Licensed Cosmetologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of beauty and aesthetics, the demand for licensed cosmetologists has never been higher.

As beauty trends evolve and the desire for personal care services grows, the need for skilled professionals who can enhance, transform, and maintain our aesthetic appearance surges.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a licensed cosmetologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the scope of this role,
• A salon owner outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of cosmetology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable licensed cosmetologist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Licensed Cosmetologist Duties and Responsibilities

Licensed Cosmetologists perform a range of tasks related to beauty enhancement and skin health.

They are experts in areas such as skin care, makeup application, hair styling, and nail care.

Licensed Cosmetologists have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Consult with clients to determine their beauty goals and personal style
• Perform hair cutting, coloring, and styling according to clients’ preferences
• Apply makeup and advise clients on makeup application techniques
• Provide various skin care treatments including facials and exfoliation
• Perform manicures and pedicures, and apply nail art as requested by clients
• Stay current with latest beauty trends and new products in the market
• Recommend beauty products and treatments that best suit clients’ skin type and lifestyle
• Ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of all work areas and tools in compliance with health and safety regulations
• Handle client appointments and manage scheduling
• Take payments for services and sell beauty products

 

Licensed Cosmetologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Licensed Cosmetologist to join our team.

You will be responsible for enhancing our clients’ beauty by providing a range of hair, skin, and nail services.

The ideal candidate should have proven work experience in cosmetology, exceptional customer service skills, and a valid cosmetology license.

You will be required to stay up-to-date with the latest beauty trends and techniques to meet client demands.

Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the salon’s profitability and client satisfaction while maintaining a high level of professionalism and compliance with health and safety regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality hair, skin and nail services
• Build a strong client base through excellent customer service and communication skills
• Stay informed about the latest beauty trends and advancements in cosmetology
• Maintain cleanliness of salon and adhere to health and safety regulations
• Recommend and sell beauty products suitable for client’s individual needs
• Participate in continued education to improve skills and stay current with industry trends
• Provide advice on appropriate hairstyles or makeup techniques based on clients’ physical features and preferences
• Manage appointments and handle payments

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Licensed Cosmetologist
• Valid license from a cosmetology school
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Knowledge of beauty trends, skincare products, and cosmetics
• Physical stamina and creativity
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Product discounts

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Licensed Cosmetologist
• Work Environment: Salon or Spa setting
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Salon Manager or Spa Director
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• 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 cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Licensed Cosmetologist Do?

Licensed Cosmetologists are professionals in the beauty industry, often working in salons, spas, or beauty parlors.

They can also work as freelancers or independent contractors.

Their primary responsibilities include providing a range of beauty services to clients.

These services typically include hair cutting, styling, and coloring.

They may also offer hair treatments such as deep conditioning or keratin treatments.

Aside from hair, they often provide skin care treatments, including facial treatments, body scrubs, and makeup application.

Some cosmetologists are also trained in nail care and can provide manicures, pedicures, and nail art services.

Licensed Cosmetologists are also responsible for maintaining a clean and safe working environment.

This includes sanitizing tools and equipment, cleaning workstations, and adhering to health and safety regulations.

They often offer consultations to clients to understand their beauty goals and offer personalized solutions.

This could involve recommending certain products or treatments, or advising on hair or skincare routines.

Continual education is also a part of the role, as beauty trends and techniques are always evolving.

A Licensed Cosmetologist should keep themselves updated on the latest trends and advances in the beauty industry.

They may also perform administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining client records, and ordering supplies.

All in all, a Licensed Cosmetologist is a professional who uses their skills and knowledge to enhance the physical appearance and confidence of their clients.

 

Licensed Cosmetologist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient licensed cosmetologist should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with your job description:

• Technical skills in beauty treatments including hair styling, makeup application, skin care, and nail care to meet diverse client needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills to connect with clients, understand their needs, and build long-term relationships.
• Excellent attention to detail to ensure precise application of beauty treatments and meticulous execution of styles and looks.
• Good time management skills to efficiently manage multiple clients and complete services within allotted time frames without compromising on service quality.
• Effective communication skills to clearly understand client expectations and to provide advice on the most suitable treatments and styles.
• Customer service skills for scheduling appointments, handling transactions, resolving client issues, and ensuring overall client satisfaction.
• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and perform services requiring fine motor skills.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations to ensure all treatments are carried out in a clean, safe, and professional manner.
• Creativity and artistic ability to create unique, personalized looks that align with current beauty trends and client preferences.

 

Licensed Cosmetologist Experience Requirements

Licensed Cosmetologists typically attend state-approved beauty or cosmetology schools where they gather considerable theoretical and practical knowledge through hands-on training.

Many students gain experience while still in school by participating in school-based salons or spas, thus acquiring the required exposure to meet the qualifications for many entry-level cosmetologist positions.

Aside from the basic training, some cosmetologists may choose to specialize in areas such as skincare, hair styling, or makeup, and gain advanced experience through apprenticeships or specialized courses.

Entry-level cosmetologists usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships or part-time roles in beauty salons, spas or makeup studios.

Cosmetologists with more than 3 years of experience often develop their skills and knowledge in entry-level positions, and may be eligible for senior or specialist roles.

Those with more than 5 years of experience usually have some managerial or training experience, making them suitable for salon management or teaching roles within beauty schools.

 

Licensed Cosmetologist Education and Training Requirements

To become a Licensed Cosmetologist, individuals must first complete a cosmetology program at a state-licensed school or academy.

These programs cover a range of topics including hair styling, makeup application, skin care, and nail care.

Upon completing their training, students typically earn a certificate or diploma.

The length of these programs can vary, but most can be completed in about one year.

Every state requires cosmetologists to be licensed.

To obtain a license, individuals must be at least 16 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and have graduated from a state-approved cosmetology program.

After finishing their education, cosmetologists must also pass a state licensing exam.

This exam often includes both a written test and a practical demonstration of skills.

Although not required, many cosmetologists choose to pursue advanced specializations or certifications.

These could be in areas such as esthetics, hair coloring, or nail artistry.

These additional credentials can help cosmetologists enhance their skills, stay current with industry trends, and may lead to more job opportunities.

Moreover, because styles and techniques often change, it’s important for cosmetologists to engage in ongoing education throughout their careers.

This not only helps them keep their skills sharp but also enables them to provide the best possible service to their clients.

 

Licensed Cosmetologist Salary Expectations

A Licensed Cosmetologist earns an average wage of $15.35 (USD) per hour.

The earnings may differ based on factors such as years of experience in the field, the location of employment, and the specific services provided by the cosmetologist.

 

Licensed Cosmetologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a licensed cosmetologist need?

Licensed Cosmetologists need a blend of creative and technical skills.

They should be adept at hairstyling, applying makeup, and performing various skin and nail treatments.

They should also have an eye for aesthetics and be able to visualize and execute styles that enhance a client’s appearance.

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are also crucial, as cosmetologists need to understand their clients’ preferences and needs.

Basic business and marketing skills can also be beneficial for those who are self-employed.

 

Do licensed cosmetologists need a degree?

While a traditional four-year degree is not necessary, becoming a licensed cosmetologist typically requires completion of a state-approved cosmetology program.

After completing the program, individuals must pass a state licensing examination to become a licensed cosmetologist.

Some states may also require cosmetologists to complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.

 

What should you look for in a licensed cosmetologist’s resume?

Firstly, confirm that the candidate holds a valid cosmetology license from a state-approved cosmetology school.

Look for hands-on experience in a professional salon setting, as this indicates practical skills.

Any additional certifications in specific areas, such as hair color, skincare, or nail treatments, can also add value.

Lastly, good customer service skills and a track record of maintaining a consistent client base can signal a successful licensed cosmetologist.

 

What qualities make a good licensed cosmetologist?

A good licensed cosmetologist is creative, has an eye for detail, and keeps up with the latest beauty and fashion trends.

They must have excellent interpersonal skills to build strong relationships with their clients and understand their needs.

They should be patient, as some treatments and styles require time to perfect.

Additionally, strong problem-solving skills are necessary to recommend the right treatments or products to clients based on their specific needs and preferences.

 

Is it challenging to hire licensed cosmetologists?

The difficulty in hiring licensed cosmetologists largely depends on the specific needs of your salon or spa, as well as the current job market.

The cosmetic industry is competitive, and finding highly skilled, experienced, and licensed cosmetologists can sometimes be challenging.

Employers often have to offer competitive wages, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development to attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricate world of being a licensed cosmetologist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about applying makeup.

It’s about enhancing natural beauty and confidence, one client at a time.

With our handy licensed cosmetologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-prepared to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal next step for crafting precise listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every brush stroke contributes to the overall masterpiece.

Let’s beautify the world. Together.

How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist (Complete Guide)

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