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Piercing Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Piercing Apprenticeship information

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$11

$21

$35

How much do piercing apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for piercing apprenticeship in the United States is $21.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning experiences during a piercing apprenticeship?

During a piercing apprenticeship, you can expect to assist the lead piercer with daily tasks such as maintaining a sterile work environment, preparing equipment, greeting clients, and handling documentation. Apprentices often observe procedures, practice safety techniques, and gradually learn to perform basic piercings under supervision. Over time, you’ll receive hands-on training in anatomy, aftercare advice, jewelry selection, and client consultation. This comprehensive approach prepares you for independent piercing work and ensures you understand both the technical and customer service aspects of the profession.

What is a piercing apprenticeship?

A piercing apprenticeship is a hands-on training program where an aspiring body piercer learns the skills and safety protocols necessary for the profession. Under the supervision of an experienced piercer, apprentices gain knowledge about sterilization, jewelry selection, anatomy, and proper piercing techniques. This unpaid or low-paid position typically lasts several months to a few years, depending on the studio and apprentice’s progress. Completing an apprenticeship is essential for becoming a professional body piercer, as it ensures proper training and adherence to industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a piercing apprenticeship, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Piercing Apprentice, you need strong attention to detail, basic knowledge of human anatomy, and a commitment to hygiene and safety practices, often requiring a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with sterilization equipment, autoclaves, and proper handling of piercing tools is essential, and many states require bloodborne pathogens certification. Excellent communication, patience, and a willingness to learn help apprentices build rapport with clients and absorb new techniques from experienced piercers. These skills ensure the apprentice can provide safe procedures, uphold industry standards, and deliver a positive experience for clients.

How do I get a piercing apprenticeship?

To get a piercing apprenticeship, you should research and contact licensed piercing studios or professionals to inquire about apprenticeship opportunities. Typically, apprenticeships require a high school diploma or equivalent, a clean background, and a willingness to learn proper sterilization, safety protocols, and jewelry placement. Some regions may require specific certifications or training before starting an apprenticeship.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Piercing Apprenticeship jobs?

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What states have the most Piercing Apprenticeship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Piercing Apprenticeship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Piercing Apprenticeship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,919 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Apprentice Piercer

STUDS

Mclean, VA

$24/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 25 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

Studs is a category-defining ear piercing and earring brand named one of "the 10 most innovative companies in retail for 2023" by Fast Company. 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 in a cool, fun and welcoming environment, along with a wide earring assortment—all at an accessible price point.

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!)

Studs is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a work environment that fosters diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, age, creed, sex, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), marital status, citizenship, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, or any other legally protected status. Studs considers qualified applicants with criminal histories. We comply with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which we operate. If you require an accommodation for the application process, please fill out this form.

Massachusetts Applicants: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Click here for the Studs Privacy Notice for California Applicants.


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