a very common height.

[jeff318]

I was a Vacation Planner on my college program (Spring 2008). I sold tickets to the theme parks and water parks. I was primarily located at the Transportation and Ticket Center (Magic Kingdom Vacation Planning), but during my CP they began a pilot (test) program of rotating the CPs through all four theme parks. I had the property orientation for each park, and was able to work at all of them except Animal Kingdom.

The Vacation Planner involved a decent amount of sales (explaining to people that another day in the Disney parks would be much more fun than a day at SeaWorld or Universal). Additionally, I had to handle quite a bit of cash each day -- just think about it, tens of $75 one-day-one-park tickets adds up!

One great thing about being a Vacation Planner was the fairly consistent work schedule. I normally worked 8:30-2:30, and was frequently able to extend until we closed at 5 or 6. This allowed me to hang out with friends from work at night, as well as pick up hours through the Extra Hours Hotline... I ended up working 66.5 hours one week!

[jjlara21]

Has anyone done Outside Vending Food & Beverage? How was it did you like it? Can we use a calculater cause i aint to good with money? Ill be working at disneyland.

[ashliejere]

for vacation planner do you work alone in like a both or do you get to work with other vacation planners?

[Joanna71985]

for vacation planner do you work alone in like a both or do you get to work with other vacation planners?

It can be both, from what I've seen.

[jeff318]

It can be both, from what I've seen.

The booths are not individual - there are spots for at least two people in each booth. For example, at MK there are six to a booth. For security reasons, they don't want people working alone like that.

[Joanna71985]

The booths are not individual - there are spots for at least two people in each booth. For example, at MK there are six to a booth. For security reasons, they don't want people working alone like that.

They may not be individual, but I have seen people working in them alone.

[jeff318]

They may not be individual, but I have seen people working in them alone.

It doesn't happen very often at all for the Vacation Planning booths. Guest Relations is more likely to run a single.

[taeclarke]

I worked in Future World South Merchandise, Spring Advantage 06

This role included work in three areas:Club Cool, Pin Central, or Art of Disney.

Pin Central, for me, was the worst. You basically stand outside all day selling and trading pins. It got a little annoying and hot!

Club Cool was fun, the best of all three costumes. Basically there is a small amout of merchandise and beverages that you have to sell and assist guests.

My favorite was AOD. AOD involves selling really high end Disney art and Merchandise. Its amazing how much people will spend on Disney stuff. When I was there they had a couple FT working there so they didn't really give CP's hours in the store. Also because there is some selling involved, the managers tend to pick who they want to work in the store.

I picked up hours in a couple other merchandise areas including downtown Disney which was also very cool.

Overall it was a great experience and it looks great on my resume.

[jjlara21]

Has anyone done Outside Vending and Beverage Cashier? I've posted this question before but its not here anymore so i dont know what happened. I leave next saturday and would like to know more about it before i get there.

[DisneyJersey]

Has anyone done Outside Vending and Beverage Cashier? I've posted this question before but its not here anymore so i dont know what happened. I leave next saturday and would like to know more about it before i get there.

I've never done it but, its easy, they will have a palm pilot style POS to keep track of inventory and how much money was made, and also to help with change, etc you will have a walkie talkie to communicate to a stocker if you need more food/beverages... its pretty easy except you will be outside all day, pulling the cart to a specific location and staying there essentially, its not that difficult a job, I would think.

[KerTggr]

Has anyone done Outside Vending and Beverage Cashier? I've posted this question before but its not here anymore so i dont know what happened. I leave next saturday and would like to know more about it before i get there.

I did not do this, but had 2 friends that did this at the Studios. They loved it - said it was the best group of people to work with. I remember them also saying that they could pick up lots of extra hours because the position was basically the same in all parks. One got to work in all 4 parks during her time there by doing this. Said it was really neat to be able to work in all 4. HTH!!

[MarinaAndCharlie]

Its been a while since this thread was posted on but I figured most of you will be in Orlando around this time in your CP positions and could give real time answers and advice.

I, of course, have a hundred million questions. Ready?

Attractions:
1) In a non-spiel attraction, how would you describe your daily routine? How often do you feel you are a greeter compared to working the console?

2)On the attractions description on the role checklist, it says attractions is also a "theatre" show. I'm thinking that means Its Tough to be a Bug and Philharmagic, or does that also apply to live shows like B&TB, FOTLK, and Nemo?

3) I've noticed some rides allow people in EVCs to ride if they can transfer into the ride car. Does this mean by themselves or do you usually lend a hand to help them in and out?

Hospitality:
1)How often do you deal with problematic guests completely on your own? Is it policy to always call on a manager to deal with the problem? Is it at your discretion to upgrade guests to better rooms if a problem arrises or will a manager do that?

2) What are the dispatch and telephone room positions? Are you always one thing or are these positions that everyone shuffles through throughout the week?

Character attendant:
1) Do you get trained on what to say to questions about why the characters can't talk, etc, or do you make it up as you go along?

2) The role checklist says attendants assist performers with putting on costumes? Does this happen often and can someone tell me what this means? Is it just zipping them up?

Costuming:
1) Can someone explain an average day or week in costuming? Is it mostly just laundry? Do you apply makeup or assist characters with putting on their costumes on a regular basis?

Entertainment:
1) Are the fur character costumes relatively heavy? Would you compare the weight to wearing a ski jacket, etc or something heavier?

Thanks!! I know its a lot but I've been thinking about each of these and I was just waiting until more people had a fresh idea of the roles.

[jjlara21]

Thank you you guys for answering. Hopefully I do ok

[SweaterInJune]

Attractions:
1) In a non-spiel attraction, how would you describe your daily routine? How often do you feel you are a greeter compared to working the console?

2)On the attractions description on the role checklist, it says attractions is also a "theatre" show. I'm thinking that means Its Tough to be a Bug and Philharmagic, or does that also apply to live shows like B&TB, FOTLK, and Nemo?

3) I've noticed some rides allow people in EVCs to ride if they can transfer into the ride car. Does this mean by themselves or do you usually lend a hand to help them in and out?



1) I worked at Safaris, therefore spiel, and so I guess I can't answer that... The computers randomly assign your position though based on who needs a break (or bumping you through rotation you so someone goes on break).

2)It can be any of the shows, but you won't be in the show or anything. You would be a greeter, audience control, clean-up, etc. These are so called "house positions" with direct guest-contact.

3) You do NOT touch the guests. This is for liability. They must be able to transfer on their own or with the help of there family, be it from ECV or wheelchair, as needed. Some attractions(like Safaris) can accomodate wheelchairs, if unable to transfer, but not ECVs. You might be responsible for strapping in the chair in this case. This also for liability. The chair must be secure as the ride is quite bouncy and could be extremely dangerous if the chair wasn't secured correctly.

Hope this helps...if you have more questions, let me know.

And yes,...the costumes in entertainment are heavy! This is also true in costuming if you're assigned to launder the garments...you may get heavy loads to care for.

Good luck deciding on the correct roles for you!

[MarinaAndCharlie]

First of all, thanks for the quick response and all your help. A year in Germany sounds incredible!

The computers randomly assign your position though based on who needs a break (or bumping you through rotation you so someone goes on break).

So when you head into work each day, someone (or a computer) will tell you what position your working that day? When you go on break, do you get reassigned or is it that position for the whole shift?





And yes,...the costumes in entertainment are heavy!


How heavy? As heavy as like... a 24 pack of cokes or more? Anymore than that may be a problem for me as I'm quite small. haha.

Also, do you know how long characters are "on stage" at a time? I think I heard it was in 15 minute intervals but I don't really know where I heard that. If I could rest for a minute that often, it wouldn't be a problem how heavy they were I think.

[glendalais]

I've never done it but, its easy, they will have a palm pilot style POS to keep track of inventory and how much money was made, and also to help with change, etc you will have a walkie talkie to communicate to a stocker if you need more food/beverages... its pretty easy except you will be outside all day, pulling the cart to a specific location and staying there essentially, its not that difficult a job, I would think.

Just for future reference, in case anyone is looking at this while thinking about doing a DLR CP.

Outdoor Vending/Ventures at the DLR doesn't use the mini MATRA (POS/Cash Register) systems that they use in Outdoor Foods at WDW. There are some stalls that will use the full size MATRA systems. Otherwise, all Cash Handling in that area is done by hand.

How often do you deal with problematic guests completely on your own? Is it policy to always call on a manager to deal with the problem? Is it at your discretion to upgrade guests to better rooms if a problem arrises or will a manager do that?

You do have some leeway to create Guest Service Solutions, a little bit more in roles such as Front Desk/Lobby Concierge/Guest Relations than most others. It very much depends on the situation and what the proposed solution is.

For example, let's say you have a family that got forced out of their room because of a sewage backup which resulted in an overflow, and is now at your Front Desk counter at 3 AM in the morning.

You probably couldn't comp the entire cost of their vacation without getting management involved. However, you could upgrade them to a different room/resort, and issue them comps so that they can get new clothes/luggage to replace the ones they left behind, without getting Management involved (though, you should probably mention it to them, and I'm sure that's somewhere in Resort Operations SOP). If need be, you could (and really should) comp them the cost of that night's stay.

So when you head into work each day, someone (or a computer) will tell you what position your working that day? When you go on break, do you get reassigned or is it that position for the whole shift?

For Attractions, you are rotated (I believe it's supposed to be every 15 minutes or so) through the various positions, so you are certainly not staying in the same position for the length of your shift. It's actually unsafe for an Attractions CM to be in the same position for an extended period of time (since they have to be alert), so you should inform your Coordinator/Lead or a Manager if that were to happen.

[SweaterInJune]

First of all, thanks for the quick response and all your help. A year in Germany sounds incredible!

So when you head into work each day, someone (or a computer) will tell you what position your working that day? When you go on break, do you get reassigned or is it that position for the whole shift?

How heavy? As heavy as like... a 24 pack of cokes or more? Anymore than that may be a problem for me as I'm quite small. haha.

Also, do you know how long characters are "on stage" at a time? I think I heard it was in 15 minute intervals but I don't really know where I heard that. If I could rest for a minute that often, it wouldn't be a problem how heavy they were I think.

It has been an amazing experience...but, clearly, so was my time at WDW!

So, everything at Disney is done on a computer. You will clock in and get all assignments on the computer. Someone mentioned rotating every 15 minutes?! I'm not sure what attraction that's for, but not even close to being correct for Safaris! That doesn't mean it's not true for other attractions though. Usually we would be at an assigned position for 1-2 hours before being reassigned. Again, I'm not sure how this works time-wise at other attractions. Most important though, you will likely not be in the same position all day--although it's possible in some spiel attractions.

As for costume weight. I haven't worked costuming for Disney, but I have worked with similar costumes elsewhere and I have a degree in costuming. The weights will vary depending on what you're working on. It's really hard to say. Somedays it could be more, somedays less...it all depends on what you're assigned to do.

I know characters work the same time on and then an equal amout off, but I'm not 100% certain. I used to know this, but I've sadly forgotten. Anyhow, I'm sure someone else remembers this, for sure.

[MarinaAndCharlie]

Thanks for your help guys!

Anyone else?

[zulemara]

I was perm greeter at Haunted Mansion on the extra hours hotline, but I can confirm that they rotated every 15 mintues. Someone would come out with a slip of paper and hand it to the next person and they would rotate to whatever the paper said.

As for characters, in the hot times I think it's 20min on 40 min off. During cooler times it's more like 30 30 or even 40 20. This is why it's VERY important as an attendant that you make sure you get those characters backstage when they are supposed to. As my fellow campus rep said, it's the only time you directly tell a Disney guest NO and have the full backing of the company, managers, and guest services. He said people yelled at him everyday and threatened to complain, but even if they did, nothing would be done because he is doing what he's assigned to do.

[MarinaAndCharlie]

You do have some leeway to create Guest Service Solutions, a little bit more in roles such as Front Desk/Lobby Concierge/Guest Relations than most others. It very much depends on the situation and what the proposed solution is.

For example, let's say you have a family that got forced out of their room because of a sewage backup which resulted in an overflow, and is now at your Front Desk counter at 3 AM in the morning.

You probably couldn't comp the entire cost of their vacation without getting management involved. However, you could upgrade them to a different room/resort, and issue them comps so that they can get new clothes/luggage to replace the ones they left behind, without getting Management involved (though, you should probably mention it to them, and I'm sure that's somewhere in Resort Operations SOP). If need be, you could (and really should) comp them the cost of that night's stay.

Thanks for explaining this! I've been wondering for a while.

In training, do they explain what is reasonable comp for what situation and how to handle the comps or do you get a manager involved until you know most situations? I don't want to be left in the dust as far as what to say..



As for characters, in the hot times I think it's 20min on 40 min off. During cooler times it's more like 30 30 or even 40 20. This is why it's VERY important as an attendant that you make sure you get those characters backstage when they are supposed to. As my fellow campus rep said, it's the only time you directly tell a Disney guest NO and have the full backing of the company, managers, and guest services. He said people yelled at him everyday and threatened to complain, but even if they did, nothing would be done because he is doing what he's assigned to do.

Do they explain how to handle these situations.. like with specific things you tell the guests?

Anyone with experience in the character attendant role: Was this a big offset? I know there are downs to every position but I was really looking into this specific role. I don't know that I want to be yelled at everyday...

[Joanna71985]

Its been a while since this thread was posted on but I figured most of you will be in Orlando around this time in your CP positions and could give real time answers and advice.

I, of course, have a hundred million questions. Ready?

2)On the attractions description on the role checklist, it says attractions is also a "theatre" show. I'm thinking that means Its Tough to be a Bug and Philharmagic, or does that also apply to live shows like B&TB, FOTLK, and Nemo?

Yes, shows fall under attractions. It could be a live show (like Finding Nemo), or a 3-D show (Muppets).


Character attendant:
1) Do you get trained on what to say to questions about why the characters can't talk, etc, or do you make it up as you go along?

2) The role checklist says attendants assist performers with putting on costumes? Does this happen often and can someone tell me what this means? Is it just zipping them up?

Thanks!! I know its a lot but I've been thinking about each of these and I was just waiting until more people had a fresh idea of the roles.

1. Yes you do. They teach you some things to say.

2. Not too often. Usually it just is helping with zipping and tucking. Most can take care of themselves. Most of the assisting takes place out on stage.




Also, do you know how long characters are "on stage" at a time? I think I heard it was in 15 minute intervals but I don't really know where I heard that. If I could rest for a minute that often, it wouldn't be a problem how heavy they were I think.

It depends on the time of year, and also if the character is inside or outside. If a character is outside, they will be out for 20 minutes (summer) and 30 minutes (winter). If they are inside, they will be out for about 35-45 minutes. Also, the times for a character like Mickey are different from a character like Peter Pan.

Thanks for explaining this! I've been wondering for a while.
Do they explain how to handle these situations.. like with specific things you tell the guests?

Anyone with experience in the character attendant role: Was this a big offset? I know there are downs to every position but I was really looking into this specific role. I don't know that I want to be yelled at everyday...

Yes they do. You go through it in training.

And not really. Yes, you have people complaining. But I can count on one hand how many times people really got upset (and unfortunately 2 of them happened in one day, my last week this summer). If you have any more questions, I can try to answer them. CA is an awsome role.

[twinsfreak]

Has anybody ever done main entrance operations?

[kroberts]

I was wondering if anyone could give some insight to Full Service Food & Beverage. Are you more likely to work in the parks or the resorts? What are the hours like? Are you going to work with many CPs or more FT CMs?

[Joanna71985]

I was wondering if anyone could give some insight to Full Service Food & Beverage. Are you more likely to work in the parks or the resorts? What are the hours like? Are you going to work with many CPs or more FT CMs?

It could be either. There are plenty at both. In my opinion, I would say chances are a little better for a park one (as there are more there).

And for FSFB, you probably will be working with more FT/PT CMs then CPs.

[Soarin08]

What's involved in Merchandising? This is my second choice after Full Service Food and Beverage. Has anyone ever done Merchandising before?

[Joanna71985]

What's involved in Merchandising? This is my second choice after Full Service Food and Beverage. Has anyone ever done Merchandising before?

I did merchandise my first CP (Spring 2005). I was mostly in Fantasyland, but also spent 2 weeks each in Liberty Square and Adventureland. I mostly worked the registers, but I also worked the shop floor and assisted the guests. And once in awhile, I did stocking.

[jpod523]

Has anybody ever done main entrance operations?

I was accepted into main entrance operations, and i was a door hostess at the night clubs at Pleasure Island for a month (until they closed on Saturday). i scanned tickets, checked id's issued wristbands and kept accurate club counts.

Now I'm working attractions. Space Mountain. They switched my role, I didn't have a choice (not that i'm really complaining). My friends were moved to MK and are still in MEO, they're greeting people at the gates, taking tickets, and helping with parade audience control.

[twinsfreak]

I was accepted into main entrance operations, and i was a door hostess at the night clubs at Pleasure Island for a month (until they closed on Saturday). i scanned tickets, checked id's issued wristbands and kept accurate club counts.

Now I'm working attractions. Space Mountain. They switched my role, I didn't have a choice (not that i'm really complaining). My friends were moved to MK and are still in MEO, they're greeting people at the gates, taking tickets, and helping with parade audience control.

Ok thank you so much! Im still deciding whether or not I want to go. What do you reccomend?

[jpod523]

Ok thank you so much! Im still deciding whether or not I want to go. What do you reccomend?

i'd say definitely put it down as one of your options if you're interested in it. it was third on my list, but I still accepted and ended up lucking out and getting my number one pick anyways. I literally just had my first day of training today, so I really can't give any opinions on attractions, but I enjoyed my time as Main Entrance Operations at Pleasure Island. Everyone has different experiences though.

[Joanna71985]

Now I'm working attractions. Space Mountain. They switched my role, I didn't have a choice (not that i'm really complaining). My friends were moved to MK and are still in MEO, they're greeting people at the gates, taking tickets, and helping with parade audience control.

Ooo, you did get Space Mountain! That's exciting! How is training going?

[jpod523]

Ooo, you did get Space Mountain! That's exciting! How is training going?

slowly! basically we're all on stroller parking duty for two weeks until they could squeeze us into a training schedule. :( I'll get there eventually!!

[twinsfreak]

i'd say definitely put it down as one of your options if you're interested in it. it was third on my list, but I still accepted and ended up lucking out and getting my number one pick anyways. I literally just had my first day of training today, so I really can't give any opinions on attractions, but I enjoyed my time as Main Entrance Operations at Pleasure Island. Everyone has different experiences though.

Ok thanks!! :)

[anijac1412]

Newbie here! I have a question for anyone who's been a character attendant. Can you carry a camera around with you to take random pics of your characters and stuff? I notice a lot of people who were character attendants have a whole bunch of pics with their characters so I was just curious :)

[Joanna71985]

Newbie here! I have a question for anyone who's been a character attendant. Can you carry a camera around with you to take random pics of your characters and stuff? I notice a lot of people who were character attendants have a whole bunch of pics with their characters so I was just curious :)

Congrats!! Character attendant is such a fun role. I have done it twice now.

As for cameras, you can. Just be careful of what/when you use it for.

[anijac1412]

Great to know! Thanks Joanna! :D

[Joanna71985]

Great to know! Thanks Joanna! :D

You're welcome.:)

[Climber656]

Character attendant (in my opinion) is a great role. I love getting to work with the characters, and work in all 4 parks. Also, the hours are not too bad. The only time you usually work late is if you are assigned to dining, Toontown, Epcot WS (a couple of places are opened later then others), and maybe EMH (if you get it). Other then that, most are morning/afternoon shifts.

This sounds like fun. I am doing my CP in Spring of 09'. I think I wanna work Rockin' Roller Coaster. Any thoughts?

[Joanna71985]

This sounds like fun. I am doing my CP in Spring of 09'. I think I wanna work Rockin' Roller Coaster. Any thoughts?

When you interview, make sure to let the recruiter know that if possible, you would love to work there. Hopefully they will be able to make it work.

[edk35]

My dd starts college next fall and she is a dancer. She was wondering if anyone could post information about dancing at WDW. Thanks!!!:goodvibes

[M.I.C.]

It doesn't seem like anyone has done Lifeguarding.....not a good role I'm guessing....

[kroberts]

It doesn't seem like anyone has done Lifeguarding.....not a good role I'm guessing....

I've actually heard a lot of good things about lifeguarding. The hours are good, you get to spend time outside, you're pay is higher than most CP roles. Also, it'd be a lot of fun to work at one of the water parks, if you got those locations; a lot of people have been to Disney World multiple times without ever going to the parks and they're a good time.

[KerTggr]

This sounds like fun. I am doing my CP in Spring of 09'. I think I wanna work Rockin' Roller Coaster. Any thoughts?

I did CP back in 2001 (yes, I'm old for this board - but just watch this thread). I met my best friend working at RNRC. It's a great place to work - lots of enthusiastic people and good hours since it's the studios. The front row line they've added seems to help out too.

As a second option, the merchandise store at RNRC had a bunch of really cool/fun people working there too!

[Joanna71985]

My dd starts college next fall and she is a dancer. She was wondering if anyone could post information about dancing at WDW. Thanks!!!:goodvibes

There really isn't much in the way of dancing for the CP. The only real CP dancing roles falls under entertainment (parades and shows).

[americangeiko]

I was part of the opening team for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Cinderella's Castle. (Yes, I was a FGIT.)

The role requires you to be female, able to climb 3 flights of stairs everyday (though there is a way around that), and capable of standing on your feet for 6-12hrs a day.

You'll also have 1 week of training with a trainer who'll teach you the 3 hairstyles, the rules, and other items related to the Boutique. Afterwards you'll have 2 wks of probation where you'll be monitored while you're with guests.

From there, everything is a piece of cake. There's no register training, you can't work for the DD Boutique, but you *can* accept tips. The only downside is that the Boutique is *incredibly* busy 24/7, so you must be able to deal with a high-volume work atmosphere. However, there's set hours for the Boutique so you'll never have a "till 3am" shift followed by a "8am open".

...And there's always the added benefit of air-conditioning!

[salvaXdana]

ive been considering lifeguarding as one of my choices, because well, ive been guarding for 7 years now hahaha. but i was wondering if disney takes your cert. cards, or if you have to take the entire guard test for them? or is it just a required swim test? just wondering whats involved with that and what the training is like, etc.

i would really like to do attractions since its something different than guarding, and i would really like to try something new. but then again, being in a different state, working, and knowing my job really well already isnt such a bad thing either. i dont know! i have to decide hahaa

[Joanna71985]

You have to take a swim test down in FL for the lifeguard role.

[salvaXdana]

You have to take a swim test down in FL for the lifeguard role.

thanks joanna!:)

[Joanna71985]

thanks joanna!:)

You're welcome. :)

[anijac1412]

I was part of the opening team for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Cinderella's Castle. (Yes, I was a FGIT.)

The role requires you to be female, able to climb 3 flights of stairs everyday (though there is a way around that), and capable of standing on your feet for 6-12hrs a day.

You'll also have 1 week of training with a trainer who'll teach you the 3 hairstyles, the rules, and other items related to the Boutique. Afterwards you'll have 2 wks of probation where you'll be monitored while you're with guests.

From there, everything is a piece of cake. There's no register training, you can't work for the DD Boutique, but you *can* accept tips. The only downside is that the Boutique is *incredibly* busy 24/7, so you must be able to deal with a high-volume work atmosphere. However, there's set hours for the Boutique so you'll never have a "till 3am" shift followed by a "8am open".

...And there's always the added benefit of air-conditioning!

That sounds like so much fun!! Especially since you get to make make the kids' dreams come true every minute of the day! Something to consider.

I still think I would rather do the character attendant though. Disney characters have been close to since I was a little girl so it would be amazing just to hang out with them all day! Plus you get to move around the parks and chat with all the guests which is such a great bonus! :D

[Joanna71985]

I still think I would rather do the character attendant though. Disney characters have been close to since I was a little girl so it would be amazing just to hang out with them all day! Plus you get to move around the parks and chat with all the guests which is such a great bonus! :D

That's the best part, getting to work in all 4 parks! I have worked in so many different areas. It's awsome!:goodvibes

[kroberts]

ive been considering lifeguarding as one of my choices, because well, ive been guarding for 7 years now hahaha. but i was wondering if disney takes your cert. cards, or if you have to take the entire guard test for them? or is it just a required swim test? just wondering whats involved with that and what the training is like, etc.

i would really like to do attractions since its something different than guarding, and i would really like to try something new. but then again, being in a different state, working, and knowing my job really well already isnt such a bad thing either. i dont know! i have to decide hahaa

I would definitely consider lifeguarding unless you're really sick of it. You'll definitely be qualified, which will make your training/transition much easier. That being said, lifeguard is also one of the best-paid positions in the CP (I've heard somewhere around $8, versus the $6.79 attractions makes). It sounds like a small difference but that extra money really adds up. It's a $48.40 difference in a 40-hour week, which could be your entire food budget. If money's not an issue and you're sick of guarding, go for attractions, but the extra cash is definitely worth considering.

[salvaXdana]

I would definitely consider lifeguarding unless you're really sick of it. You'll definitely be qualified, which will make your training/transition much easier. That being said, lifeguard is also one of the best-paid positions in the CP (I've heard somewhere around $8, versus the $6.79 attractions makes). It sounds like a small difference but that extra money really adds up. It's a $48.40 difference in a 40-hour week, which could be your entire food budget. If money's not an issue and you're sick of guarding, go for attractions, but the extra cash is definitely worth considering.

thanks kroberts! thats a great point! something ill definitely consider!
it never hurts to have a little extra cash haha.

[ElectricMayhem88]

I asked my Campus Rep about Photopass and the CM giving the presentation said to put it down on my Check list because it was a possibility. Has anyone done Photopass? Also, for attractions do you have any say as to what ride you are attending or is that left up to the computer as well?

[KerTggr]

I asked my Campus Rep about Photopass and the CM giving the presentation said to put it down on my Check list because it was a possibility. Has anyone done Photopass? Also, for attractions do you have any say as to what ride you are attending or is that left up to the computer as well?

When I was there (granted it was in 2001 before photopass was implemented), the picture people were employeed by a vendor (Kodak) and not Disney. Thus a CP couldn't do photopass. This might have changed though.

Something to keep in mind for the future if you are interested in photography, Disney does offer photography/media professional internships in both CA & FL.

[Joanna71985]

I asked my Campus Rep about Photopass and the CM giving the presentation said to put it down on my Check list because it was a possibility. Has anyone done Photopass? Also, for attractions do you have any say as to what ride you are attending or is that left up to the computer as well?

WDW CPs can't do Photopass. It is offered for the DL CP though.

[MarinaAndCharlie]

Congrats!! Character attendant is such a fun role. I have done it twice now.

As for cameras, you can. Just be careful of what/when you use it for.

Oh wow! I thought you weren't allowed to have cameras. That's very neat! So what kind of stuff is acceptable vs whats not acceptable?

I was part of the opening team for the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique at Cinderella's Castle. (Yes, I was a FGIT.)

The role requires you to be female, able to climb 3 flights of stairs everyday (though there is a way around that), and capable of standing on your feet for 6-12hrs a day.

You'll also have 1 week of training with a trainer who'll teach you the 3 hairstyles, the rules, and other items related to the Boutique. Afterwards you'll have 2 wks of probation where you'll be monitored while you're with guests.

From there, everything is a piece of cake. There's no register training, you can't work for the DD Boutique, but you *can* accept tips. The only downside is that the Boutique is *incredibly* busy 24/7, so you must be able to deal with a high-volume work atmosphere. However, there's set hours for the Boutique so you'll never have a "till 3am" shift followed by a "8am open".

...And there's always the added benefit of air-conditioning!

Did you or any of your coworkers know anyone in the position who didn't have previous salon experience? I've heard you need it but it isn't on the role checklist or anything so I'm trying to get a well rounded response. I've always wanted to go to cosmetology school and be a hairdresser but my parents said I have to go to college first.

You just style the hair right, you don't cut it?

Thanks! :wizard:

[ElectricMayhem88]

WDW CPs can't do Photopass. It is offered for the DL CP though.

That's what I thought too, but I asked the CM giving the presentation, he said they were trying it out at WDW, put a sticky note on my App and I was asked about it during my phone interview.

[MarinaAndCharlie]

That's what I thought too, but I asked the CM giving the presentation, he said they were trying it out at WDW, put a sticky note on my App and I was asked about it during my phone interview.

Ooh!! Please let me know how this goes and if you hear any more information about it?

[Joanna71985]

Oh wow! I thought you weren't allowed to have cameras. That's very neat! So what kind of stuff is acceptable vs whats not acceptable?


You just style the hair right, you don't cut it?

Thanks! :wizard:

You just have to be careful of what's in the background. If you'd like, I can show you some of my pictures.

No, you don't cut hair at BBB.

That's what I thought too, but I asked the CM giving the presentation, he said they were trying it out at WDW, put a sticky note on my App and I was asked about it during my phone interview.

Really? Wow, if that's added for Fall 09, I'm going to have a hard decision.

[ElectricMayhem88]

Really? Wow, if that's added for Fall 09, I'm going to have a hard decision.

Yeah I am pretty excited even about the chance for it. How many Semesters of the CP can you do? That is something I meant to ask my campus rep but forgot.

[Joanna71985]

Yeah I am pretty excited even about the chance for it. How many Semesters of the CP can you do? That is something I meant to ask my campus rep but forgot.

You can do 2 in a row before you leave (up to a year). Overall, you can do as many as you want. I just finished my 4th CP in Aug (2 were summer-only CPs though) and will be applying for my 5th in May.

[M.I.C.]

I don't want to do merchandising because I've been in retail all my life and I'm used to being in management now, and I doubt Disney will care I have so much experiance lol

[Joanna71985]

I don't want to do merchandising because I've been in retail all my life and I'm used to being in management now, and I doubt Disney will care I have so much experiance lol

Oh they do. I have a friend who was just put in merchandise for Spring 09, and she didn't pick it as a choice (she works in retail at home).

[M.I.C.]

yea but I mean I doubt they'd care that I've been a manager before, they'd probly still just throw me in at minimum wage

[americangeiko]

yea but I mean I doubt they'd care that I've been a manager before, they'd probly still just throw me in at minimum wage

It's a flat wage no matter what position you get. The only difference is if you're in a "tipped" position, then things can change a lot.

I went from being one of the lowest paid people in my apartment because they all had QSFB, to one of the highest because they changed my role to a "tipped" position.

[mybestieismickey]

I worked Main Entrance Operations (Fall Advantage 2004), but I think when I went it was more generally classified to just Operations and included attractions. In any case I was assigned to Parking at MK. I don't know if it's still this way, but we weren't given our actual assignment till we checked in. I almost cried when they told me parking.
After a couple of hours, I was okay with it though. I didn't know parking meant driving and speiling on trams in addition to directing traffic. Believe it or not, I really think this was a great role. I had so much fun and I had way better break times than my room mates. Ours were dependent on fluctating need as opposed to computer assignment, so my 30 min lunch was often 45 mins to an hour or more. They couldn't send us home 'cause they would need us for exit or random surges in arrival or departure.
My role was pretty self explanitory. We drove the trams, we speiled on the back of the tram (park info on the way in, parking lot info on the way out), directed traffic to parking places or to the exit if tram patterns required it, some crowd control in the loading zones, and trash pickup. On New Years Eve we also did turn around when the park was closed and we weren't parking any more cars (this involved an Orange County Sherriff and was quite interesting). Some CPs chose to cross train and the entrance plaza, gift shop and lost and found, but none of those were particularly appealing to me.
Since I worked summer, fall, and winter I got to see a lot of weather. The summer was hot outside. I got a really ridiculous tan that my roomies liked to make fun of (I was tan from elbow to fingertip, knee to ankle, and a small v-neck), fall was fabulous, and some winter days were so cold that I wore my rain gear under my costume to block the wind which could make the back of the tram miserable.
One word of advice for anyone working outside: if they still have them, get the yellow rain gear instead of the clear kind. It doesn't tear as easy. And in the parking lot I found it helpful to wear my shoe covers after the rain to protect myself from the puddles. I'm not sure if that was legal, but i got really tired of wet socks.
Sorry this was so long.

[Joanna71985]

Nope. Parking and Front Entrance is now seperate from attractions.

[twinsfreak]

I worked Main Entrance Operations (Fall Advantage 2004), but I think when I went it was more generally classified to just Operations and included attractions. In any case I was assigned to Parking at MK. I don't know if it's still this way, but we weren't given our actual assignment till we checked in. I almost cried when they told me parking.
After a couple of hours, I was okay with it though. I didn't know parking meant driving and speiling on trams in addition to directing traffic. Believe it or not, I really think this was a great role. I had so much fun and I had way better break times than my room mates. Ours were dependent on fluctating need as opposed to computer assignment, so my 30 min lunch was often 45 mins to an hour or more. They couldn't send us home 'cause they would need us for exit or random surges in arrival or departure.
My role was pretty self explanitory. We drove the trams, we speiled on the back of the tram (park info on the way in, parking lot info on the way out), directed traffic to parking places or to the exit if tram patterns required it, some crowd control in the loading zones, and trash pickup. On New Years Eve we also did turn around when the park was closed and we weren't parking any more cars (this involved an Orange County Sherriff and was quite interesting). Some CPs chose to cross train and the entrance plaza, gift shop and lost and found, but none of those were particularly appealing to me.
Since I worked summer, fall, and winter I got to see a lot of weather. The summer was hot outside. I got a really ridiculous tan that my roomies liked to make fun of (I was tan from elbow to fingertip, knee to ankle, and a small v-neck), fall was fabulous, and some winter days were so cold that I wore my rain gear under my costume to block the wind which could make the back of the tram miserable.
One word of advice for anyone working outside: if they still have them, get the yellow rain gear instead of the clear kind. It doesn't tear as easy. And in the parking lot I found it helpful to wear my shoe covers after the rain to protect myself from the puddles. I'm not sure if that was legal, but i got really tired of wet socks.
Sorry this was so long.
Thanks for the info!

[MarinaAndCharlie]

For anyone scanning over this thread -

If you see your role already explained by a previous poster, please feel free to post your own account of your CP because I've noticed that the same role seems to differ from location to location. Plus its always fun to hear everyone's experiences. So don't be shy and post please! We're all very curious! :lovestruc

[Joanna71985]

For anyone scanning over this thread -

If you see your role already explained by a previous poster, please feel free to post your own account of your CP because I've noticed that the same role seems to differ from location to location. Plus its always fun to hear everyone's experiences. So don't be shy and post please! We're all very curious! :lovestruc

Was there any role in particular you were looking for?

[Ashley022489]

I was selected for Housekeeping for Spring 09, which might turn out to be a mistake, I am still waiting for response from my recruiter, but I was just wondering if anyone on here had ever done it? I know what the job entails, that's common sense, but I just wanted to see if anyone had done the role and what they thought of it. Thanks!

[MarinaAndCharlie]

Was there any role in particular you were looking for?

Well I haven't narrowed down my roles too much but I was looking more for a "day in the life" sort of thing. Just a breakdown of what you do from shift start to shift end.

I'm interested, in your case Joanna, in character attendant and custodial.

Do you think if I put custodial as one of my choices, they'll completely overlook my other choices and put me in custodial because they need people for it more than the others? I would only want to do custodial after character attendant and BBB hostess. My first choice would be character performer but that's pending at audition. I wouldn't mind custodial, its just my last choice..

And for anyone else, I was interested in a detailed explanation of an average day in costuming, BBB Hostess, and transportation.

thanks!! :goodvibes :goodvibes

[Joanna71985]

Well I haven't narrowed down my roles too much but I was looking more for a "day in the life" sort of thing. Just a breakdown of what you do from shift start to shift end.

I'm interested, in your case Joanna, in character attendant and custodial.

Do you think if I put custodial as one of my choices, they'll completely overlook my other choices and put me in custodial because they need people for it more than the others? I would only want to do custodial after character attendant and BBB hostess. My first choice would be character performer but that's pending at audition. I wouldn't mind custodial, its just my last choice..

And for anyone else, I was interested in a detailed explanation of an average day in costuming, BBB Hostess, and transportation.

thanks!! :goodvibes :goodvibes

Ah, ok. Well, for my two:
Character Attendant
Character Attendant is a pretty simple role. You know your schedule 2 weeks in advance (though it can change). The schedule tells you which park and character you will be working with (though you may not always know the exact character, as some spots have more then one). Unlike other roles where they can bring home 5 costumes at a time, character attendants can't. This means you have to go to costuming everytime. Most shifts aren't that long. Last summer I usually worked something like 10am to 6pm, or something like that. Unlike the performers, attendants usually stay out the whole time. Breaks are given by a breaker (an attendant who specifically gives breaks to people). However, there are certain cases where you will go in with the character. There are different places where you work- regular meets, dining, shows. Regular meets are the basic get in line and meet a character. Dining is the character dining. And shows are stuff like Dream Along with Mickey. For regular meets, you make sure the line stays orderly. Make sure the people have their books open, pens set, and cameras ready to go (and if there is a Photopass photographer, make sure they have their photopass card out). Answer questions for guests. And the big one- assisting the character(s). For dining, you basically go around making sure people stay at their tables and don't go chasing after the characters. Also to make sure the books are open (since the characters won't have that much time at each table). And for shows, it's pretty much just making sure people are behaving.

Custodial
Every location may be different. Now for me, I worked in Epcot WS (so I worked in all the countries). You would be working either in restrooms or in streets. I learned to never go by what my schedule said, since half the time it was wrong or I was pulled to the other. Streets is where you would walk around with the pan and broom sweeping up trash, taking care of the garbage cans, and major guest interaction (taking pictures, answering questions, giving directions, ect). For restrooms, you would be taking care of the restrooms in your area (keeping them clean, stocking them, ect). Now for the WS, you had 1 country for Streets and 2 countries for Restrooms (for example, I would have Germany and Italy together for restrooms). Usually it was 3 bathrooms for both countries. We also got scheduled sometimes for special events. This includes the concerts in the American Adventure theater (like the Sounds like Summer concerts), and events in the big building behind UK/Canada (I can't remember the name of the building). I was in there for a few events. There were 2 different times for shifts. You either opened or closed. Opening was 6:45am til 1:15 or 3:15 pm. And closing was 1:15pm or 3:15pm til closing. Also, you got a duty for before or after your shift (depending on if you opened or closed). This would be getting something ready to open, or cleaning something at the end of the night. For example- when I opened Canada restrooms I would get the Le Cellier and Refreshment Port restrooms ready to open.

I think that is everything. If you have anymore questions, just let me know.:)

And to answer your other question- I can't be positive. But it is pretty likely, since they always need people for custodial (and also QSFB).

[MarinaAndCharlie]

Ah, ok. Well, for my two:
Character Attendant
The schedule tells you which park and character you will be working with (though you may not always know the exact character, as some spots have more then one).

Is there a costuming place at each park? Will your schedule just say "Camp Minnie Mickey, AK"... stuff like that?

Breaks are given by a breaker (an attendant who specifically gives breaks to people). However, there are certain cases where you will go in with the character.

There are different places where you work- regular meets, dining, shows. Regular meets are the basic get in line and meet a character.

How often would you say you got a break and usually for how long? Do you go back and forth between meet and greets, restaurants and shows in one day or do they have different CMs for each location?


There are different places where you work- regular meets, dining, shows. Regular meets are the basic get in line and meet a character. And the big one- assisting the character(s).

So besides working the line, what do you do for the characters? Help them down stairs and stuff? I don't quite understand this...

P.S. Character attendant sounds really fun.


Custodial
Streets is where you would walk around with the pan and broom sweeping up trash, taking care of the garbage cans, and major guest interaction (taking pictures, answering questions, giving directions, ect).

Do you have to 1)carry the trashbags somewhere or 2)roll the trash cans (like trashbins outside of your house) or do you 3)have a cart to put them on or what? and I remember hearing something about trash vacuum tubes, do you put the trash in there or a dumpster?

Thanks for all your help!

[Joanna71985]

Is there a costuming place at each park? Will your schedule just say "Camp Minnie Mickey, AK"... stuff like that?

Yes. Each park has their own costuming place. MK is back at the CM parking, Epcot and DHS are in the park, but AK is totally in a different spot. Thank goodness attendants get their costumes with performers. Yes. That is what it says.

How often would you say you got a break and usually for how long? Do you go back and forth between meet and greets, restaurants and shows in one day or do they have different CMs for each location?

Breaks usually were 20 minutes long. Usually there were 2 per shift.

No. There are different CMs per shift. You stay in your area all day (unless you are pulled).

So besides working the line, what do you do for the characters? Help them down stairs and stuff? I don't quite understand this...

P.S. Character attendant sounds really fun.

You keep an eye on them, give them a pen if they need it, help them out with holding an item if they can't hold and sign at the same time, stuff like that. They may also need some help backstage.

Oh it is!!

Do you have to 1)carry the trashbags somewhere or 2)roll the trash cans (like trashbins outside of your house) or do you 3)have a cart to put them on or what? and I remember hearing something about trash vacuum tubes, do you put the trash in there or a dumpster?

Thanks for all your help!

You have a bin for putting the garbage bags in. The tubes are only at MK.

You're welcome.:)

[americangeiko]

Day in the Life of a BBB Hostess (or Fairy Godmother in Training):

(Let me say that I worked the CC Boutique when it first opened, and the DTD & CC Boutique have some differences in operation. I also know that rules & regulations were still being ironed-out while I was there so some of this info might be obsolete by now.)

You know your schedule about 2 wks out, but as with all roles you're encouraged to check and make certain that your schedule is correct on the Portal. (I had a few times mine changed at the last minute, and if I hadn't had a print out of the old one, I would've gotten points taken off for tardiness.)

You'll arrive at MK, take the bus in, go through the Corridor, clock-in, and either go to the locker room (to stowe your purse, etc), or straight to the Boutique which is up 3 flights of stairs. Once you enter the stock room, you'll read any "notices" on the back of the door to the boutique. This can be changes in policy, shortage of princess gowns, etc. Your schedule (there's a spare in the stockroom) will either list you as "Podium" or "Chair" for the day. This rotates out for everyone, but you'll predominantely be working a 'chair'.

The 'Chair' position is where you'll be styling hair, and doing make-up. Depending on how many FGITs are available you'll either be doing hair and make-up by yourself, or with a helper FGIT. During this entire time you're expected to do all the above AND interact with the 'princess' and her guests. There will also be a roaming photopass photographer who'll be taking pictures of the whole transformation. The whole process takes about a 1/2 hour.

After you're finished, you'll escort your 'princess' (all boutique patrons are 'princesses' unless they're boys), to the check-out, and wash your hands. The helper FGIT will take your chair, clean it, and take another 'princess'. When you come back you'll go to the nearest chair that hasn't had make-up done, and assist them. And continue the cycle. If you work and open to a close, you could be doing as many as 22 'princesses'. The whole boutique does about 224 girls a day. We, like Cinderella's Royal Table across the Breezeway, are BOOKED 180 days in advance.

The 'Podium' position has one main spot, and 2+ helper positions. The main spot will have you greeting incoming 'princesses', verifying their reservation, and checking them in. We do not do bookings, or cancellations for any day other than that day, at the boutique. It's all handled via the hotline. They'll generally be handed a pager, and then asked to take a seat. The pagers only work around the castle, so the waiting area generally fills up quick. Occasionally we'll take 'walk-ins', but those slots generally fill up within the first hour the boutique opens. This is very problematic as you'll find a lot of guests don't understand the reservation system, and will show up trying to get their kids in at 3pm, only to find out that we're booked solid for the rest of the day. I've had a few people blow up on me because of this.

Side Note: This position is *very* hectic, and managers will often regulate who gets this role as many FGITs can't do it, or don't want to.

The 2 helpers will be responsible for walking 'princesses' to their FGIT who'll be doing their makeover. And for helping 'princesses' pick out their gown and get changed into it. The helpers are also supposed to assist with the main podium position as needed, and will often have to procure from other shops princess gowns, wands, crowns, etc as we frequently run out. You'll also need to monitor that people who aren't with a 'princess' don't wander about the boutique (there's a rope between the entry way and the boutique), as space is incredibly limited in there! There's also the issue of people taking pictures of other people's kids. It's not allowed without the parent's permission, and we do have the right to request any guest to delete the photo that they've taken, and to leave the boutique if necessary.

There's about 4 different shifts: an 'opening' (either 7 or 8am) or 'closing' (1-2pm till close), mid-day (come in for about 6 hrs sometime during the day), or 'all day' (7-8am till close). You won't have control over your schedule, and if it's a holiday weekend, or a busy weekend you *will* be working 40+ hrs. You can't work shifts at another BBB, but picking up shifts in your area was never a problem when I was there. You will have to stock your 'cart' (supply station) before opening and after closing, and as needed throughout the day, but the cashiers generally do the heavy stocking. There is some cleaning involved as there's nobody that comes in to really clean the boutique, but it's nothing more than cleaning your mirror, chair, etc. You'll also be able to pick up your tips (we're on tip share) at the end of your shift, or before the beginning of your shift. Generally there's also a meeting in the morning, or after close, that will discuss any issues that's come up that day.

All your co-workers will be female, and there'll often be visiting management from throughout the park and company who'll drop in from time to time. Face Characters, like the Fairy Godmother, will occasionally come in if it isn't busy, and do a 5-10 min photo op with the 'princesses' in the room. Anastasia, Drusilla, and Lady Tremaine are banned from the boutique, but Prince Charming will occasionally pop in, if the Fairy Godmother is unavailable.

There's no seasonal option for this position as the hair stylist training requires you to be in the boutique atleast every 2 months to keep up with the skills you've learned. You will have the opportunity to see the Castle Suite as all Castle workers do. Opportunities to go FT after your CP are an option, and considering the waiting list to go FT in the BBB, I'd recommend offering to take the position at the beginning of your CP if you want it. (Aka, let them know you're interested ASAP as you can always transfer in 6 months.)

To be honest, I hated the position the first 2 weeks I was there because I had a difficult time in training. After wards, I grew to love the role, and I still keep contact with many of the FGITs from my CP-both the FTs, PTs, and the CPs.

If there's anything I didn't answer (I'll be surprised), reply and I'll fill in the blanks.

[Scully12]

I was in attraction at the Great Movie Ride for my program. We had to learn a 50 page spiel, learn blocking for the spiel, learn how to operate a vehicle, learn how to speak and operate at the same time, load, unload, great guests, give directions, basic clean up of attraction area, open the ride, close the ride, how to evacuate the ride, chemical safety, fire safety, deal with guest situations(stupid guests), and basic guest service and recovery...


I worked an average of 45 hours a week, sometimes as many as 70 hours in one week. I had many 12 hours days, coming in as early as 7:30 in the morning and leaving as late as 2am.

the positions were(in the rotation order):
Odd Rotation
1st set "A" and 1st set "B" (This is driving the vehicle and spieling position)
Front Usher (outside greeting)
3rd set "A" and 3rd set "B"
Head Usher(greeting inside, and monitoring handicap line)
5th set "A" and 5th set "B"
ADB (vehicle load and send off)

Even Rotation
2nd Set "A" and 2nd set "B"
Casting director(in charge of opening doors to begin loading)
4th Set "A" and 4th Set "B"
Valet(stroller parking outside)
ADA (vehicle load)

There are a few extra positions thrown in if we have a lot of people working that day. Basically you come into work and sign in. Once you sign in you click a button and get an assignment. The computer assigns you one of these and you go where you're supposed to. You send whoever is already there back for their break or for them to sign out and go home. You then are a part of that rotation until someone comes to give you a break or bump you out. If you're lucky you will get an assignment called Magical Moment or Take Five. These mean you are "supposed" to talk to guests and backdoor them onto the ride or something like that....most of the time we would just sit there for the 15 minutes on the break room before we had to sign back in :)

THe most fun times were evacuations. If the ride had"technical problems" we would have to evac the guests, many times while they're in the middle of the track on the ride. We'd have to shut the ride down for a little while so we got a break. The GMR building is also considered a shelter for severe weather and the likes so if its bad enough we shut down ride operation and let people just sit around. Also giving us a break!

We were supposed to get breaks every 2 hours. For ever two hours of work you get a 15 minute break and after 6 hours you get a half hour. So for a 6 hour shift you would get two 15 minute breaks, but for a 6.5 hour shift you'd get one 15 and one 30. For, say, a 12 hour shift you would be scheduled for four 15s and a 30.

We wore black polyester mom pants (high waisted, pleated fronts, wiiiide hip area, narrows at ankles...BAD), Red polyester, double layer shirts that do not breath in Florida weather designed to look chinese-ish (the chinese button hooks were forever unpopping, a red hat to be worn outside, and a long sleeved gray polyester jacket only worn inside on the dock area. We wore black shoes and a black belt with gold buckle to complete the look

It was fun while it lasted...But I would not want to work there full time. I don't now how people can stand it for years at a time.

[WhateverLolaWants]

I was selected for Housekeeping for Spring 09, which might turn out to be a mistake, I am still waiting for response from my recruiter, but I was just wondering if anyone on here had ever done it? I know what the job entails, that's common sense, but I just wanted to see if anyone had done the role and what they thought of it. Thanks!

I've mostly heard negative opinions on housekeeping. Obviously it's a physical job, though that's not something that bothers a lot of people. My biggest concern for CPs doing housekeeping is the fact that there are not a lot of you. I think it would be hard to make friends when the rest of your fellow CMs are middle aged women.

[Ashley022489]

I've mostly heard negative opinions on housekeeping. Obviously it's a physical job, though that's not something that bothers a lot of people. My biggest concern for CPs doing housekeeping is the fact that there are not a lot of you. I think it would be hard to make friends when the rest of your fellow CMs are middle aged women.

Thanks for the response! Turns out that there was a mistake with my acceptance letter and I was actually chosen for Hospitality, not Housekeeping.I'm sure that I would have been able to handle Housekeeping since I have done it before but I know that I am going to enjoy my program much more now that I am actually going to be in a role that I am interested in and that has more CPers.

[Climber656]

I was in attraction at the Great Movie Ride for my program. We had to learn a 50 page spiel, learn blocking for the spiel, learn how to operate a vehicle, learn how to speak and operate at the same time, load, unload, great guests, give directions, basic clean up of attraction area, open the ride, close the ride, how to evacuate the ride, chemical safety, fire safety, deal with guest situations(stupid guests), and basic guest service and recovery...


I worked an average of 45 hours a week, sometimes as many as 70 hours in one week. I had many 12 hours days, coming in as early as 7:30 in the morning and leaving as late as 2am.

the positions were(in the rotation order):
Odd Rotation
1st set "A" and 1st set "B" (This is driving the vehicle and spieling position)
Front Usher (outside greeting)
3rd set "A" and 3rd set "B"
Head Usher(greeting inside, and monitoring handicap line)
5th set "A" and 5th set "B"
ADB (vehicle load and send off)

Even Rotation
2nd Set "A" and 2nd set "B"
Casting director(in charge of opening doors to begin loading)
4th Set "A" and 4th Set "B"
Valet(stroller parking outside)
ADA (vehicle load)

There are a few extra positions thrown in if we have a lot of people working that day. Basically you come into work and sign in. Once you sign in you click a button and get an assignment. The computer assigns you one of these and you go where you're supposed to. You send whoever is already there back for their break or for them to sign out and go home. You then are a part of that rotation until someone comes to give you a break or bump you out. If you're lucky you will get an assignment called Magical Moment or Take Five. These mean you are "supposed" to talk to guests and backdoor them onto the ride or something like that....most of the time we would just sit there for the 15 minutes on the break room before we had to sign back in :)

THe most fun times were evacuations. If the ride had"technical problems" we would have to evac the guests, many times while they're in the middle of the track on the ride. We'd have to shut the ride down for a little while so we got a break. The GMR building is also considered a shelter for severe weather and the likes so if its bad enough we shut down ride operation and let people just sit around. Also giving us a break!

We were supposed to get breaks every 2 hours. For ever two hours of work you get a 15 minute break and after 6 hours you get a half hour. So for a 6 hour shift you would get two 15 minute breaks, but for a 6.5 hour shift you'd get one 15 and one 30. For, say, a 12 hour shift you would be scheduled for four 15s and a 30.

We wore black polyester mom pants (high waisted, pleated fronts, wiiiide hip area, narrows at ankles...BAD), Red polyester, double layer shirts that do not breath in Florida weather designed to look chinese-ish (the chinese button hooks were forever unpopping, a red hat to be worn outside, and a long sleeved gray polyester jacket only worn inside on the dock area. We wore black shoes and a black belt with gold buckle to complete the look

It was fun while it lasted...But I would not want to work there full time. I don't now how people can stand it for years at a time.

Was the spiel hard to learn? I am pretty sure I am either getting my position in either Hospitality or Attractions. And if it is Attractions, My interviewer seemed very interested in my ability to do a spiel ride. I told her I would be very comfortable doing this and would love to. I am just interested in the spiel mostly and if this is a good job.

[Scully12]

Was the spiel hard to learn? I am pretty sure I am either getting my position in either Hospitality or Attractions. And if it is Attractions, My interviewer seemed very interested in my ability to do a spiel ride. I told her I would be very comfortable doing this and would love to. I am just interested in the spiel mostly and if this is a good job.

It was really easy for me. I did theater all through high school so I was used to memorizing. You only get 2 maybe 3 days t learn it while you also have a million different things going through your head about vehicles, and block points, and shift points, and driving and other position so you have to be a fast learner.

[Climber656]

It was really easy for me. I did theater all through high school so I was used to memorizing. You only get 2 maybe 3 days t learn it while you also have a million different things going through your head about vehicles, and block points, and shift points, and driving and other position so you have to be a fast learner.

I did theater too! I was principle sound designer and coordinator for 3 years. I did 13 shows while! I was also a marching band kid, so memorizing is not hard at all for me! I am kinda excited about it! I hope I get either GMR or another spiel ride. I am kinda thinking I will get hospitality though...

[Ylushi]

Hopefully I will only have a very, VERY small thing to memorize. Even with marching band I am a horrible memorizer. Course I didn't like marching band so that could have contributed to it haha.

[Joanna71985]

Hopefully I will only have a very, VERY small thing to memorize. Even with marching band I am a horrible memorizer. Course I didn't like marching band so that could have contributed to it haha.

Don't worry. There are only a few roles with a big script to memorize (GMR, JC, and KS are the big ones. There may be a couple more that I'm missing).

[Sorahana]

I'm posting again since the last time I posted here was DURING my CP. Now I can properly reflect since it's after my CP.

I work at Expedition:Everest in Animal Kingdom. I was in Attractions. While I was there I got stressed out and was miserable. I was not used to all the hours at first, but then I got used to it. For the most part I had a lot of fun working there. I liked being able to spiel to guests when they got off the ride or were in line(short and sweet, didn't have to memorize, and you could ad-lib in them as long as you said the basics of it and you stayed "in character"), I liked talking to kids who were afraid to ride and in most cases they went on and LOVED IT, and I loved doing "magical moments" for guests. I miss it so much =(.

Technicality wise, you have to put people into rows on the train, collect fastpasses, supervise the fastpass machines, measure kids, check trains for lost and found, check lapbars, and several other jobs. It was fun :wizard: .

[orangekid13]

I don't remember what KS stands for...

[Joanna71985]

I don't remember what KS stands for...

Kilimanjaro Safari

[Scully12]

Don't worry. There are only a few roles with a big script to memorize (GMR, JC, and KS are the big ones. There may be a couple more that I'm missing).

Inoventions has a script. More so than GMR. And for all those wishing for GMR...it's a looooot of work. It was extremely stressful and a lot of times I dreaded going into work. Just be prepared.

[ozzierocks]

Hey, I wanted to see if anyone had a day in the life experience of QSFB.

Either outside carts or inside restaurants. also is it a tipped role?

[Joanna71985]

Hey, I wanted to see if anyone had a day in the life experience of QSFB.

Either outside carts or inside restaurants. also is it a tipped role?

I do. I did QSFB last summer, at Casey's Corner. There were 2 different places to work there- BoH (Back of House) and FoH (Front of House). The BoH is the kitchen. If you are back there you are prepping the food, working the friers, putting stuff together, cleaning, ect. The FoH is the actual restaurant (where the guests are). If you are in the FoH you are working the registers, filling orders, stocking the areas, cleaning the condiment areas, ect. It was extremely fast-paced. But I loved the people I worked with.

QSFB is not a tipped position.

[fall08CP]

Ah, ok. Well, for my two:
Character Attendant
Character Attendant is a pretty simple role. You know your schedule 2 weeks in advance (though it can change). The schedule tells you which park and character you will be working with (though you may not always know the exact character, as some spots have more then one). Unlike other roles where they can bring home 5 costumes at a time, character attendants can't. This means you have to go to costuming everytime.
I'm wondering if this has changed because I've seen tons of CPs in Character attendant costumes on the bus lately.:confused3 I didn't notice it over the summer but more recently I've seen it quite frequently.

[fall08CP]

Thanks for the response! Turns out that there was a mistake with my acceptance letter and I was actually chosen for Hospitality, not Housekeeping.I'm sure that I would have been able to handle Housekeeping since I have done it before but I know that I am going to enjoy my program much more now that I am actually going to be in a role that I am interested in and that has more CPers.

Depending on where you work there might not be a lot of CPs even in hospitality. I work at a deluxe and there are only 2 American CPs chosen. A lot of the staff is full time and been there for years. The values are different- lots of CPs, but DVC/Deluxe are more competitive (in the sense that few people get put there). Hopefully you'll love it though. The hours are insane but it's indoors and the FT people are fabulous.

[Joanna71985]

I'm wondering if this has changed because I've seen tons of CPs in Character attendant costumes on the bus lately.:confused3 I didn't notice it over the summer but more recently I've seen it quite frequently.

Unless it changed since Aug (when I last worked), they shouldn't have been. That's why character attendants get such a long walk time (to get changed and return everything to costuming).