Apprentice Piercer
Madison, WI · On-site
$24/hr
Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style learning, observation, and hands-on training. We are looking for Apprentices to join our training ...
Apprentice Piercer
Madison, WI · On-site
$24/hr
Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style learning, observation, and hands-on training. We are looking for Apprentices to join our training ...
Apprentice Piercer
Madison, WI · On-site
$24/hr
Studs connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping ® experience. We offer a better retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise ...
Apprentice Piercer
Madison, WI · On-site
$24/hr
Studs connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping ® experience. We offer a better retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise ...
Apprentice Piercer
Madison, WI · On-site
$24/hr
Studs connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping ® experience. We offer a better retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise ...
Quick apply
Apprentice Piercer
Madison, WI · On-site
$24/hr
Studs connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping ® experience. We offer a better retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise ...
Piercing Apprentice information
See Madison, WI salary details
$12.11 - $14.31
2% of jobs
$14.31 - $16.52
9% of jobs
$18.64 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.52 - $18.72
15% of jobs
$18.72 - $20.92
17% of jobs
The median wage is $21.83 / hr.
$20.92 - $23.12
18% of jobs
$24.77 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.12 - $25.32
19% of jobs
$25.32 - $27.53
10% of jobs
$27.53 - $29.73
4% of jobs
$29.73 - $31.93
2% of jobs
$31.93 - $34.13
1% of jobs
$34.13 - $36.33
3% of jobs
$12
$22
$36
How much do piercing apprentice jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for piercing apprentice in Madison, WI is $22.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Can you do a piercing apprenticeship?
A piercing apprenticeship is a common way to learn the profession, typically involving hands-on training under an experienced piercer. Apprentices usually learn about sterilization, anatomy, and jewelry placement, and may need to obtain relevant certifications or licenses depending on local regulations.
What Does a Piercing Apprentice Do?
An apprenticeship with a reputable piercing shop is the ideal way to gain the necessary experience and training in this form of body art. You learn safety and disinfection processes to prevent cross-contamination and infections, and typical duties involve the sterilization and proper storage of piercing tools. Responsibilities often include reviewing the inventory of disposable items like gloves, bandages, and other supplies and ordering them when necessary. You observe an experienced piercer before you perform any procedures on your own.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Piercing Apprentice, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Piercing Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of human anatomy, hygiene, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma and willingness to complete bloodborne pathogen certification. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, piercing tools, and aftercare products is typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a calm demeanor help build client trust and ensure precise work. These skills and qualities are essential to maintain safety standards, provide a positive client experience, and develop professional expertise in body piercing.
Is 27 too old for an apprenticeship?
Piercing apprenticeships typically do not have age restrictions, and individuals of any age, including 27, can pursue training in piercing. Success depends on skills, dedication, and completing required certifications, rather than age. Many apprentices start at different stages of life and still succeed in the profession.
What are some common challenges faced by piercing apprentices during their training period?
Piercing apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering precise hygiene and sterilization protocols, building confidence in handling clients, and developing steady hand skills for safe and accurate piercings. The learning curve can be steep as apprentices must balance technical skills with strong customer service, all while working under the supervision of experienced piercers. Additionally, apprentices may have to adapt to the fast-paced and sometimes unpredictable studio environment, where they are expected to assist with daily tasks, clean equipment, and observe procedures before gradually taking on more responsibility.
How much do you get paid as a piercing apprentice?
Piercing apprentices typically earn between minimum wage and $12 per hour, with some earning higher depending on location and experience. Compensation may include tips and sometimes a small stipend as they learn skills such as sterilization and jewelry placement under supervision.
What is the difference between Piercing Apprentice vs Piercing Technician?
| Aspect | Piercing Apprentice | Piercing Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires basic training, certification may be optional or early-stage | Requires certification, licensing, and experience |
| Work Environment | Assists experienced piercers, learns procedures, works under supervision | Performs piercings independently, interacts directly with clients |
| Industry Usage | Entry-level role, training position in piercing studios | Skilled professional, often with established reputation |
In summary, a Piercing Apprentice is an entry-level role focused on learning and assisting, while a Piercing Technician is a fully qualified professional performing piercings independently. The apprentice is in training, whereas the technician has the necessary credentials and experience to work autonomously.
What are piercing apprentices?
Piercing apprentices are individuals who are learning the art and practice of body piercing under the supervision of an experienced professional piercer. During their apprenticeship, they acquire hands-on experience, learn about hygiene, safety protocols, anatomy, jewelry selection, and aftercare. The apprenticeship typically lasts several months to a few years, depending on the studio and local regulations, and prepares the apprentice to perform piercings safely and competently on their own.
How do I become a piercing apprentice?
To become a piercing apprentice, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and demonstrate good hygiene and communication skills. Most apprenticeships are offered through licensed piercing studios and involve hands-on training under the supervision of experienced piercers, often requiring completion of health and safety certifications. The apprenticeship duration varies but generally lasts several months to a year, during which you learn about sterilization, jewelry selection, and piercing techniques.
More about Piercing Apprentice jobs
What are popular job titles related to Piercing Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI? For Piercing Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Piercing Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Piercing Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI are:
Studs rating
8.1
Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Want to get paid to become a piercer at Studs? Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style learning, observation, and hands-on training. We are looking for Apprentices to join our training program that will kickoff for the first 6 weeks at the end of August in our Abbot Kinney - Venice, CA studio location. Upon successful completion of the program, graduated Apprentices will become eligible for Part-Time Associate Piercer positions at our State Street studio.
Hourly Rate:
- Graduated apprentices make $24/hour as Associate Piercers, plus tips
- During the 6-week training program, apprentices make $19/hour, plus tips
Key Responsibilities:
REVENUE
- Service Oriented
- Embodies our performance-oriented culture by meeting and exceeding expectations
- Serves as a brand ambassador: educates clients on the unique Studs' experience through our selling cycle
- Delivers confident, clear, and professional communication with clients during their entire Studs' experience
OPERATIONS
- Decision Quality & Execution
- Leverages Studs' resources and policies in decision making
- Becomes well-versed in piercing operating procedures and regulations to ensure client experience and work safety standards are met
- Shows consistent and detailed record keeping of all maintenance, sterilized inventory and tools
TALENT
- Integrity
- Prioritizes Studio compliance and is accountable to standard operating procedures and company policy
- Admits mistakes and is not afraid to escalate when help is needed
- Lives out our Core Values
- Shows consistency by providing best in class service to everyone in the Studio
- Provides solutions-oriented feedback and is open-minded to receiving it
Requirements:
- 3 years of relevant work experience
- At least two years as a Medical Assistant or Phlebotomist (performing venipunctures and/or finger sticks) preferred
- Full Time:
- Must be available to work a flexible schedule up to 5 days per week (32+ hours), including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must maintain consistent availability
- Weekend availability (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) is required, excluding approved PTO
- Schedules may vary based on business needs, and Full-Time employees are expected to prioritize Studs as their primary employment commitment
- Part Time:
- Must be available to work a flexible schedule of varying days and hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Must have availability to work on Saturday and Sunday, excluding approved unscheduled time away
- Reliably attend work as scheduled for up to 29 hours per week, in line with local laws and subject to any approved accommodations
- Must pierce a minimum 18 appointments a day
- Must be able to visually inspect ear anatomy to execute advanced piercings
- Must be able to deliver piercings with a steady hand
- Must be able to lift 20 lbs
- Must be able to handle chemicals safely
- Travel to for the duration of the training program (paid by Studs)
- Driven, creative problem solver that consistently acts with integrity and speaks up
- Owner's mindset, with the ability to approach feedback and problems with a positive attitude.
Benefits & Perks
- Paid Safe & Sick Leave Accrual
- FSA Health and Commuter Tax-Advantaged Accounts
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
- Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we've got your friends and family covered too!)
About Studs
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Retail
Company size
1 - 10 Employees
Headquarters location
New York, NY, US
Year founded
2019