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Makeup Artist Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CADY

Studio Makeup Associate

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$19/hr

We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ... * Assist with studio operations, including check-in, check-out, and wardrobe support, as needed Job ...

Cady Studios, LLC

Studio Makeup Associate

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$19/hr

We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ... * Assist with studio operations, including check-in, check-out, and wardrobe support, as needed Job ...

CADY

Studio Makeup Associate

Herndon, VA · On-site

$21/hr

We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ... * Assist with studio operations, including check-in, check-out, and wardrobe support, as needed Job ...

Cady Studios, LLC

Studio Makeup Associate

Herndon, VA · On-site

$21/hr

We are seeking highly motivated Makeup Artists with outstanding client service skills and a strong ... * Assist with studio operations, including check-in, check-out, and wardrobe support, as needed Job ...

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Guest Experience Coordinator

Maryus, VA · On-site

$14/hr

Support the team of stylists and makeup artists to keep the bar running smoothly * Monitor and assist with inventory to ensure products are stocked and organized * Serve as a Membership Concierge by ...

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Makeup Artist Assistant information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$25

$66

How much do makeup artist assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for makeup artist assistant in Virginia is $25.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant makeup artist do?

An assistant makeup artist works under the supervision of a senior staff member as part of their on-the-job training. You can find work in a variety of venues, from a job at a salon to a support position on a photo shoot for a fashion model. Duties include making on set touch-ups with cosmetics to ensure that the makeup is flawless and fits the vision of the project. Positions also exist with modeling agencies and studios. The work is typically full-time, and you may need to travel to meet some clients. You can also find employment with upscale stores with a beauty department. You assist a customer and recommend ways to enhance their appearance.

What is a makeup artist assistant?

Makeup Artist Assistants are professionals who support makeup artists in preparing clients for events, photoshoots, film, or television. Their duties may include organizing makeup kits, cleaning brushes, prepping clients’ skin, and assisting with makeup application under the guidance of the lead artist. They also help maintain a clean workspace, manage schedules, and sometimes handle administrative tasks. This role is essential for ensuring that makeup sessions run smoothly and efficiently, providing valuable hands-on experience and learning opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career as a makeup artist.

What are the common responsibilities of a makeup artist assistant during a typical photo shoot or event?

As a Makeup Artist Assistant, you are often responsible for organizing and sanitizing makeup tools, preparing workstations, and ensuring all necessary products are readily available for the lead makeup artist. During shoots or events, you may help with makeup application touch-ups, manage schedules for models or clients, and assist in maintaining a clean and efficient workflow. Collaboration and clear communication with the lead artist and other team members, such as hairstylists and photographers, are essential to keep the process running smoothly.

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

To thrive as a Makeup Artist Assistant, you need a foundational knowledge of makeup application techniques, sanitation standards, and often a certificate from a cosmetology or makeup artistry program. Familiarity with cosmetic products, makeup brushes, and common tools, as well as experience using scheduling or inventory management systems, is highly beneficial. Strong attention to detail, excellent communication, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure smooth support for lead artists, maintain client satisfaction, and contribute to the overall success of makeup projects, especially in fast-paced environments.

What is the difference between Makeup Artist Assistant vs Makeup Artist?

AspectMakeup Artist AssistantMakeup Artist
CredentialsBasic cosmetology or makeup courses, on-the-job trainingAdvanced makeup certifications, portfolio, experience
Work EnvironmentAssist in makeup application, support team, backstage or studioPerform makeup applications independently, client-facing roles
Employer & Industry UsageSalons, studios, film sets, eventsFreelance, salons, fashion shows, film & TV productions

The Makeup Artist Assistant typically supports and assists makeup artists, focusing on preparation and support tasks. In contrast, a Makeup Artist performs independent makeup applications, working directly with clients or on productions. The assistant role is often an entry-level position, while the makeup artist role requires more experience and certifications.

How to be a makeup artist assistant with no experience?

To become a makeup artist assistant with no experience, focus on gaining basic knowledge of makeup application through online tutorials or courses, and develop good communication and organizational skills. Volunteering or offering to assist at local events or salons can provide practical experience and help build industry connections. Having a positive attitude and willingness to learn are important for entry-level roles in this field.

How to become a makeup artist assistant?

To become a makeup artist assistant, gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions is essential, along with developing skills in makeup application, sanitation, and client communication. Familiarity with makeup products, tools, and industry standards can improve job prospects, and some roles may require a cosmetology or beauty certification. Building a portfolio and networking within the industry can also help secure opportunities.
More about Makeup Artist Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Makeup Artist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Makeup Artist jobs in Virginia are:

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For Makeup Artist Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Makeup Artist Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Makeup Artist Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Makeup Artist Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Makeup Artist Assistant job openings:

Makeup Artist Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Makeup Artist Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,154 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Makeup Artist

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Williamsburg, VA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

SEASONAL POSITION
Busch Gardens is a place of thrills, fun and positive, lasting memories. And that's just what its like to work here! As a key member of our team, you'll play a major role in bringing happiness and excitement to people from around the world. If you're dedicated, dependable and driven to deliver exceptional guest service, this is a place for you!
Seasonal Makeup Artist - Howl-O-Scream
Busch Gardens Williamsburg
What you get to do:
• Applying makeup for our Howl-O-Scream Terror-Tories and monitor the makeup for the Maze performers. This includes all specialty makeup and may extend into Show areas.
• Applying makeup on approximately 10-15 people per shift, in 15-minute increments.
• Keeping a hygienic workspace including following all protocol for washing and caring for brushes, airbrushes and makeup products.
• Maintaining the approved HOS makeup designs.
• Performing daily operational duties to assist the costume department to include covering open positions, communicating makeup changes, schedule changes and other details, and sharing information with co-workers and management.
• May spend any additional time in the costume shop learning costume related skills.
• Responsibility for maintaining quality standards, through assigned tasks, special events and show positions.
• Maintaining Park cleanliness, maintenance, and safety standards through all assigned tasks.
• Other duties as assigned
What it takes to succeed:
• Prior make up application experience required.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather - This is an outdoor position.
• Must have FULL AVAILABILITY on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays from September 1-November 1, 2026.
• Minimum of 1-year general experience in a theatrical environment.
• Must have knowledge of stage makeup.
• Must have the ability to apply multiple, pre-designed looks.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
• Must be able to stand, sit or walk for extended periods up to five hours, several times per shift.
• Position requires lifting/pushing/pulling a minimum of 50 pounds several times throughout a scheduled shift, this includes overhead lifting.
• Must be able to work in environment with atmospheric effects (fog, smoke, haze, mist, bubble, snow, scents, etc.).
• Experience with wigs is a plus.
• Experience with costumes is a plus.
• SFX makeup application skills a plus
• A makeup portfolio is required for this position.
Compensation: 15.00 USD
The perks of the position: Ambassadors will enjoy a fun, fast-paced environment, and great teammates, as well as:
  • FREE park admission
  • Discounts on park admission tickets and passes for family and friends
  • Park discounts on food, merchandise, etc.
  • Scholarship opportunities
  • Exclusive employee events and giveaways

EEO Employer:
SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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