ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Makeup Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ramoneda Photography

Lakeland Makeup Artist

Orlando, FL · On-site

$100/hr

Company pays hair and makeup $100; customers travel to the makeup artist, and Travel is paid $150 ... Must have their own professional makeup and equipment. Text to be considered with portfolio to 786 ...

blowology dry bar

Makeup Artist

Castro Valley, CA · On-site

$19.18/hr

Makeup Artist Location: Blowology Dry Bar and Spa Schedule: Weekdays and/or Weekends What We Offer ... Provide professional makeup services for our clients * Recommend products and techniques to clients ...

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Freelance Makeup Artist

Homewood, AL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

You will be responsible for enhancing clients' appearances through creative and professional makeup ... Requirements: * Proven experience as a makeup artist in beauty, fashion, film, or events.

Mid Minnesota Entertainment

Makeup Artist

Wyoming, MN · On-site

$14 - $21/hr

Maintains professionalism while working with over 20 actors per night * Maintains cleanliness of ... Following The Dead End Hayride's makeup artist handbook Job Requirements: * Must be able to work ...

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Freelance Makeup Artist

Homewood, AL · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

... Artist. This role is perfect for someone who loves beauty, and making people look beautiful ... Provide professional makeup services for clients in salon clients and travel (bridal, events ...

Blo Blow Dry Bar

Part Time Make Up Artist

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$17.25/hr

We are seeking a talented Makeup Artist to join our team. If you have a passion for beauty and ... Duties:** - Provide professional makeup services for clients including special events, weddings ...

CBN

On-Call Make-up Artist

Virginia Beach, VA

$25 - $30/hr

The 700 Club - Virginia Beach, VA The Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN) , a leader in Christian media, is looking for a professional Make-up Artist in Virginia Beach, VA to join our team. This is ...

Priv

Makeup Artist - Houston

Houston, TX · On-site

We are seeking talented and professional Makeup Artists to join our community of freelance pros in ... your area. Be a part of our loyal team of professionals, committed to transforming the beauty and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Makeup Artist Jobs

Professional Makeup Artist information

See salary details

$9

$25

$66

How much do professional makeup artist jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional 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 does a professional makeup artist do?

A professional makeup artist is an expert who applies makeup and other cosmetic products to enhance or alter a person's appearance. They work in various settings, including fashion shows, film and television sets, weddings, and photo shoots. Makeup artists use a range of techniques and products to achieve the desired look, whether it's natural, dramatic, or character-driven. Their responsibilities may also include consulting with clients, understanding skin types, and staying updated on the latest beauty trends.

What is the difference between Professional Makeup Artist vs Makeup Artist?

AspectProfessional Makeup ArtistMakeup Artist
CredentialsOften certified or trained in cosmetology or makeup artistryMay have informal training or self-taught
Work EnvironmentSalons, film sets, fashion shows, special eventsBeauty salons, freelance, events
Industry UsageCommonly used in professional settings requiring certificationMore general, includes hobbyists and part-time workers

The main difference is that a Professional Makeup Artist typically has formal training or certification and works in specialized environments like film, fashion, or events. A Makeup Artist may have less formal training and work in more casual or freelance settings. Both roles involve applying makeup, but the professional often has a higher level of expertise and credentials.

How can I become a professional makeup artist?

To become a professional makeup artist, you typically need to complete cosmetology or makeup artistry training, gain hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships, and build a portfolio of your work. Certification or licensing requirements vary by location but can enhance credibility and job prospects.

How much money do professional makeup artists make?

Professional makeup artists' earnings vary based on experience, location, and clientele, but they typically earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually. Freelance artists or those working in high-end salons, film, or fashion may earn higher incomes, especially with specialized skills and a strong portfolio.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Professional Makeup Artist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Makeup Artist, you need a solid understanding of color theory, facial anatomy, and cosmetic application techniques, often supported by a cosmetology license or specialized makeup certification. Familiarity with professional makeup brands, application tools, sanitation protocols, and photo/video lighting considerations is crucial. Creativity, attention to detail, excellent communication, and adaptability help set top artists apart in diverse settings. These skills and qualities ensure client satisfaction, safety, and the ability to meet the demands of various productions or events.

Is makeup artist a high paying job?

The salary of a professional makeup artist varies based on experience, location, and clientele, with many earning competitive wages in the beauty industry. Top makeup artists working in film, fashion, or celebrity events can earn higher incomes, especially with specialized skills and certifications. However, entry-level makeup artists may earn less, and income can fluctuate based on work opportunities and hours.

What jobs can you get as a makeup artist?

A professional makeup artist can work in various settings including salons, beauty clinics, fashion shows, film and television productions, bridal and special event services, and retail cosmetics stores. They may also specialize in areas such as special effects, editorial makeup, or skincare consulting, often requiring proficiency with makeup tools and certifications in cosmetology or esthetics.

How does a professional makeup artist typically collaborate with clients and other creative professionals during a photoshoot or event?

Professional makeup artists work closely with clients, photographers, stylists, and sometimes hairdressers to achieve the desired look for a photoshoot or event. Communication is key—they consult with clients to understand their preferences and requirements, then coordinate with the creative team to ensure makeup complements lighting, wardrobe, and the overall theme. Flexibility and adaptability are important, as adjustments may be needed on set to respond to changing conditions or creative direction.
More about Professional Makeup Artist jobs
What cities are hiring for Professional Makeup Artist jobs? Cities with the most Professional Makeup Artist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Makeup Artist jobs? The most popular types of Makeup Artist jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Makeup Artist jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Makeup Artist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Professional Makeup Artist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Professional Makeup Artist jobs are:
Professional Makeup Artist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Makeup Artist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,605 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Lakeland Makeup Artist

Ramoneda Photography

Orlando, FL • On-site

$100/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Company pays hair and makeup $100; customers travel to the makeup artist, and  Travel is paid $150.00 additional. Makeup artist travels to locations, assists photographers, and does retouches. Must be willing to travel.

Job details:
  • Makeup and hair artist needed for quince photo sessions. 
  • Must have past experience in both makeup and hair. 
  • Makeup is to be done before photo sessions and during, depending on the job. 
  • Must have their own professional makeup and equipment.

Text to be considered with portfolio to 786-444-2018 Barbie.