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Hair Extensions Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Salon Shiloh

Hair Stylist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.20/hr

A Message from the Owner, Tracy Podesta "I am looking for talented, professional, creative hair ... Cut/color/keratins/styling/extensions Qualifications * Successful completion of a cosmetology ...

Salon Shiloh

Hair Stylist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.20/hr

A Message from the Owner, Tracy Podesta "I am looking for talented, professional, creative hair ... Cut/color/keratins/styling/extensions Qualifications * Successful completion of a cosmetology ...

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Be Seen First

Full and Part Time Hair Stylist - Immediate Openings

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

Work confidently with diverse hair textures * Build confidence in round brushing, diffused styles, and updos * Grow into advanced services like keratin, extensions, and makeup * Stay creatively ...

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Be Seen First

Full and Part Time Hair Stylist - Immediate Openings

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$29 - $38/hr

Work confidently with diverse hair textures * Build confidence in round brushing, diffused styles, and updos * Grow into advanced services like keratin, extensions, and makeup * Stay creatively ...

Salon Shiloh

Hair Stylist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.20/hr

A Message from the Owner, Tracy Podesta "I am looking for talented, professional, creative hair ... Cut/color/keratins/styling/extensions Qualifications * Successful completion of a cosmetology ...

Drybar Shops

Drybar Shops

Naperville, IL · On-site

Drybar Hair Stylists / Cosmetologists Also Enjoy These Perks: * Hourly wages, tips and bonuses * Commissions on retail, braids, updos, extensions, & add-on services * Blowout, braid, and updo ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Elite Stylist

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Perform hair services including hair design, haircuts, color, texture, hair treatments, styling, updos, perms, blowouts, keratin treatments, extensions, makeup applications, brow services, and ear ...

Ulta Beauty

Elite Stylist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$1.9K/wk

Perform hair services including hair design, haircuts, color, texture, hair treatments, styling, updos, perms, blowouts, keratin treatments, extensions, makeup applications, brow services, and ear ...

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Elite Stylist

Schaumburg, IL

$1.9K/wk

Perform hair services including hair design, haircuts, color, texture, hair treatments, styling, updos, perms, blowouts, keratin treatments, extensions, makeup applications, brow services, and ear ...

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All JobsHair Extensions JobsHair Extensions Jobs in Chicago, IL

Hair Extensions information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$21

$33

How much do hair extensions jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for hair extensions in Chicago, IL is $21.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are hair extensions?

Hair extensions are artificial or natural hair strands that are added to a person's natural hair to increase length, volume, or add color. They come in various types, including clip-in, tape-in, sew-in, and fusion extensions, each with its own method of application. Extensions can be made from real human hair for a more natural look and feel, or synthetic fibers for a more affordable option. Proper installation and care are important to maintain the health of your natural hair and the longevity of the extensions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hair extensions specialist?

To thrive as a Hair Extensions Specialist, you need a solid understanding of hair types, extension methods, and professional cosmetology training or licensure. Familiarity with tools like micro-link pliers, bonding agents, and hair extension brands, as well as certifications in specific extension techniques, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to consult and communicate effectively with clients help set professionals apart. These skills ensure client satisfaction, safe application, and long-lasting, natural-looking results.

What are some common challenges hair extension specialists face when working with different hair types?

Hair extension specialists often encounter challenges when matching extensions to a client's natural hair texture, density, and color, especially with curly or fine hair. Ensuring a seamless blend while maintaining the health of the client's natural hair requires advanced knowledge of various application techniques and products. Additionally, specialists must be attentive to proper installation and removal methods to avoid damage, as well as educate clients on aftercare routines tailored to their specific hair type. Collaborating closely with clients to set realistic expectations and provide personalized solutions is key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Hair Extensions vs Hair Stylists?

AspectHair ExtensionsHair Stylists
CredentialsMay require specialized training or certification in extension applicationLicensed cosmetologists with comprehensive training in cutting, coloring, and styling
Work EnvironmentSalons, beauty clinics, or mobile services focused on hair enhancementSalons, spas, or freelance settings providing a range of hair services
Industry UsagePart of hair enhancement and beauty industryBroad role encompassing cutting, coloring, styling, and hair treatments
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Hair extensions focus specifically on adding length or volume to hair, often requiring specialized application skills. Hair stylists provide a wide range of hair services, including cutting, coloring, and styling. While both roles work within the hair industry, hair extensions are a specialized service offered by trained professionals, whereas hair stylists have broader expertise in hair care and styling.

What license do you need to do hair extensions?

To perform hair extensions professionally, most regions require a cosmetology license, which involves completing a state-approved training program and passing a licensing exam. Some areas may have specific certifications for extension techniques, but a general cosmetology license is typically necessary to legally offer hair extension services.

What qualifications do you need to do hair extensions?

To perform hair extensions professionally, individuals typically need a cosmetology license or certification, which involves completing a training program and passing a licensing exam. Additional specialized training in extension techniques and good manual dexterity are also important for quality work and client safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hair Extensions jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Hair Extensions jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Hair Extensions jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Hair Extensions jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hair Extensions jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Hair Extensions jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Hair Extensions jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hair Extensions job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,152 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Hair Stylist - Streamwood Target Plaza

Great Clips

Streamwood, IL

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Great Clips rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 507 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 42 rated hair and beauty

Job description

Join a locally owned Great Clips® salon team and enjoy a rewarding career doing what you love! Whether you’re an experienced stylist or a recent graduate, we're excited to meet you.

Hair Stylist – Great Clips
Love cutting hair? Love great tips and an even better team?
Earn $22–$30/hour (hourly pay + tips + productivity + product sales + bonuses).
- Flexible schedules
- PTO & Benefits
- 401(k) Match
- Paid training
- No clientele needed!
Bring your talent—we'll help you build the career. Apply today!

Why you’ll love it here

Great Clips salons give you everything you need to succeed:

  • Great, reliable hourly wage plus tips
  • Flexible scheduling with dependable retail hours
  • Job stability and a steady flow of customers driven by the marketing of the largest hair salon brand in the world — no self-marketing to find clients, booth rent or hidden fees, and no appointments required
  • Skill training, one-on-one technical coaching, and ongoing development through Great Clips University (GCU)
  • Exclusive discounts on professional salon tools and products
  • Potential for promotions to management, career growth and development opportunities, and recognition for great performance
  • Innovative salon technology — like Online Check-In and the Great Clips App — that helps take care of the busy work so you can focus on what you love most: delivering great haircuts
  • A team environment where stylists help each other succeed
  • Consistent income you can count on — without upselling pressure, commission stress or competition for walk-ins

Employee offerings like medical benefits and paid time off (PTO) may be available at certain locations.

What you bring to the team

To join the Great Clips salon team as a stylist or barber, you’ll need:

  • A valid Cosmetology or Barber License (requirements vary by state/province)
  • A passion for haircutting and helping customers look and feel their best
  • A desire to listen and make a difference through excellent customer service and genuine connections
  • A team-oriented attitude and desire to contribute to a great team culture
Who we are

As the world's largest salon brand, with over 4,400 locally owned and operated salons across the U.S. and Canada, Great Clips combines strong brand recognition, marketing, and support with a close-knit, team-oriented culture. We're passionate about cutting hair and providing great value for the whole family. Talented teams of skilled professionals, along with convenient hours and a great haircut experience, set us apart in our communities.

FAQ
  • Q: How do I apply for this job?
    A: It's easy to apply. Submit your application online, and a salon owner of your local Great Clips salon will review it and follow up with next steps. Each salon is independently owned, so timelines may vary.
  • Q: Do I need a license to work at Great Clips?
    A: Yes. You’ll need a valid Cosmetology or Barber License. Licensing requirements vary by state or province.
  • Q: Do I need to bring my own clientele?
    A: No. Great Clips salons provide a steady flow of customers, so you can focus on doing great hair without self-marketing or building a client list.
  • Q: Do Great Clips salons offer color services?
    A: No, Great Clips salons focus on haircutting. This allows stylists to work efficiently, build strong technical skills, and enjoy consistent, predictable days.

All Great Clips® salons are independently owned and operated by third-party franchisees. Franchisees, not Great Clips, Inc., are responsible for all hiring and personnel matters at their individual salons.

What Great Clips employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Great Clips

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Great Clips, Inc. was established in Minneapolis, Minnesota by founders David Rubenzer and Steve Lemmon in 1982, a time when most people received haircuts in one of three ways: in full-service hair salons, from barbershops or at home. As a stylist and businessman, David could see that the industry was changing. Customers were looking for a hair salon service that could fit their busy lifestyles and desire for value. To be part of that change – rather than find themselves competing with it – David and Steve developed the then-radical concept of a walk-in haircare salon with weekend and evening hours, offering customers a select list of services, and providing benefits for stylists. After the founders opened several successful hair salons, Ray Barton joined David and Steve as an owner in March 1983. With Ray's help and expertise in franchising, the trio set about growing the Great Clips hair salon brand. That success continues through today.

Industry

Personal services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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