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Professional Makeup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apply professional beauty makeup for performers, actors, dancers, and entertainers. * Execute a variety of themed character and performance makeup looks according to design specifications from the ...

We are looking for positive, professional, driven and reliable makeup artists to join our award winning team! You will have the opportunity to work in beautiful, exclusive locations with friendly ...

Special Event Makeup Artist

Napa, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

We are looking for positive, professional, driven and reliable makeup artists to join our award winning team! You will have the opportunity to work in beautiful, exclusive locations with friendly ...

Maintain a positive, enthusiastic, helpful and professional attitude with all customers and team ... Provide makeup artistry services including full makeup applications, makeup lessons, as well as ...

Special Event Makeup Artist

Cool, CA · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

We are looking for positive, professional, driven and reliable makeup artists to join our award winning team! You will have the opportunity to work in beautiful, exclusive locations with friendly ...

Help maintain a fun, professional, and energetic backstage environment What We're Looking For * Makeup experience is a plus, but Halloween/SFX experience is highly preferred * Creative and artistic ...

Help maintain a fun, professional, and energetic backstage environment What We're Looking For * Makeup experience is a plus, but Halloween/SFX experience is highly preferred * Creative and artistic ...

Special Event Makeup Artist

Cool, CA · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

We are looking for positive, professional, driven and reliable makeup artists to join our award winning team! You will have the opportunity to work in beautiful, exclusive locations with friendly ...

Showing results 41-60

Professional Makeup information

What does a professional makeup artist do?

A professional makeup artist specializes in applying makeup and other cosmetic products to enhance or alter a person's appearance for events, photoshoots, film, television, theater, or everyday wear. They are skilled in various techniques, including contouring, color matching, and creating looks that suit different face shapes, skin tones, and occasions. Makeup artists may also provide skincare advice and collaborate with clients to achieve their desired look, often working in salons, on set, or as freelancers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional makeup artist?

To thrive as a Professional Makeup Artist, you need expertise in makeup application techniques, color theory, skin care, and a formal certification or cosmetology license is often required. Familiarity with various cosmetic brands, makeup tools, and hygiene standards, along with proficiency in digital portfolio platforms, is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure help professionals stand out in this field. These skills and qualities ensure client satisfaction, safety, and the ability to adapt to diverse client needs and fast-paced environments.

What are some common challenges professional makeup artists face when working on set or at events?

Professional makeup artists often face tight schedules, requiring them to complete looks quickly without sacrificing quality. They must adapt to changing lighting conditions on set, which can affect how makeup appears on camera or in photos. Additionally, collaborating with different personalities, such as clients, models, or photographers, requires strong communication and flexibility to ensure everyone’s vision is achieved. Managing and sanitizing tools between clients is also critical to maintain hygiene standards throughout a busy day.

What is the difference between Professional Makeup vs Makeup Artist?

AspectProfessional MakeupMakeup Artist
CredentialsOften certified or trained in cosmetology or makeup artistryMay have certification, but focus is more on practical skills
Work EnvironmentBeauty salons, fashion shows, photo shoots, film setsSimilar environments, including salons, events, and media productions
Industry UsageUsed broadly for beauty, fashion, and entertainmentCommonly used for specific events or projects
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding professional qualifications and servicesLooking for skilled makeup services for events or media

Professional Makeup refers to trained individuals providing makeup services across various industries, often with certifications. Makeup Artist is a broader term for those applying makeup professionally, often used interchangeably but may vary in certification levels. Both roles work in similar environments, but 'Professional Makeup' emphasizes formal training and credentials.

How much do professional makeup artists get paid?

Professional makeup artists' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they typically earn between $25,000 and $75,000 annually. Freelance artists may charge hourly rates ranging from $25 to $150 or more, depending on the project and reputation. Many also supplement income through tips and product sales.

What careers are available to a professional makeup artist?

A professional makeup artist can pursue careers in areas such as film and television makeup, fashion and editorial styling, bridal and special event makeup, theater and performance arts, and cosmetic retail. These roles often require strong skills in makeup application, knowledge of products and tools, and sometimes certification or licensing depending on the industry and location.

What job can I do if I like professional makeup?

If you enjoy professional makeup, you can pursue careers such as makeup artist, beauty consultant, or cosmetic specialist. These roles often require skills in color theory, skincare, and makeup application, and may involve working in salons, fashion shows, or film productions. Certification or training from beauty schools can enhance job prospects and credibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Makeup jobs in California?

The most popular types of Makeup jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Professional Makeup jobs?

Cities in California with the most Professional Makeup job openings:

Infographic showing various Professional Makeup job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

$21/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Makeup Artist – Seasonal Long Beach CA  | Seasonal | Sept - Nov

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment—and proudly the world's largest operator of Halloween attractions. With eighteen markets spanning Florida to California and millions of guests thrilled each year, we don't just produce events. We redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Denver and powered by a team of fearless creators, we've built a culture where curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to go beyond expectations are the standard—not the exception. When you join Thirteenth Floor, you're not just taking a job. You're stepping into the magic behind the screams.


Returning applicants: If you have worked for Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group in a prior season, please contact your location manager directly regarding rehire status. Do not submit a new application through the online system.


What You'll Do

As our Seasonal Makeup Artist, you're the creative force behind the nightmares. Every character that haunts our guests starts in your chair—your artistry, speed, and precision transform performers into unforgettable creatures that make our attraction legendary.

Transformative Makeup Artistry

  • Craft professional-grade special effects looks for actors based on established look books and original character designs

  • Execute a full range of techniques including airbrushing, hand-painting, and prosthetic application to bring characters to life

  • Ensure every application is durable enough to withstand hours of intense performance, movement, and environmental conditions

  • Faithfully execute established designs while contributing your own creative flair where appropriate

Time Management & Show Pacing

  • Work swiftly and efficiently to complete complex looks within tight pre-show windows

  • Manage multiple actors simultaneously, prioritizing touch-ups and reapplications throughout the night to keep every character show-ready

Station Management

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and fully sanitized workspace at all times

  • Monitor inventory, care for all tools and supplies, and report restocking needs proactively

  • Adapt your station setup to varying locations, space limitations, and nightly demands

Collaboration & Communication

  • Partner with the costume department to ensure cohesive, compelling character presentations

  • Communicate clearly with actors about application processes, product use, and aftercare

  • Collaborate with fellow artists to maintain visual consistency and share techniques that elevate the overall aesthetic

Adaptability & Professionalism

  • Respond quickly to last-minute character changes, actor substitutions, or design adjustments mid-show

  • Troubleshoot makeup challenges in demanding conditions—low light, outdoor settings, high humidity

  • Participate in pre-season training to master character designs and expand your technical toolkit

  • Maintain a calm, positive, and professional demeanor that respects every performer's comfort and personal space

What You Bring
  • Demonstrated experience in special effects, theatrical, or character makeup—haunted attraction or live entertainment experience strongly preferred

  • Proficiency in prosthetics, airbrushing, hand-painting, and SFX techniques

  • Ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure without sacrificing quality

  • Strong collaborative instincts and clear communication skills with performers and fellow artists

  • Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive about station and inventory management

  • Comfortable standing and moving throughout the event area for the duration of each shift

  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and all scheduled event dates—reliable attendance is essential

  • Must be 18 years of age or older


Compensation & Employment Details

Hourly Rate: $21.00 hr 
Employment Type: Seasonal/Temporary
Expected Season Duration: Late September – Early November 2026
Work Schedule: Evenings, weekends, and holidays required during operational season

This is a seasonal/temporary position with an anticipated end date. Employment beyond the stated season is not guaranteed.

Pursuant to California SB 1162, the hourly pay rate for this position is listed above. Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group will not request or consider salary history in making compensation decisions.

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group participates in E-Verify. As required by federal law, we will verify the identity and employment eligibility of all hired individuals.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act (AB 1008). You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made.

Applicants with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations at any point in the hiring process by contacting hr@thirteenthfloor.com

Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), applicants are entitled to know what personal information is collected during the hiring process and how it is used. To review our Applicant Privacy Notice, visit [link] or contact HR at the email above.

Applicant Privacy Notice – California Residents

In connection with your application for employment, Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group ("TFEG") collects personal information about applicants as permitted and required by law. The categories of personal information we may collect include: identifiers (such as name, address, email, and phone number); professional and employment-related information (such as work history, references, and qualifications); education information; and background check information where applicable and permitted. This information is collected for the purpose of evaluating your candidacy, processing your application, and fulfilling our legal obligations as an employer. We do not sell applicants' personal information. Personal information collected during the hiring process is retained in accordance with applicable law and our internal data retention policies. If you have questions about how your personal information is collected or used, please contact Human Resources at hr@thirteenthfloor.com.