Costume Assistant
Orange, CA · On-site
Makeup application * Hair and wig styling ADDITIONAL DUTIES * Additional duties as assigned ... backstage and infrequently climb a ladder or drive a car locally WORK ENVIRONMENT * The typical ...
Costume Assistant
Orange, CA · On-site
Makeup application * Hair and wig styling ADDITIONAL DUTIES * Additional duties as assigned ... backstage and infrequently climb a ladder or drive a car locally WORK ENVIRONMENT * The typical ...
Costume Assistant
Orange, CA · On-site
Makeup application * Hair and wig styling ADDITIONAL DUTIES * Additional duties as assigned ... backstage and infrequently climb a ladder or drive a car locally WORK ENVIRONMENT * The typical ...
Costume Assistant
Orange, CA · On-site
Makeup application * Hair and wig styling ADDITIONAL DUTIES * Additional duties as assigned ... backstage and infrequently climb a ladder or drive a car locally WORK ENVIRONMENT * The typical ...
Backstage Makeup Artist information
See salary details
$9.86 - $15.03
19% of jobs
$15.64 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$15.03 - $20.21
52% of jobs
$21.91 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$20.21 - $25.39
14% of jobs
$25.39 - $30.57
7% of jobs
$30.57 - $35.75
1% of jobs
$35.75 - $40.93
1% of jobs
$40.93 - $46.11
0% of jobs
$46.11 - $51.29
1% of jobs
$51.29 - $56.47
0% of jobs
$56.47 - $61.65
5% of jobs
$61.65 - $66.83
0% of jobs
$9
$25
$66
How much do backstage makeup artist jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for backstage makeup artist in the United States is $25.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a backstage makeup artist?
A Backstage Makeup Artist is responsible for applying makeup to performers during live events, theater productions, fashion shows, and other stage performances. They work behind the scenes, ensuring that makeup suits the character, lighting, and overall production style. Their tasks may include quick touch-ups, special effects makeup, and working under tight deadlines. They collaborate closely with costume designers, hairstylists, and directors to achieve the desired look.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a backstage makeup artist?
To thrive as a Backstage Makeup Artist, you need expertise in makeup techniques, color theory, and skin care, often supported by a cosmetology or makeup artistry certification. Familiarity with a variety of makeup products, brushes, airbrush systems, and sanitization protocols is essential. Excellent time management, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure will set you apart in fast-paced live event environments. These skills ensure flawless and timely makeup application, contributing to a successful production and positive backstage experience.
What are some common challenges faced by backstage makeup artists during live events or performances?
Backstage Makeup Artists often work under tight time constraints and must adapt quickly to last-minute changes in schedules or makeup requirements. Managing multiple performers, handling diverse skin types, and ensuring consistent looks despite challenging lighting conditions are common aspects of the job. Additionally, working in busy, sometimes cramped backstage areas requires strong organizational skills and effective communication with costume designers, hairstylists, and production staff. Overcoming these challenges is rewarding and helps foster a dynamic, collaborative environment that brings a show to life.
More about Backstage Makeup Artist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Backstage Makeup Artist jobs?
The most popular types of Backstage Makeup Artist jobs are:
What states have the most Backstage Makeup Artist jobs?
States with the most job openings for Backstage Makeup Artist jobs include:
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Job description
POSITION SUMMARY
Working alongside the Costume Coordinator, the Costume Assistant ensures that all aspects of costuming are in place for school theatrical productions on an as-needed basis. This includes costume construction, alterations, fittings, dress rehearsals, makeup and hair application, and the maintenance and care of costumes.
Reports to: Director of the Arts
Supervises: No supervisory duties
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
ADDITIONAL DUTIES
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualifications and competencies listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and physical demands required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position
Education
High School
Experience
Any satisfactory combination of education, experience, and training that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties listed
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND CLEARANCES
KEY COMPETENCIES
Knowledge
Skills and Abilities
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job description intends to provide a representative summary of the essential functions that will be required of positions given this title and should not be construed as a declaration of specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees will be assigned specific job-related duties through their hiring departments to address the needs of the school and changing business practices. Specific job-related duties assigned by hiring departments shall be consistent with the representative essential functions listed above and shall not be construed as expanding a particular position's role, scope, and FLSA status, or grade.
Working alongside the Costume Coordinator, the Costume Assistant ensures that all aspects of costuming are in place for school theatrical productions on an as-needed basis. This includes costume construction, alterations, fittings, dress rehearsals, makeup and hair application, and the maintenance and care of costumes.
Reports to: Director of the Arts
Supervises: No supervisory duties
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
- Make alterations and emergency repairs
- Assist with all quick changes
- Assist with all sewing
- Assist with the making of accessories if needed; crafting experience
- Laundering of costumes on-site
- Makeup application
- Hair and wig styling
ADDITIONAL DUTIES
- Additional duties as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualifications and competencies listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and physical demands required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position
Education
High School
Experience
Any satisfactory combination of education, experience, and training that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties listed
LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND CLEARANCES
- Cleared Background/Fingerprint check
- Valid CPR certifications
- Cleared TB assessment
- Completion of Ministry Safe Training
KEY COMPETENCIES
Knowledge
- Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in stage productions
Skills and Abilities
- Skilled in fabric construction and alteration
- Ability to use a sewing machine, scissors, steamers, and other common costuming items
- Intermediate to advanced sewing skills
- Ability to follow a sewing pattern
- Ability to teach students theatrical makeup application
- Wig styling with synthetic and human hair
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and irregular hours
- Establish and work within a budget
- Skilled at organizing, planning, and prioritizing work
- Computer Skills including PowerPoint and Excel
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
- Exhibits the highest level of Christian integrity his/her life reflects Christ-like morals, behavior, attitude, and leadership
- Integrates faith and prayer in the performance of job duties
- Foster a Christ-centered environment focused on Grateful Servanthood, Accountability, Compassion, and Collaboration, in alignment with our Guiding Principles
- A lifelong learner who models intellectual curiosity, self-reflection, and stewardship of talents
- An active member of a Christian church; the LCMS congregation preferred
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- The employee is regularly required to sit, speak clearly, and hear accurately, use hands to finger, handle, grasp, push, pull, or feel objects or controls, walk, and stand
- This position occasionally stands, moves about the campus; reaches with hands and arms above and below the waist; lifts, pushes, pulls, or carries up to 50 pounds for 5-10 feet views a computer monitor, bends, squats, climbs, kneels, or twists
- Requires the manual dexterity to use a sewing machine, scissors, and steamer, and have the stability and mobility to maneuver electrical cords and cables backstage and infrequently climb a ladder or drive a car locally
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- The typical work environment is climate office or theatre
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; risk of electrical shock; risk of radiation; and vibration
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate
This job description intends to provide a representative summary of the essential functions that will be required of positions given this title and should not be construed as a declaration of specific duties and responsibilities of any particular position. Employees will be assigned specific job-related duties through their hiring departments to address the needs of the school and changing business practices. Specific job-related duties assigned by hiring departments shall be consistent with the representative essential functions listed above and shall not be construed as expanding a particular position's role, scope, and FLSA status, or grade.
About Orange Lutheran High School
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