Cruise Ship Hairdresser Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the luxury hospitality industry, the focus on cruise ship hairdressers has never been more important.

As cruise experiences evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can craft, innovate, and uphold our hairdressing standards on board heightens.

So, let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from a cruise ship hairdresser?

Whether you are:

• An individual seeking a vibrant career in hairdressing at sea,
• A cruise recruiter aiming to pinpoint the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the unique role of a cruise ship hairdresser,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable cruise ship hairdresser job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s embark on this journey.

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Duties and Responsibilities

Cruise Ship Hairdressers perform a range of tasks related to hair care and styling services for cruise ship guests.

They also adhere to the specific standards and regulations of the cruise line they work for.

Cruise Ship Hairdressers are primarily responsible for directly assisting clients, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Consulting with clients to understand their hair care needs and preferences
• Offering advice on hairstyles and hair treatments based on clients’ facial features and skin tone
• Performing hair treatments such as shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling
• Using a variety of professional hair styling tools and products
• Applying hair care products like serums and masks to maintain the health of clients’ hair
• Ensuring sanitation and health standards are maintained in accordance with cruise line policies, including cleaning and disinfecting workstations
• Scheduling appointments and managing client records
• Processing client payments for services provided
• Monitoring and replenishing salon supplies as needed
• Participating in onboard training and health and safety drills

 

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly-skilled and creative hairdresser to provide excellent hair services to our cruise ship clientele.

The Hairdresser will be responsible for creating stylish and flattering hairstyles, offering hair care advice, and ensuring a pleasant salon experience onboard.

Our ideal candidate has a wide range of hair styling skills, excellent customer service skills and the ability to work as part of a dedicated beauty and wellness team.

 

Responsibilities

• Consult with clients on their haircare needs, recommend appropriate styles, and maintain customer satisfaction.
• Perform a broad range of hair styling services, from cutting hair to performing scalp treatments.
• Maintain cleanliness of salon and work station.
• Keep up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the hairdressing industry.
• Collaborate with the wellness team to offer comprehensive beauty services.
• Manage bookings and serve walk-in clients.
• Recommend hair products and tools to clients.
• Attend onboard meetings and training sessions as required.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a hairdresser, stylist or similar role.
• Proficiency in hair straightening and curling methods, using hot irons and curlers.
• Hands-on experience with various coloring techniques.
• Knowledge of a wide range of haircuts, suitable for all hair lengths (e.g. braids, buzz cuts and French twists).
• Experience in weaving, extensions, and color mixing.
• Proficiency with hair treatment products and services.
• Diploma from a vocational school in hair styling, cosmetology or relevant field.
• Good physical stamina to stand for long hours.

 

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Meals and accommodation provided onboard
• Medical coverage
• Travel opportunities
• Training and professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cruise Ship Hairdresser
• Work Environment: Cruise ship salon setting. You will be required to work at sea for extended periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Salon Manager or Wellness Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Dependent on experience and qualifications.
• Location: Various global locations
• Employment Type: Full-time, contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a portfolio showcasing your work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cruise Ship Hairdresser Do?

A Cruise Ship Hairdresser is a specialized hairstylist who works within the beauty salon of a cruise ship.

Their primary responsibilities include cutting, trimming, and styling hair of the passengers aboard the cruise.

They also provide services such as shampooing, conditioning, coloring, highlighting, and applying hair treatments as per the client’s request.

Cruise Ship Hairdressers often work with a diverse and international clientele and must be able to adapt to different hair types and styles.

They are also expected to stay updated on the latest hair trends and techniques, as providing a wide range of styles is necessary due to the variety of clients.

In addition to hair services, they may also offer consultations, provide recommendations for hair products available on the ship, and even perform other beauty services such as manicures and pedicures.

As cruise ships operate round the clock, Cruise Ship Hairdressers may also need to accommodate appointments during odd hours.

They must maintain cleanliness and hygiene of their workspace in line with the cruise line’s standards and regulations.

Providing excellent customer service is also a key part of their role, as they need to ensure a pleasant and relaxing experience for the passengers, contributing to their overall cruise experience.

 

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Qualifications and Skills

A proficient cruise ship hairdresser should have the skills and qualifications that fit the unique demands of this role, including:

• Having technical proficiency in various hair treatments, cutting, styling, and coloring techniques to cater to a diverse range of client needs and preferences.
• Exhibiting excellent customer service skills to ensure clients feel comfortable and satisfied with the services provided, contributing to an overall positive cruise experience.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure during peak times and maintain high standards of service.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to understand the client’s needs and expectations, and to provide advice on hair care and styling.
• Knowledge of hygiene standards and infection control procedures relevant to the hairdressing industry.
• Having a creative flair and eye for aesthetics to create personalized and fashionable hair styles for clients.
• Physical stamina and agility to stand for prolonged periods and perform precise hairdressing tasks.
• Flexibility to adapt to the changing needs and schedules of a cruise ship environment.
• Understanding of basic business principles such as inventory management, appointment scheduling, and salesmanship for recommending hair care products.

 

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Experience Requirements

Cruise Ship Hairdressers generally need to have completed a recognized hairdressing qualification, usually gained through attending a professional cosmetology or hairdressing school.

Here, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in a variety of hairstyles and treatments.

Before being employed on a cruise ship, hairdressers typically need to have a few years of experience, often accumulated in a salon or spa environment.

This enables them to gain experience with a diverse client base and adapt to different hair types and styles.

In addition to this, cruise ship hairdressers will benefit from having experience in a fast-paced working environment, as they will often need to accommodate multiple clients in a single day.

They might also need to have experience with additional beauty treatments, such as manicures, pedicures, or facials, as cruise ship salons often offer a wide range of services.

For those who aim to manage the salon onboard a cruise ship, prior managerial experience would be advantageous.

This could be gained in a salon or spa, or through managing a team in a different context.

Lastly, being a hairdresser on a cruise ship requires excellent customer service skills, so experience in a customer-facing role could also be beneficial.

 

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Education and Training Requirements

Cruise Ship Hairdressers are required to complete a program in a state-licensed cosmetology school where they are trained in both theory and practice, leading to a certification or award upon graduation.

These programs cover various aspects of hair styling and care, including cutting, coloring, shampooing, and styling hair.

Knowledge about scalp treatments, hair extensions, and the use of various hair products is also crucial.

Most states and cruise ship companies require hairdressers to obtain a work license.

The criteria for obtaining this license generally require the individual to be at least 16 years old, have completed high school or equivalent education, and graduated from a state-licensed cosmetology school.

Apart from these, some cruise ship companies might also require hairdressers to have a certain amount of on-job experience before they can be hired for a cruise ship.

While not mandatory, many hairdressers pursue advanced courses or attend workshops to improve their skills and stay updated with the latest hair styling trends and techniques.

In addition to hairdressing skills, Cruise Ship Hairdressers should have good customer service skills, as they interact with a diverse clientele from different parts of the world.

They should also be able to handle the unique challenges of working in a cruise ship environment, such as working in a moving salon and adhering to the ship’s safety regulations.

 

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Salary Expectations

A Cruise Ship Hairdresser can expect to earn an average salary of around $30,000 (USD) per year.

However, this amount can vary based on factors such as experience, the cruise line company, and the geographical location of the cruise route.

Additionally, tips from clients can significantly increase the income, making this a potentially lucrative role for skilled and customer-focused hairdressers.

 

Cruise Ship Hairdresser Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Cruise Ship Hairdresser need?

A Cruise Ship Hairdresser needs to have a valid cosmetology license, which requires graduation from a state-licensed cosmetology school.

Additionally, experience in a salon environment and a knowledge of various hair cutting and styling techniques are required.

Some cruise lines may also require CPR and first aid certification.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cruise Ship Hairdresser?

A Cruise Ship Hairdresser typically starts their day by preparing their station with the necessary tools and products.

They then provide a range of hairdressing services to passengers, which may include haircuts, styling, coloring, and treatments.

As they work, they engage with customers, providing consultation and advice on hair care and styling.

They are also responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of their workstation and the salon in general.

 

What qualities make a good Cruise Ship Hairdresser?

Good Cruise Ship Hairdressers are personable and able to build rapport with a diverse range of clients.

They are adept at understanding and interpreting clients’ needs and wishes.

They have excellent hand-eye coordination and can work precisely even in a moving ship environment.

They are also adaptable, able to adjust their working hours based on the ship’s activities and the clients’ needs.

 

What challenges might a Cruise Ship Hairdresser face?

Working as a hairdresser on a cruise ship can be challenging due to the constant movement of the ship.

This can make tasks like cutting and styling hair more difficult.

Additionally, they may have to work long hours and be on their feet for extended periods.

The job also requires interacting with a diverse range of clients, which may sometimes involve dealing with difficult personalities or language barriers.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Cruise Ship Hairdresser?

Hiring a Cruise Ship Hairdresser can be challenging due to the specific qualifications and skills needed for the role.

Besides technical hairdressing skills, they need to be personable, flexible, and able to work in potentially challenging conditions.

However, the role can be attractive for those who love travel and meeting new people, making it a unique opportunity for the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of what it means to be a cruise ship hairdresser.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cutting and styling hair.

It’s about crafting memorable experiences for passengers, one snip at a time.

With our go-to cruise ship hairdresser job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to sail on this exciting career path.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next port of call for creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every hair you style contributes to the overall voyage experience.

Let’s create those memorable journeys. Together.

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