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Theatre Makeup information

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How much do theatre makeup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 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.

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.

More about Theatre Makeup jobs
What cities are hiring for Theatre Makeup jobs? Cities with the most Theatre Makeup job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Theatre Makeup jobs? The most popular types of Theatre Makeup jobs are:
What states have the most Theatre Makeup jobs? States with the most job openings for Theatre Makeup jobs include:
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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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,605 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Seasonal Howl-O-Scream Make-Up Artist | SeaWorld San Diego

Seaworldentertainment

San Diego, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

What you get to do:

  • As a Make-Up Artist for Howl-O-Scream, you'll help transform performers into terrifying characters using theatrical and special effects makeup. This role requires creativity, efficiency, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high-quality results.
  • Applying makeup for our Howl-O-Scream Terror-Tories, and monitoring the makeup for the Maze performers. This includes all specialty makeup and may extend into Show areas.
  • Applying makeup utilizing sponge and brush application techniques on approximately 10-15 people per shift, in 20-minute application increments.
  • Delivering all makeup to venues to be prepared for the weekend.
  • Keeping a hygienic workspace.
  • Assisting leadership in maintaining the approved HOS makeup designs.
  • Following all protocols for washing and caring for brushes and makeup products.
  • Performing daily operational duties to assist the costume department including covering open positions, communicating makeup changes, schedule changes, and other details, and sharing information with co-workers and management.
  • May spend any additional time in the costume shop learning costume-related skills.
  • Responsibility for maintaining quality standards, through assigned tasks, special events and show positions.
  • Maintaining park cleanliness, maintenance, and safety standards through all assigned tasks, including maintaining sanitization/disinfection protocols for a hygienic workspace
  • Other duties assigned

Compensation: 19.00 USD per hour


What it takes to succeed:

  • Prior makeup application experience is preferred
  • The typical work week during event operation is Thursday through Sunday. Must be willing and able to work evening and nighttime hours. Must have FULL AVAILABILITY on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting September 1 - November 1, 2026 including Halloween night (Halloween is a mandatory workday for all HOS ambassadors)
  • College degree in Theatre or related discipline (preferred but not required).
  • Minimum of 1 year of general experience in a theatrical environment.
  • Must have knowledge of stage makeup.
  • Must have the ability to apply multiple, pre-designed looks.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks simultaneously.
  • Must be able to stand, sit or walk for extended periods of up to three hours, several times per shift.
  • Position requires lifting/pushing/pulling a minimum of 40 pounds several times throughout a scheduled shift, this includes overhead lifting.
  • Must be able to work in an environment with atmospheric effects (fog, smoke, haze, mist, bubble, snow, scents, etc.).
  • Experience with wigs is a plus.
  • Cosmetology or Esthetician experience is a plus
  • Experience with costumes is a plus.
  • SFX makeup application skills a plus
  • Must have a portfolio or photo examples of your work

EEO Employer:

SEAWORLD PARKS & ENTERTAINMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED WITHOUT REGARD TO AGE, RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, PREGNANCY, GENDER IDENTITY OR EXPRESSION, DISABILITY OR COVERED VETERAN STATUS.

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