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Colorist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Colorist

Orland Park, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $16.20/hr

... Colorist Locations Orland Park Hourly salary 15 - 16.2 Compensation + Commission $15-$16.20 per hour plus the ability to earn over 50% commission

Colorist, Licensed Cosmetologist

Garland, TX ยท On-site

$34.40 - $36.50/hr

Licensed Colorist Licensed Colorists at Madison Reed Hair Color Bar are an essential part of our guest promise, delivering quality services and excellent guest care. You love beauty and hair color ...

Licensed Colorist Licensed Colorists at Madison Reed Hair Color Bar are an essential part of our guest promise, delivering quality services and excellent guest care. You love beauty and hair color ...

Colorist, Licensed Cosmetologist

Garland, TX ยท On-site

$34.40 - $36.50/hr

Licensed Colorist Licensed Colorists at Madison Reed Hair Color Bar are an essential part of our guest promise, delivering quality services and excellent guest care. You love beauty and hair color ...

Looking for experienced Colorist to join our Creative Team. Responsibilities include: * Provide excellent client care. * Greet clients upon arrival. * Train and develop color assistants while ...

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Colorist information

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$11

$23

$38

How much do colorist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for colorist in the United States is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.25 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.

How can I become a colorist?

To become a colorist, you typically need to develop skills in color grading and image correction using software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio, and obtaining relevant training or certifications can improve job prospects in film, television, or photography industries.

How much do professional colorists make?

Professional colorists in the film, television, and photography industries typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level colorists may start lower, while experienced specialists working on high-profile productions can earn higher salaries and may also receive freelance or project-based pay. Proficiency with color grading software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere is often essential for higher earnings.

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A colorist in the entertainment or advertising industry can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially with experience and a strong portfolio. High-end freelance colorists working on major projects or for prestigious clients often reach this income level without requiring a formal degree, relying instead on skills with editing software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere.

What is the job of a colorist?

A colorist is responsible for adjusting and enhancing the color of images or footage to achieve a desired visual style or mood. They use specialized software and tools to correct color balance, contrast, and saturation, often working closely with directors or photographers to ensure the final look meets artistic or production standards.

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.

More about Colorist jobs
What cities are hiring for Colorist jobs? Cities with the most Colorist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Colorist jobs? The most popular types of Colorist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Colorist jobs? The top employers for Colorist jobs are:
What states have the most Colorist jobs? States with the most job openings for Colorist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Colorist jobs? For Colorist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Colorist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 47% Full Time, and 53% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,641 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

$15 - $16.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Join Tricoci Salon | Spa
$2,000 Sign-On Bonus*
Our team is growing, and we're hiring Colorists at all stages of their career who are ready to refine their craft, grow their book, and thrive in a luxury salon environment.
Why Tricoci
At Tricoci, you'll step into a supportive, creative, and guest-focused culture built to elevate your technical skills and accelerate your career growth.
We offer:
  • Paid, advanced onboarding and customized color-focused training based on your skill level
  • Ongoing continuing education at no cost for license renewal
  • Free professional development including social media and personal branding support
  • A clear path for advancement across 13 Chicagoland locations
Schedule & Availability
We're looking for team members with flexibility to work approximately 4 days per week, including evenings, weekends, and holidays during peak business hours.
This role requires full commitment to our structured training program, designed to strengthen your color theory, formulation skills, consultation approach, and guest experience. Training takes place during weekday daytime hours and is a critical part of onboarding and long-term success at Tricoci.
Compensation & Benefits
  • $15-$16.20/hour base pay plus commission opportunities exceeding 50%
  • Commission on services, retail, and tenure rewards
  • No backbar fees
  • Employee discounts up to 90% on services and retail savings up to 50%
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and wellness benefits including EAP with 5 free sessions
What You'll Need
  • Active Illinois Cosmetology License
  • Passion for color work and delivering customized guest results
  • Strong communication skills and a guest-first mindset
  • Ability to stand or sit for extended periods
Locations
Arlington Heights, Bloomingdale, Chicago, Crystal Lake, Deerfield, Geneva, Libertyville, Naperville, Oakbrook, Orland Park, Schaumburg, Skokie, Vernon Hills
Department Salon Role Colorist Locations Orland Park Hourly salary 15 - 16.2 Compensation + Commission $15-$16.20 per hour plus the ability to earn over 50% commission