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Nails Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HAMMER & NAILS

Nail Technician

Laguna Niguel, CA

$19 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * No Exposure to harsh chemicals * No Polish, Gel or Acrylic - Only Natural Finish

HAMMER & NAILS

Nail Technician

Laguna Niguel, CA

$19 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * No Exposure to harsh chemicals * No Polish, Gel or Acrylic - Only Natural Finish

HAMMER & NAILS

Nail Technician

Laguna Niguel, CA · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * No Exposure to harsh chemicals * No Polish, Gel or Acrylic - Only Natural Finish

Prestige NAILS AND SPA

Nail Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Remove previously applied polish and apply new polish * Apply artificial and gel nails

Prestige NAILS AND SPA

Nail Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Remove previously applied polish and apply new polish * Apply artificial and gel nails

Prestige NAILS AND SPA

Nail Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Remove previously applied polish and apply new polish * Apply artificial and gel nails

Prestige NAILS AND SPA

Nail Technician

Escondido, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Remove previously applied polish and apply new polish * Apply artificial and gel nails

Prestige NAILS AND SPA

Nail Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Remove previously applied polish and apply new polish * Apply artificial and gel nails

Prestige NAILS AND SPA

Nail Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Remove previously applied polish and apply new polish * Apply artificial and gel nails

Hammer and Nails Southbay

Nail Technician

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Maintain a clean workspace and properly sanitized equipment * Team tasks to maintain ...

Hammer and Nails Southbay

Nail Technician

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Maintain a clean workspace and properly sanitized equipment * Team tasks to maintain ...

Hammer and Nails Southbay

Nail Technician

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Evaluate each client's nails and recommend nail care and treatment * Clean and shape fingernails and toenails * Maintain a clean workspace and properly sanitized equipment * Team tasks to maintain ...

Hammer and Nails Echo Park

Nail Technician

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$19 - $31/hr

Hammer & Nails - Echo Park is a dedicated grooming lounge for men, offering a premium experience in a relaxed, private setting. We're seeking a detail-oriented Nail Technician to deliver high-quality ...

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All JobsNails JobsNails Jobs in California

Nails information

See California salary details

$7

$20

$31

How much do nails jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for nails in California is $20.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nail technician?

To thrive as a Nail Technician, you need proficiency in manicures, pedicures, nail art, and sanitation practices, typically supported by a cosmetology or nail technician license. Familiarity with tools such as electric files, UV lamps, and various nail enhancement systems is essential. Attention to detail, creativity, strong interpersonal skills, and customer service set standout professionals apart. These skills ensure client satisfaction, safety, and the ability to build a loyal clientele in a competitive beauty industry.

What is the difference between Nails vs Manicurist?

AspectNailsManicurist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification required, but certifications in nail technology are commonRequires state licensing and certification in nail technology
Work EnvironmentSalons, spas, beauty clinicsSalons, spas, beauty clinics
Industry UsageRefers to the nails themselves or the act of applying nail enhancementsRefers to the professional performing nail services
Common Search/ComparisonPeople searching for nail services or nail carePeople seeking professional nail technicians or careers in nail styling

While "Nails" generally refers to the nails themselves or nail care services, a "Manicurist" is a trained professional who provides these services. The two are closely related, but "Nails" is more about the service or the product, whereas "Manicurist" describes the person performing the service.

What is a nail technician?

Nail technicians are beauty professionals who specialize in the care and grooming of fingernails and toenails. They provide services such as manicures, pedicures, nail shaping, cuticle care, and the application of nail polish, gel, or acrylic enhancements. Nail technicians may also offer nail art, repairs, and hand or foot massages. They follow strict sanitation practices to ensure client safety and often work in salons, spas, or as independent contractors.

What are some common challenges nail technicians face in managing client expectations and how can they address them?

Nail technicians often encounter clients with specific requests or inspiration photos that may not be achievable due to nail health, shape, or available products. Clear communication is key—explaining what is possible based on the client’s natural nails and offering alternative solutions helps manage expectations. Additionally, staying updated on trends and technical skills allows technicians to offer realistic advice and maintain client satisfaction. Building trust through professionalism and honesty ensures repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.

What jobs can you work with nails?

Jobs related to nails include nail technicians, manicurists, and pedicurists who provide nail care services in salons, spas, or independently. These roles typically require training or certification in nail technology and involve skills in manicure, pedicure, and nail art. Other related jobs include salon managers and beauty consultants who oversee or promote nail services.
What are popular job titles related to Nails jobs in California? For Nails jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nails jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Nails jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Nails jobs? Cities in California with the most Nails job openings:
Nails jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nails job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,574 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Nail Technician

HAMMER & NAILS

Laguna Niguel, CA

$19 - $22/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Hammer & Nails rating

4.4

Company rating: 4.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 41 rated hair and beauty

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Competitive Hourly Pay
  • Career Growth Opportunities 
  • Fun and Energetic Environment 
  • Discount on Products and Services 
Job Summary
We are looking for a skilled Nail Technician to join our team! As a nail technician, you will provide manicures, pedicures, and other nail care services and treatments to our valued Male customers. In addition, you will assess each customer’s individual needs and recommend appropriate products, services, and methods of care. Nail technician responsibilities may include applying gel and acrylic nails, creating nail art, shaping, and polishing. If you are skilled in nail art techniques and committed to providing clients with exceptional service, we want to hear from you! 

Responsibilities 
  • Evaluate each client’s nails and recommend nail care and treatment
  • Clean and shape fingernails and toenails
  • No Exposure to harsh chemicals
  • No Polish, Gel or Acrylic - Only Natural Finish
  • Maintain a clean workspace and properly sanitized equipment
  • Provide hand and foot massages
Qualifications
  • Previous experience as a manicurist or nail technician
  • Skilled in a range of nail techniques, including gel manicures, French manicures, and airbrushing
  • Up-to-date on the latest trends in cosmetology and nail technology
  • Strict adherence to sanitation and sterilization procedures
  • Certification in cosmetology or nail art or a state nail technician license is required
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills

What Hammer & Nails employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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