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Colorist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Douglas J Institutes & Salons

Colorist

Okemos, MI · On-site

Description: About Our Company: Douglas and Sharon Weaver started the Douglas J family of companies in 1967 with five employees and a passion for the Salon/Spa industry. They wanted to build a ...

Douglas J Institutes and Salons

Colorist

Okemos, MI · On-site

About Our Company: Douglas and Sharon Weaver started the Douglas J family of companies in 1967 with five employees and a passion for the Salon/Spa industry. They wanted to build a location that could ...

Walmart

Health & Beauty TA

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$14 - $27/hr

Hourly Wage: $14 - $27 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance ...

Walmart

Health & Beauty TA

Shelby Township, MI · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

Hourly Wage: $15 - $28 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance ...

Walmart

Health & Beauty TA

Battle Creek, MI · On-site

$14 - $27/hr

Hourly Wage: $14 - $27 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance ...

Walmart

Health & Beauty TA

Livonia, MI · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

Hourly Wage: $15 - $28 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance ...

Walmart

Health & Beauty TA

Saline, MI · On-site

$15 - $28/hr

Hourly Wage: $15 - $28 per/hour *The actual hourly rate will equal or exceed the required minimum wage applicable to the job location. Additional compensation includes annual or quarterly performance ...

All JobsColorist JobsColorist Jobs in Michigan

Colorist information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$20

$33

How much do colorist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for colorist in Michigan is $20.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a colorist?

A colorist is a professional who specializes in altering and enhancing the color of images in film, television, photography, or print. In the context of film and video, colorists work in post-production to balance colors, adjust contrast, and create a specific mood or visual style as intended by the director or cinematographer. They use specialized software and equipment to ensure consistency and artistic quality across all footage. In the beauty industry, a colorist is a hair stylist who specializes in coloring hair using various techniques. The role requires a strong understanding of color theory, technical skills, and creative vision.

Is colorist a difficult job?

A colorist's job involves precise color correction and grading for film, television, or photography, requiring technical skills and an eye for detail. It can be challenging due to tight deadlines, the need for artistic judgment, and proficiency with software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere. Success often depends on experience, training, and the ability to work under pressure.

How much do professional colorists make?

Professional colorists typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Highly experienced or specialized colorists working in film, television, or high-end photography can earn over $100,000 per year. Many colorists also work freelance or as part of a production team, with earnings varying accordingly.

How does a colorist typically collaborate with directors and cinematographers during post-production?

A colorist works closely with directors and cinematographers to ensure that the final visual tone and mood of a project align with the creative vision. Collaboration often involves reviewing reference images, discussing desired looks, and making iterative adjustments during supervised color grading sessions. Clear communication and feedback are essential, as the colorist translates artistic intentions into technical adjustments using specialized software. This teamwork helps maintain consistency and enhances storytelling throughout the film or video.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Colorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Colorist, you need a deep understanding of color theory, visual storytelling, and post-production workflows, often supported by formal training or a degree in film, media, or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard color grading software such as DaVinci Resolve, Baselight, or Adobe Premiere Pro is essential, along with familiarity with various camera formats and LUTs. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate creatively with directors and cinematographers set top Colorists apart. These skills ensure that the final visual output meets artistic intent and technical standards, greatly impacting the overall quality and mood of the project.

What is the difference between Colorist vs Makeup Artist?

AspectColoristMakeup Artist
CredentialsHair coloring certifications, cosmetology licenseMakeup artistry certifications, cosmetology or esthetician license
Work EnvironmentSalons, hair studios, film setsBeauty salons, film sets, fashion shows
Industry UsageHair coloring and stylingFacial and body makeup application
Common Search IntentHair coloring techniques, salon careersMakeup techniques, beauty industry jobs

While both Colorists and Makeup Artists work in beauty and entertainment industries, Colorists specialize in hair coloring and styling, requiring cosmetology licenses and working mainly in salons or film sets. Makeup Artists focus on facial and body makeup, often working in beauty salons, fashion shows, or film productions. Their certifications and work environments overlap but serve different aesthetic purposes.

What is the job description of a colorist?

A colorist is responsible for adjusting and enhancing the color of film, video, or digital images to achieve a desired aesthetic or mood. They use specialized software and tools to correct color, improve image quality, and ensure visual consistency across scenes, often working closely with directors and cinematographers. Strong knowledge of color theory, image editing software, and attention to detail are essential for this role.

How do you become a colorist?

To become a colorist, you typically need a background in film, photography, or digital art, along with proficiency in color grading software such as DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio, and developing a strong understanding of color theory and technical skills are essential steps in the profession.
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What job categories do people searching Colorist jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Colorist jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Colorist jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Colorist job openings:
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Colorist jobs near you

Colorist

Douglas J Institutes & Salons

Okemos, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Description:

About Our Company:

Douglas and Sharon Weaver started the Douglas J family of companies in 1967 with five employees and a passion for the Salon/Spa industry. They wanted to build a location that could pride itself on exceeding the guests’ expectations with every Douglas J experience. Since the initial opening, Douglas J has gone through 50 years of growth, expansion and evolution. We offer a complete menu of services in hair design and color, skin care, nail therapy, and massage therapy. Our foundation and values remain the same; we consistently focus on delivering our guests the high-end experience they deserve.


We are proud to maintain a culture where our employees enjoy coming to work. We consistently promote and support a strong sense of unity, respect and passion. There are many opportunities at Douglas J for staff to participate in continuing education classes in order to continually grow their skills. We provide our employees opportunities to volunteer within their communities and give back. A comprehensive benefits package is offered to our employees to help maintain a healthy lifestyle. We strive to stay progressive in our industry by offering our employees a professional workplace where they feel supported and successful.

Requirements:

We’re seeking a licensed cosmetologist who is ready to jumpstart their career in Cosmetology! If you’re passionate about making your mark in our industry and becoming a master of customized hair color, this opportunity is for you! As an Emerging Artist in Hair Color you will focus on:


Learning to provide a thorough consultation to assess your guest’s ideal image while evaluating condition of hair, proper color formulation, and follow-up care.


Practicing your delivery of individualized services to achieve the guest’s ideal look using fine-tuned techniques.

Our skilled Art Directors and Educators will work one-on-one with you to develop your skills in:

  • Blow-Dry and Finishing Techniques
  • Strengthening your Foundational Color Skills
  • Advancing your color formulation knowledge while fine tuning your highlighting, balayage, all over color, and double process techniques

What we’re looking for:

  • State of Michigan Cosmetology License
  • Charismatic, approachable personality
  • Personal drive to advance your skills
  • Experience working with Aveda color and products

Apply