Santa University gives wannabe St. Nick’s and their helpers the know-how to charm the children and rule the mall at Christmas.

-- Submitted Photo Courtesy Of The Noerr Programs

One holiday-oriented job that hasn’t changed much over the years is the department store (and now mall) Santa Claus.

It’s not a desk job, and there is some lifting, but at least it’s indoor work.

Noerr Programs, the event digital-imaging provider that supplies Santas and worker elves to area malls including Christmas at Gaylord Opryland (Santa Experience and ICE!) and Opry Mills, is in the process of hiring location managers, assistant location managers and guest experience specialists, according to Ruth Rosenquist, director of public relations and cause marketing for Noerr.

The company already has its fleet of Santas ready to fan out, having held its 9th annual Santa University last summer.

During that event for Santas and Mrs. Clauses, the naturally bearded men are fitted for handcrafted designer suits, get snowy-white beard tips and learn the ins and outs of the Santa business.

Training sessions included sign language and prompts for working with special-needs visitors, understanding how NORAD Tracks Santa and healthy-living tips.

Want to see Santa University? Here’s your chance.