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Theatre Makeup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEG

SCarowinds Makeup Artist

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Preferred experience with makeup application, theatrical makeup, prosthetics, and/or air brush * Creativity and passion for creating cohesive makeup looks within appropriate storylines * People who ...

AEG

HAUNT Makeup Artist

Allentown, PA · On-site

$14.50/hr

Do you have previous theatrical makeup experience and are looking to continue using your skills in an amusement park setting? Now is your chance to do just that by becoming a Makeup Technician with ...

AEG

Make Up Artist $18.50/HR

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Apply special effects makeup including aging, bruising, wounds, prosthetics, airbrush applications, and other theatrical effects as required. * Collaborate with Entertainment Administrators, Wardrobe ...

Camelback Resort

Haunt Makeup Artist

Tannersville, PA · On-site

Apply theatrical, special effects, and character makeup to performers. * Apply prosthetics, fake wounds, aging effects, and other specialty makeup as needed. * Assist with wigs, facial hair, and ...

Camelback Resort

Haunt Makeup Artist

Tannersville, PA · On-site

Apply theatrical, special effects, and character makeup to performers. * Apply prosthetics, fake wounds, aging effects, and other specialty makeup as needed. * Assist with wigs, facial hair, and ...

Mid Minnesota Entertainment

Makeup Artist

Wyoming, MN · On-site

$14 - $21/hr

Applicants with experience in special effects makeup, theatrical/character makeup, airbrush makeup, and prosthetic application should apply. Applicants must be able to provide samples of previous ...

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Theatre Makeup information

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How much do theatre makeup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for theatre makeup 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 is a theatre makeup?

A Theatre Makeup job involves applying makeup and special effects to actors to enhance their appearance for stage performances. Makeup artists consider stage lighting, character requirements, and audience distance to create looks that remain visible and expressive. They may use basic beauty makeup, prosthetics, or special effects like scars and aging techniques. Theatre makeup artists often collaborate with directors, costume designers, and actors to ensure consistency in a character’s appearance throughout a production.

What types of productions and team environments do theatre makeup artists typically work in?

Theatre Makeup artists commonly work in a variety of settings including community theaters, touring productions, and major performing arts venues, often as part of a dedicated backstage or costume team. They interact closely with actors, directors, costume designers, and lighting technicians to ensure cohesive character looks that complement the overall production vision. Teams can range in size from a single makeup artist in smaller settings to large teams for major shows, so adaptability and strong collaboration skills are essential. The role frequently involves irregular hours, including nights and weekends, especially during show runs, which is important to consider when applying for these positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the theatre makeup position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Theatre Makeup artist, you need expertise in makeup application, knowledge of theatrical techniques, basic color theory, and often a certification or diploma in cosmetology or makeup artistry. Familiarity with professional makeup kits, prosthetics, special effects materials, and potential safety certifications are commonly advantageous. Strong communication, time management, and adaptability are valuable soft skills due to the fast-paced and collaborative nature of theatre production. These competencies ensure performers' visual presentations are authentic and consistent, supporting the overall success of each show.

How do you get into theatre makeup?

To become a theatre makeup artist, gaining relevant training or certification in makeup artistry is essential, along with developing a strong portfolio of work. Experience can be built through internships, assisting established artists, or working on student or community productions. Knowledge of theatrical styles, tools, and safety practices is also important for success in this field.

How much does a theatre makeup artist make?

Theatre makeup artists typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of productions. Salaries can vary with freelance work, union membership, and the complexity of makeup designs required for different performances.

How to become a theatre makeup artist?

To become a theatre makeup artist, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and training in makeup artistry through cosmetology programs, specialized courses, or apprenticeships. Developing skills in color theory, prosthetics, and special effects, along with experience working on productions, helps build a strong portfolio and reputation in the industry.

What does a theatre makeup artist do in theater?

A theatre makeup artist applies makeup to actors to enhance their appearance, create character-specific looks, and ensure consistency under stage lighting. They work with various techniques, use specialized products, and often collaborate closely with costume designers and directors to achieve the desired visual effect.
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Theatre Makeup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theatre Makeup job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 22% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,605 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Make Up Artist

Koch Family Entertainment LLC

Bessemer, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Summary
Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure is seeking creative, dependable, and enthusiastic Haunted House Makeup Artists to bring our Fear Fest characters to life. Makeup Artists will transform scare actors into terrifying creatures, monsters, victims, and other Halloween characters through professional special-effects makeup, prosthetics, face painting, and related techniques.
This is a seasonal position that is ideal for individuals interested in theatrical makeup, special effects, cosmetology, theater, film, haunted attractions, or the Halloween entertainment industry.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Apply Halloween, theatrical, and special-effects makeup to haunted house actors.
  • Create a variety of looks including wounds, bruises, blood effects, aging, monsters, creatures, and other character designs.
  • Apply and remove prosthetics, latex, appliances, wigs, and other character effects as needed.
  • Follow established character designs and makeup instructions to maintain consistency throughout the event.
  • Work efficiently to complete multiple actors before the attraction opens.
  • Perform makeup touch-ups throughout the evening as needed.
  • Properly clean, sanitize, organize, and maintain makeup supplies and work areas.
  • Follow all health, sanitation, and safety procedures when applying makeup and prosthetics.
  • Communicate professionally with scare actors, supervisors, and other members of the Fear Fest team.
  • Assist with preparing and organizing makeup supplies before and after each operating night.
  • Help create a fun, immersive, and appropriately frightening experience for Fear Fest guests.

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Previous experience with theatrical, special-effects, Halloween, or beauty makeup preferred, but not required.
  • Ability to work quickly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Creativity and attention to detail.
  • Comfortable working with fake blood, prosthetics, latex, adhesives, and other special-effects materials.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Must be comfortable working around Halloween-themed horror imagery and effects.
  • Must be dependable and able to arrive on time for scheduled shifts.
  • Ability to work evenings, weekends, and Halloween-season operating dates.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to bend, reach, and work around actors while applying makeup.
  • Ability to safely handle and organize makeup equipment and supplies.
  • Ability to work in a busy backstage environment for extended periods.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for artists who aren't afraid to get creative, get messy, and get scary! Whether you're an experienced SFX artist or someone with a passion for makeup who wants to build experience, Fear Fest is an opportunity to showcase your creativity and help create unforgettable characters.
Join the Fear Fest team and help turn our actors into the nightmares our guests won't forget!

Apply