ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Theatre Makeup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEG

Fright Fest Make-Up Artist $20.00

Valencia, CA · On-site

$128K - $154K/yr

Interested applicants must be creative, have previous theatrical make-up experience. Qualifications Qualifications: Must be at least 18 years of age. Physical Requirements: * Constantly standing ...

SeaWorld

Makeup Artist

Busch, AR · On-site

Minimum of 1-year 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 ...

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 ...

Castle Park

Castle Dark Makeup Artist

Riverside, CA · On-site

Apply theatrical, special-effects, and Halloween makeup to performers * Transform actors into monsters, creatures, and other terrifying characters * Create wounds, bruises, scars, blood effects, and ...

Castle Park

Castle Dark Makeup Artist

Riverside, CA · On-site

Apply theatrical, special-effects, and Halloween makeup to performers * Transform actors into monsters, creatures, and other terrifying characters * Create wounds, bruises, scars, blood effects, and ...

Castle Park

Castle Dark Makeup Artist

Riverside, CA · On-site

Apply theatrical, special-effects, and Halloween makeup to performers * Transform actors into monsters, creatures, and other terrifying characters * Create wounds, bruises, scars, blood effects, and ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPersonal Care JobsSalon JobsCosmetologist JobsTheatre Makeup Jobs

Theatre Makeup information

See salary details

$9

$25

$66

How much do theatre makeup jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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.
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:

What job categories do people searching Theatre Makeup jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Theatre Makeup jobs are:

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 33% Full Time, and 67% Part 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 • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Transform performers into characters using theatrical and special effects makeup.

  • Apply makeup to performers, monitor makeup for Maze performers, and ensure all makeup is prepared for the weekend.

  • Maintain a hygienic workspace, follow protocols for cleaning brushes and makeup products, and assist with operational duties related to the costume department.

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.

Apply