Makeup Department Head Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the glamorous world of film and television, the importance of the Makeup Department Head cannot be overstated.

As trends evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can create, enhance, and transform our on-screen appearances escalates.

But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s really expected from a Makeup Department Head?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager searching for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of makeup artistry,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a comprehensive Makeup Department Head job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Without further ado, let’s delve into it.

Makeup Department Head Duties and Responsibilities

The Makeup Department Head is responsible for overseeing all makeup applications, ensuring that the visual standard is met in accordance with the director’s vision.

This person is responsible for maintaining the quality of work, managing the makeup team, and coordinating with other departments.

The daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Interpreting the director’s vision for the characters’ appearances and creating appropriate makeup looks
• Developing and designing unique and appropriate makeup effects for characters
• Managing the makeup team, assigning them specific tasks and responsibilities
• Ensuring the continuity of the makeup throughout the film or television show
• Collaborating with the costume department to ensure a cohesive look for characters
• Applying makeup to actors and actresses before filming
• Touching up makeup during shooting breaks
• Maintaining hygiene and safety standards within the makeup department
• Ordering and maintaining supplies of makeup and beauty products
• Documenting makeup processes and products used for future reference
• Communicating with other departments to ensure seamless production

 

Makeup Department Head Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a creative and talented Makeup Department Head to oversee all makeup operations for our production.

The Makeup Department Head will be responsible for creating unique and stunning makeup designs, keeping in tune with the character requirements, and the aesthetic needs of the production.

The candidate will also be required to collaborate with the director, actors, and other departments to ensure a unified visual outcome.

Our ideal candidate is someone with extensive hands-on experience in professional makeup, a deep understanding of aesthetics and visual arts, and the ability to manage a team effectively.

 

Responsibilities

• Developing makeup strategies that align with the vision of the director and the production designer
• Creating unique and suitable makeup looks for each character
• Collaborating with other departments to ensure a harmonious visual output
• Keeping abreast of the latest industry trends and products
• Managing makeup department budget and resources effectively
• Ensuring all makeup tools and products are clean and safe to use
• Training and supervising makeup artists in your department
• Adhering to strict health and safety regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Makeup Artist, preferably in the film/television industry
• Proficient in various makeup techniques, prosthetics, and special effects makeup
• Outstanding leadership and organizational skills
• Strong portfolio demonstrating your skills and creativity
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Diploma or degree in Cosmetology, Fine Arts or relevant field

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Makeup Department Head
• Work Environment: Film sets, both indoor and outdoor. Some travel may be required for different shoots.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director and/or the Production Designer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $100,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Contract or 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, portfolio, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Makeup Department Head Do?

The Makeup Department Head is a vital role in film, theater, and television production.

They are responsible for creating, designing, and implementing the makeup looks for all actors appearing in a production.

They lead a team of makeup artists, ensuring that the makeup fits with the director’s vision and is consistent with the overall aesthetic of the project.

This can involve anything from creating natural, everyday looks to developing complex special effects makeup for sci-fi or fantasy productions.

In pre-production, they work closely with the director and production designer to plan the makeup requirements of the script, often doing makeup tests on actors to finalize looks.

On set, the Makeup Department Head supervises the application of makeup, often doing the makeup for the lead actors themselves.

They are also responsible for maintaining the continuity of makeup throughout the shoot, which can involve detailed note-taking and photography.

In addition to their creative and supervisory roles, they are also responsible for the health and safety of their department, ensuring all makeup and tools are hygienically maintained.

Their role also requires them to manage the makeup budget, ordering supplies, and coordinating the scheduling of their team.

This role demands excellent communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and a high level of artistic ability.

 

Makeup Department Head Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Makeup Department Head should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Expert knowledge of various makeup techniques and products, including their application and suitability for different skin types and tones.
• Leadership and management skills to oversee the makeup department, ensuring that all work is completed on schedule and to a high standard.
• Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise with actors, directors, and other department heads to understand and fulfill makeup requirements.
• Creativity and artistic skill to design and implement different makeup looks, from natural to special effects makeup.
• Attention to detail to accurately recreate makeup looks consistently throughout a project.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods and the dexterity to apply makeup precisely.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations, including sanitation practices and allergy prevention.
• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changes in script or production schedules.
• Experience with prosthetics, hair styling, or other special effects is often desirable.

 

Makeup Department Head Experience Requirements

To become a Makeup Department Head, individuals often need several years of experience in the makeup industry.

This role requires a vast knowledge of makeup techniques, types, and brands.

Many start as makeup assistants or apprentices, gaining practical experience and learning from experts in the field.

Experience in designing and applying makeup for various occasions, including film, television, theatre, or fashion, is beneficial.

This experience provides insight into how different lighting and photography can affect the appearance of the makeup.

Makeup Department Heads are expected to have a few years of experience in managing teams and coordinating makeup tasks.

This leadership experience can come from roles such as senior makeup artist or team leader in a makeup crew.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience in the industry are often considered for the Makeup Department Head position.

At this point, they should have a solid portfolio showcasing their versatility and creativity in makeup application across a range of styles and industries.

Additionally, those interested in becoming a Makeup Department Head must have a good understanding of health and safety regulations related to makeup and skincare products.

Experience in maintaining and organizing makeup inventories is also a plus.

Relevant qualifications or certifications in cosmetology, makeup artistry, or a related field can also support a candidate’s experience and expertise.

 

Makeup Department Head Education and Training Requirements

The Makeup Department Head, often seen in film and television production, usually requires an associate or bachelor’s degree in cosmetology, makeup artistry, or a related field.

These programs offer comprehensive training in makeup application techniques, color theory, and special effects makeup.

They also include lessons on contouring, highlighting, and understanding different skin types and conditions.

In addition to formal education, experience in the field is highly valued.

This can be acquired through internships, work on student films, or paid positions.

Most states require makeup artists to obtain a cosmetology license, although the requirements vary by state.

The licensing process typically involves completing a state-approved education program and passing a practical and written examination.

Continuing education is also important for a Makeup Department Head as the industry continues to evolve with new products and techniques.

This can be accomplished through workshops, courses, or certifications provided by professional beauty organizations or product manufacturers.

Furthermore, many individuals in this role pursue advanced special effects makeup training, which may involve courses in prosthetics, body painting, and other specialized skills.

Having additional certifications or special skills, such as airbrushing or hairstyling, can increase job prospects and indicate a candidate’s versatility and commitment to the field.

 

Makeup Department Head Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Makeup Department Head is $74,338 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary significantly based on factors such as the size and prestige of the production, location, and the individual’s level of experience and expertise.

 

Makeup Department Head Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Makeup Department Head need?

A Makeup Department Head needs to have a profound understanding of makeup artistry and techniques, with the ability to create a variety of looks to suit different characters and scenes.

Excellent communication and leadership skills are essential as they will be coordinating and leading a team of makeup artists.

They should also possess creativity, attention to detail, and a solid grasp of time management to meet tight filming schedules.

 

Do Makeup Department Heads need a specific degree?

A degree is not necessarily required for this role, but a diploma or certification in Cosmetology, Makeup Artistry or a related field can be beneficial.

Most importantly, Makeup Department Heads should have extensive experience in makeup application in a professional setting, particularly within the film or television industry.

 

What should you look for in a Makeup Department Head’s resume?

In addition to a robust portfolio demonstrating a range of makeup styles and techniques, a Makeup Department Head’s resume should showcase extensive experience in the film or television industry.

Look for evidence of leadership skills and the ability to manage a team, as well as experience with special effects makeup if relevant for the project.

Previous work on similar types of productions can be a significant advantage.

 

What qualities make a good Makeup Department Head?

A good Makeup Department Head is highly creative and has a keen eye for detail, allowing them to design and execute makeup looks that enhance the visual storytelling of a production.

They have strong leadership skills and can effectively manage a team of makeup artists under high-pressure conditions.

They are also excellent communicators, able to liaise with directors, actors, and other departments to ensure makeup concepts align with the overall vision of the project.

 

What is the difference between a Makeup Department Head and a Makeup Artist?

While both roles require expertise in makeup application, a Makeup Department Head holds a more senior position.

They are responsible for overseeing the entire makeup department, including developing makeup concepts, coordinating with other departments, managing a team of makeup artists, and ensuring consistency in makeup application throughout a production.

A Makeup Artist, on the other hand, works under the direction of the Makeup Department Head to apply makeup on actors as per the designed looks.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the artistry that goes into being a Makeup Department Head.

Guess what?

It’s not just about applying makeup.

It’s about bringing characters to life, one stroke of the makeup brush at a time.

With our definitive Makeup Department Head job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into the spotlight.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your passport to creating detailed job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every stroke of the makeup brush contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.

How to Become a Makeup Department Head (Complete Guide)

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