Seasonal Universal Parade Balloon Lead

Be Part of an Amazing Story

Macy’s is more than just a store. We’re a story. One that’s captured the hearts and minds of America for more than 160 years. A story about innovations and traditions…about inspiring stores and irresistible products…about the excitement of the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks, and the wonder of the Thanksgiving Day Parade. We’ve been part of memorable moments and milestones for countless customers and colleagues. Those stories are part of what makes this such a special place to work.

Job Overview

The Seasonal Universal Parade Balloon Lead will work to prepare Balloons for the “Universal Holiday Parade Experience Featuring Macy’s,” performing all tasks necessary to carry out this event.

What You Will Do

• Leads various tasks associated with preparing the Parade for its run, including but not limited to Inflation, Set Up, Pilot Trainings, Rehearsals
• Acts as liaison between Universal Parade and Macy’s
• Leads post-parade pilot meetings, where feedback and areas for improvement are provided based on flights for the night
• Knowledge and experience in piloting balloons in both NYC and Universal Parade and understand how to adapt to different flying situations
• Understands how to position balloon handlers to each balloon’s needs and how to communicate those needs to the pilots
• Acts as extension of Balloon Studio management, performing onsite functions related to the Universal Parade and provides reports to Balloon Studio Manager regarding progress
• Inflates, Repairs, tests, paints and maintains Balloons
• Acts as a crewmember for installations and inflations
• Participates in the “Universal Holiday Parade Experience Featuring Macy’s” as a member of the Inflation Team and Staff
• Collaborates with Macy’s staff on methods of project planning and implementation
• Performs other tasks and duties as assigned by Balloon Studio Manager
• Regular, dependable attendance & punctuality

Skills You Will Need

Balloon Operations & Piloting: Knowledge of balloon piloting, balloon operations, and inflation procedures, including experience working with helium-filled balloons and supporting safe flight preparation and execution.

Inflation Systems & Balloon Handling: Ability to perform balloon inflation activities, monitor inflation processes, and handle balloons and related equipment in accordance with established operational and safety standards.

Aerodynamics & Flight Dynamics: Understanding of ballooning principles, flight dynamics, and basic aerodynamics, with the ability to apply technical knowledge to support flight performance and operational decision-making.

Technical Drawing Interpretation: Ability to read, interpret, and work from scale drawings, technical specifications, patterns, and basic inflation instructions to ensure accurate execution of designs and operational requirements.

Fabrication & Construction Skills: Experience with sewing, patterning, fabrication, or related construction techniques preferred, with the ability to support the creation, modification, and maintenance of balloon components and structures.

Precision & Manual Craftsmanship: Strong attention to detail with the ability to perform highly precise handwork across varying scales, materials, and project requirements while maintaining quality standards.

Communication & Team Collaboration: Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively, follow direction, and contribute positively within a team-oriented environment.

Adaptability & Problem Solving: Ability to work in a dynamic environment, respond to changing operational needs, troubleshoot issues, and maintain a positive attitude while supporting team objectives.

Who You Are

• Previous experience in balloon operations, aviation, fabrication, sewing, patterning, event production, or a related technical field is required.
• Possess basic mathematical and analytical skills, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, with the ability to read, interpret, and work from scale drawings and technical specifications. 
• Self-directed and capable of working independently with routine supervision while demonstrating sound judgment, strong problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking skills. 
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills, a positive attitude, and the flexibility to adapt to changing business and operational needs. 
• This position involves regular walking, standing, sitting, hearing, and communicating, and may occasionally require stooping, kneeling, crouching, climbing, and other physical activities associated with balloon operations and event support. 
• Must be able to lift, push, pull, and move materials and equipment weighing 25 to 50 pounds for extended periods and under varying environmental and operational conditions. 
• Able to work a flexible schedule based on department and business needs, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and varied schedules during peak event seasons. 
• Ability and willingness to travel as required to support operational, training, event, and production needs required.

What We Can Offer You

Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage and a 401(k) match to invest in your future. Prioritize your well-being with paid time off and eight paid holidays. Grow your career with continuous learning and leadership development. Plus, build community by joining one of our Colleague Resource Groups and make a difference through our volunteer opportunities.

Some additional benefits we offer include: 

• Merchandise discounts 
• Performance-based incentives 
• Annual merit review 
• Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice

Access the full menu of benefits offerings here.

About Us

This is a great time to join Macy’s! Whether you’re helping a customer find the perfect gift, streamlining operations in one of our distribution centers, enhancing our online shopping experience, buying in-style and on-trend merchandise to outfit our customers, or designing a balloon for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, we offer unique opportunities to be part of some of the most memorable moments in people’s lives. 

Join us and help write the next chapter in our story - apply today!

This job description is not all-inclusive. Macy's, Inc. reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. Macy's, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment. 

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