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Special Effects Makeup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Make Up Artist

Agawam, MA · On-site

$18/hr

Understanding and executing make-up and special effects designs as directed * Learning the various roles in our Haunted Attractions, Midway Haunts and our Shows so proper makeup design can be applied

AEG

Fright Fest Makeup Artist

Arlington, TX · On-site

Other duties as assigned by Entertainment Leadership Qualifications Must be over the age of 18 Able to work with a variety of makeup and special effects including but not limited to airbrush, creme ...

Six Flags

SFOG Ent FF Scare Actor

Austell, GA · On-site

$14.50/hr

Be able to wear a latex mask, silicone mask, or special effects makeup for long periods. * Able to manage close interaction with park guests. Working Conditions: * Work may be indoors or outdoors at ...

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How much do special effects makeup jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for special effects makeup in the United States is $67,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a special effects makeup artist?

A Special Effects (SFX) Makeup job involves creating realistic or fantastical makeup effects for films, TV, theater, or live events. This can include aging effects, wounds, scars, creature design, and prosthetic application. SFX makeup artists use cosmetics, prosthetics, and various materials to transform actors into characters. They work closely with directors and costume designers to achieve the desired visual effects. Skills in sculpting, painting, and knowledge of special makeup products are essential for this role.

What does a special effects makeup artist do?

A Special Effects Makeup Artist's daily duties include designing and applying makeup and prosthetics to actors according to the script and director's vision, ensuring continuity throughout shoots, and making on-the-spot adjustments as needed during filming. They often start early to allow enough time for complex applications, and work closely with actors, costume designers, and the rest of the production team. Maintaining and cleaning makeup tools, managing prosthetic supplies, and sometimes preparing molds or pieces ahead of time are part of the job. Flexibility and adaptability are important since schedules and creative needs can change quickly in a production environment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a special effects makeup artist?

To thrive as a Special Effects Makeup Artist, you need expertise in makeup artistry, prosthetics application, sculpting, and an understanding of color theory, usually gained through specialized training or a degree in cosmetology, art, or theatrical makeup. Familiarity with airbrushes, mold-making tools, special effects materials (like latex and silicone), and portfolio development is essential, and professional certifications can be advantageous. Creativity, attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work under tight deadlines are key soft skills in this field. These skills enable artists to create realistic and imaginative effects while effectively collaborating with directors, actors, and production teams on set.

How much does a special effects makeup artist get paid?

The average salary for a special effects makeup artist varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $30,000 to $80,000 annually. Entry-level artists may earn less, while those with extensive skills and industry connections can earn higher wages, especially working on film, television, or theater productions.

Is special effects makeup a good career?

Special effects makeup is a specialized field within the entertainment and film industries, requiring creativity, technical skills, and knowledge of prosthetics, latex, and other materials. It can be a rewarding career for those passionate about design and storytelling, but it often involves irregular hours, freelance work, and building a strong portfolio to succeed. Job stability and income vary based on experience, reputation, and industry demand.

What do you need to become a special effects makeup artist?

To become a special effects makeup artist, you typically need a strong understanding of makeup techniques, prosthetics, and materials like latex and silicone. Formal training through cosmetology or special effects makeup courses, along with practical experience, is important. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work with various tools and in a team environment are also essential.
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Infographic showing various Special Effects Makeup job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,955 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Kennywood - Costume/Make-Up Consultant (Phantom Fall Fest)

West Mifflin, PA • On-site

Herschend
Amusement Parks • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Herschendexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Our story began 75 years ago when the Herschend family discovered wonder deep in an Ozark Mountain cave-and chose to share it with the world. Today, Herschend is the largest family-held themed attractions company, with over 40 leading attractions and immersive experiences that reach audiences worldwide.
While each brand offers something unique, all are united by a shared purpose: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating®. Our passionate hosts make this purpose possible through everyday acts of love and service-what we call Heartspitality®-the intersection of heart and hospitality.
As an equal-opportunity employer, we strive to provide environments where every host, guest, and partner feel welcome, valued, and loved. We firmly believe that words and actions matter, which is why all individuals are to be treated equally and with respect.
Kennywood is a National Historic Landmark with over 125 years of experience in fun! Kennywood has an unmatched mix of more than 40 modern attractions and one-of-a-kind classic rides, including eight roller coasters, a Kiddieland with pint-sized thrills for the little ones, and more. Kennywood's rich history spans generations of good times and extends beyond the traditional summer season with popular Halloween and Holiday events.
We are currently looking for a:
Kennywood - Costume/Make-Up Consultant (Phantom Fall Fest)
Roles & Responsibilities:
The Costume & Make-Up Artist is mainly responsible for transforming our Team into chilling and/or realistic characters. The artist will use creme and water-based make-up products as well as latex and prosthetics. This position is responsible for expertly putting on Team Member make-up and prosthetics within the design for the attraction, as well as supervising, monitoring, and tending to park attractions.
This position may also be responsible for helping team members get into costume for special events.
Job Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Engage with guests and other team members in a fun and welcoming manner
  • Add make-up and prosthetics to character performers to fit the design and theming of specific attractions and events
  • Recommend and create attention-grabbing make-up and costume designs to enhance the realism of the character
  • Create stunning visuals and special effects that add realism and/or shock factor to character appearances
  • Assist character performers with costuming needs, when needed
  • Assist character performers with adding or removing their costumes
  • Assist with mending and/or storing costumes
  • Proactively monitor assigned areas and quickly identify and escalate any safety hazards or other risks to the proper authorities
  • Ensure compliance with and enforce all park policies, procedures, and labor laws
  • Perform duties in other areas or departments of the park, as requested
  • All other duties assigned by leadership

Language: Ability to read, write, and speak fluent English; Spanish or other bilingual language skills are a plus.
Education and Experience:
  • No education requirements for this position
  • Previous acting or costume character experience is desired but not required

Requirements:
  • Must be at least 18 years of age to comply with Pennsylvania Child Labor Laws
  • Ability to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Must have reliable transportation to and from work for your scheduled shift
  • Must possess exceptional customer service skills, with an ability to resolve questions, problems, issues, and concerns in a positive and professional manner
  • Previous special effects make up experience and portfolio is preferred but not required
  • Ability to follow direction, multi-task, and work as part of a fast-paced team

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, and remain on feet for majority of the workday
  • Ability to remain sedentary for extended periods of time while applying makeup
  • Ability to frequently stoop, twist, kneel, bend, squat, or reach above shoulders
  • Ability to carry, push, pull, lift, and hold objects weighing 50 pounds or more
  • Ability to consistently use hands to grasp, control, move objects/tools
  • Ability to see details of objects that are more than a few feet away

Working Conditions:
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor and indoor areas of the park
  • Frequent exposure to the variable outside temperatures (both in and out of costume), including high heat, cold, direct sun, humidity, dust, rain, snow, ice, and other weather conditions
  • Subject to frequent interruptions, constant repetitive motion, high noise levels, flashing lights, and heavily populated environments

Team member benefits:
Working at Kennywood is about making people happy! It's about being independent and having fun, making new friends and earning extra money while doing so. As a Kennywood employee, you can be the smiling face that makes a great first impression for incoming guests, a cook that serves up tasty treats and culinary delights, or a ride operator that keeps guests coming back for more thrills! There are many exciting seasonal job opportunities available to take your summer job to new heights!
Perks & Benefits:
  • Flexible schedule
  • Ability to cross-train and learn unique skills across various departments
  • Free admission to Kennywood and other parks on your days off
  • Invitations to exclusive company-sponsored employee events throughout the season

We've got great jobs for people just starting out in the workforce, looking for a second job or staying active after retirement. If you want a fun, flexible job with an innovative company, look no further than Kennywood. Apply today!
Do not miss the chance to spark your career now!

Apply