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Piercing Apprentice Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Mclean, VA

$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 ...

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Mclean, VA · 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 ...

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Mclean, VA

$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 ...

All JobsPiercing Apprentice JobsPiercing Apprentice Jobs in Washington, DC

Piercing Apprentice information

See Washington, DC salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do piercing apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for piercing apprentice in Washington, DC is $25.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 is a piercing apprenticeship like?

A piercing apprenticeship involves working under an experienced piercer to learn techniques, safety protocols, and hygiene standards. Apprentices typically assist with preparations, observe procedures, and gradually perform piercings while gaining hands-on experience and industry knowledge. The process can last several months to a year, often requiring certification in health and safety practices.

How do I get an apprenticeship as a piercing apprentice?

To become a piercing apprentice, you should seek out a licensed professional or reputable piercing studio willing to train beginners. Typically, you need to demonstrate good hygiene, a steady hand, and a strong interest in body art; some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Completing a certification in bloodborne pathogens and sterilization procedures is often necessary before starting the apprenticeship.

Can I do a piercing apprenticeship?

A piercing apprenticeship is a training period where aspiring piercers learn techniques, safety protocols, and sanitation standards under experienced professionals. Most regions require apprentices to be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete health and safety certifications before starting an apprenticeship. Successful apprenticeships typically last several months to a year and involve hands-on practice in a licensed studio.

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.

What is the difference between Piercing Apprentice vs Piercing Technician?

AspectPiercing ApprenticePiercing Technician
CredentialsTypically requires basic training, certification may be optional or early-stageRequires certification, licensing, and experience
Work EnvironmentAssists experienced piercers, learns procedures, works under supervisionPerforms piercings independently, interacts directly with clients
Industry UsageEntry-level role, training position in piercing studiosSkilled 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 is a piercing apprentice?

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.
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Piercing Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Piercing Apprentice job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,741 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Apprentice Piercer

STUDS

Mclean, VA

$24/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Studs rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

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 Tysons Corner 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 Venice, CA 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!)

What Studs employees say

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