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On Set Makeup Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an HMUA (Hair & Makeup Artist) , you'll help create the polished, authentic, and camera-ready ... Support a Positive On-Set Experience Help talent feel comfortable, confident, and prepared before ...

Makeup artists are responsible for consulting with clients and creating custom looks based on their ... Working with costume designers, set designers and stylists to ensure consistency. * Having ...

Makeup artists are responsible for consulting with clients and creating custom looks based on their ... Working with costume designers, set designers and stylists to ensure consistency. * Having ...

Makeup Artist

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Experienced Makeup Artists Base pay + Tips + Commissions or commission only option. Are you a ... Provide professional makeup services for salon guests and on-location events (bridal, photoshoots ...

THE ROLE Hair and Makeup Artist Quince is seeking a highly creative and detail-oriented Hair ... all content On-Set Collaboration & Operations * Maintain a clean, organized, and hygienic ...

Makeup Artist

Homewood, AL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Experienced Makeup Artists Base pay + Tips + Commissions or commission only option Are you a ... Provide professional makeup services for salon guests and on-location events (bridal, photoshoots ...

Makeup Artist

Castro Valley, CA · On-site

$19.18/hr

Stay updated on the latest beauty trends and techniques What We're Looking For: * Proven experience as a makeup artist * Excellent communication and customer service skills * Ability to work flexible ...

Makeup Artist

Wyoming, MN · On-site

$14 - $21/hr

We strive on providing our attendees Minnesota's ultimate horror experience and a full night of entertainment. We are seeking to hire motivated Makeup Artists to join our team. Applicants with ...

Company pays hair and makeup $100; customers travel to the makeup artist, and Travel is paid $150 ... Makeup is to be done before photo sessions and during, depending on the job. * Must have their own ...

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On Set Makeup Artist information

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$9

$25

$66

How much do on set makeup artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for on set makeup artist in the United States is $25.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an on set makeup artist?

On set makeup artists are professionals who apply and maintain makeup for actors, models, or performers during live productions such as films, television shows, photo shoots, or events. Their responsibilities include creating looks that match the director’s vision, performing touch-ups between takes, and adapting makeup for different lighting or camera setups. They work closely with directors, actors, and other crew members to ensure continuity and consistency in appearance throughout production. On set makeup artists must be skilled in various techniques and be prepared to work long hours in fast-paced environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an on set makeup artist?

To thrive as an On Set Makeup Artist, you need a solid background in makeup application, color theory, and hygiene practices, often backed by a cosmetology license or specialized makeup artistry certification. Familiarity with professional makeup brands, airbrush systems, and on-set lighting effects is crucial for adapting looks to camera and production requirements. Strong communication, adaptability, and the ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines help you collaborate with directors, actors, and other crew members. These skills and qualities ensure consistent, camera-ready results that support the creative vision and smooth operation of film or television productions.

What are common challenges faced by on set makeup artists during film or television productions?

On Set Makeup Artists often face challenges such as working under tight time constraints, adapting makeup quickly for continuity between scenes, and collaborating with different departments like lighting and costume to ensure a cohesive look on camera. They must be prepared to make rapid touch-ups or adjustments as scenes are filmed out of sequence or under varying lighting conditions. Strong communication skills and flexibility are essential for addressing last-minute changes while maintaining the director's creative vision.

What is the difference between On Set Makeup Artist vs Makeup Artist?

AspectOn Set Makeup ArtistMakeup Artist
CredentialsCosmetology license, makeup certificationCosmetology license, makeup certification
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, photo shoots on location or studioSalons, events, freelance work, studio
Employer & IndustryFilm/TV productions, commercial shootsBeauty salons, freelance clients, events
Search & Comparison IntentSpecific to film/TV makeup rolesGeneral makeup services for clients

The main difference is that an On Set Makeup Artist specializes in applying makeup for film, TV, and photo shoots, working closely with production teams on set. A Makeup Artist may work in salons, events, or freelance settings, providing a broader range of beauty services. Both roles require similar credentials, but their work environments and industry focus differ.

How much do on set makeup artists make?

On set makeup artists typically earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of production. Freelance makeup artists may also charge daily or hourly rates, which can range from $200 to $600 per day or $20 to $50 per hour.

How to become a makeup artist on set?

To become an on-set makeup artist, gain relevant training through cosmetology or makeup artistry courses, build a strong portfolio, and acquire experience by assisting established artists or working on smaller productions. Familiarity with industry-standard tools and products, as well as good communication skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines, are essential. Networking and creating connections within the entertainment industry can also help secure on-set opportunities.

What kind of on set makeup artist makes the most money?

Experienced lead makeup artists working on high-budget film, television, or commercial productions tend to earn the highest salaries. Specializing in prosthetics, special effects makeup, or working with celebrity clients can also increase earning potential. Advanced skills, industry reputation, and working on major projects contribute to higher pay for on set makeup artists.
More about On Set Makeup Artist jobs

What cities are hiring for On Set Makeup Artist jobs?

Cities with the most On Set Makeup Artist job openings:

What states have the most On Set Makeup Artist jobs?

States with the most job openings for On Set Makeup Artist jobs include:

Infographic showing various On Set Makeup Artist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,605 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

HMUA (Hair & Makeup Artist)

HIGHSCALE

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

About High Scale
We're High Scale - a future-focused, data-obsessed agency revolutionizing video advertising on TV and social media. Think Amazon's obsession with customer experience meets SpaceX's fearless ambition-that's the DNA behind everything we do.
Our 120-person team of creatives, strategists, and innovators produces thousands of high-impact campaigns weekly for the world's leading lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and DTC brands. With 50,000 sq. ft. of DTLA studios and a global influencer network, we're creating high-volume, high-impact content at an incredible pace.
We believe great production is in the details. The right hair, makeup, and styling can completely transform how a person looks, feels, and performs on camera-and ultimately how an audience connects with a brand.
If you're passionate about beauty, creative production, and making people look and feel their absolute best, you'll thrive at High Scale.
Why This Role Matters
On camera, every detail matters.
As an HMUA (Hair & Makeup Artist), you'll help create the polished, authentic, and camera-ready looks that bring our productions to life. You'll work across a wide variety of brands, talent, products, and creative concepts-from natural UGC-style content to elevated commercial campaigns.
This role requires more than technical beauty skills. You'll need to understand the creative direction, adapt your work to different lighting and camera environments, work efficiently under production timelines, and know how to make each talent look and feel confident on set.
Because we're producing content at a high volume, we're looking for someone who can move quickly without compromising quality-and who brings positive energy, creativity, and professionalism to every shoot.
What You'll Do
Create Camera-Ready Looks
Execute hair and makeup looks based on creative briefs, mood boards, brand guidelines, and production requirements.
Create a range of looks from natural and effortless to polished, editorial, glamorous, or character-driven.
Ensure talent remains camera-ready throughout filming and make necessary touch-ups between takes.
Adapt makeup application to different skin types, tones, textures, and facial features.
Collaborate With the Creative Team
Work closely with Producers, Directors, Creative Strategists, Set Designers, Wardrobe Stylists, and talent to achieve the desired overall look.
Review creative references and understand how hair and makeup contribute to the story and brand aesthetic.
Communicate openly with the production team and make adjustments based on creative direction.
Bring your own creative perspective when you see an opportunity to elevate the look.
Prepare for Production
Review shoot briefs and talent requirements ahead of production.
Prepare, organize, and transport all necessary hair and makeup products and tools.
Ensure your kit is fully stocked, clean, sanitized, and production-ready.
Anticipate potential beauty, hair, or skin-related needs before they become production issues.
Maintain Looks Throughout the Shoot
Monitor talent continuously during filming and provide timely touch-ups.
Adjust makeup and hair based on lighting, camera angles, wardrobe changes, and environmental conditions.
Maintain consistency across multiple takes and scenes.
Work efficiently during quick changes and high-volume production days.
Support a Positive On-Set Experience
Help talent feel comfortable, confident, and prepared before stepping in front of the camera.
Maintain a professional, respectful, and upbeat presence on set.
Work efficiently within production timelines and remain flexible when schedules or creative direction change.
Contribute to a collaborative environment where everyone is focused on creating the best possible content.
Who You Are
Experienced HMUA
2+ years of professional experience as a Hair & Makeup Artist, Makeup Artist, Hairstylist, or similar role.
Experience in commercial, advertising, photography, television, film, social media, or editorial production is highly preferred.
A portfolio showcasing your hair and makeup work is required.
Strong Beauty & Technical Skills
Strong understanding of makeup application, hair styling, skin preparation, color matching, and camera-ready beauty.
Knowledge of how different lighting conditions and cameras affect makeup and hair is a strong advantage.
Comfortable working with a wide variety of talent, skin tones, hair textures, and personal styles.
Creative & Adaptable
You can interpret a creative brief and translate it into a finished look.
You have a strong eye for detail and understand how small adjustments can make a significant difference on camera.
You're comfortable experimenting with different looks and adapting quickly when creative direction changes.
Fast & Reliable
You can work efficiently without sacrificing quality.
You understand the pace of commercial production and are comfortable working across multiple talent and looks in a single day.
You're prepared, organized, punctual, and dependable.
Great Energy on Set
You understand that your role isn't just about hair and makeup-it's also about creating a great experience for talent and crew.
You bring positive energy to production, communicate clearly, and remain calm when things get busy.
You're someone who sees a challenge and immediately starts looking for a solution.
Passionate About Your Craft
You're constantly learning, experimenting, and staying current with beauty, hair, fashion, and social media trends.
You take pride in your work and are always looking for ways to elevate the final result.
You don't wait for someone to point out what needs to be fixed-you notice it, take ownership, and make it better.
Perks & Benefits
Work on Major Brand Campaigns
Create hair and makeup looks for leading beauty, fashion, lifestyle, wellness, and DTC brands across social media, digital, and television.
Work in a 50,000 sq. ft. Production Studio
Collaborate with talented Producers, Directors, Creatives, Designers, Photographers, and fellow artists in a world-class production environment.
Creative Variety
Work across a wide range of brands, talent, aesthetics, and creative concepts so no two production days look exactly the same.
Build Your Professional Portfolio
Contribute to commercial campaigns and high-quality content that showcase your work to a global audience.
Grow With a Fast-Moving Creative Team
Develop your craft, collaborate with other creative professionals, and take on increasingly challenging productions as High Scale continues to grow.
A Culture That Values Great People
We believe the best work happens when talented people bring their ideas, energy, and expertise to the table. Your voice and creative instincts are encouraged.
High Scale is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity because exceptional creative work comes from different perspectives, experiences, and ideas. If you're passionate about hair, makeup, beauty, and bringing creative concepts to life-and you're excited to work in a fast-paced production environment-we'd love to hear from you.
Department Production Locations Los Angeles HQ