Thinking about starting your career in the beauty industry or searching for a new opportunity close to home? If you’re trained or certified in skincare and beauty treatments, you might be wondering how to find the best esthetician jobs near you. With the spa and salon industry continuing to grow, especially in urban and suburban areas, there’s never been a better time to explore your options and discover where your talents can shine.
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TLDR:
Looking for esthetician jobs nearby involves more than just a Google search. Use job boards, industry-specific platforms, and local networking events to get started. Consider what type of setting you want—day spas, med spas, salons, or dermatology clinics—and tailor your resume accordingly. Staying updated with certifications and maintaining a business-friendly social media profile can also help boost your chances.
What Does an Esthetician Do?
Before diving into job opportunities, it’s important to understand the range of services and environments estheticians work in. An esthetician is a licensed skin care specialist who provides cosmetic skin treatments ranging from facials and exfoliation to hair removal and makeup application. Some estheticians also choose to specialize in medical aesthetics, partnering with dermatologists or plastic surgeons to offer advanced treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, or microdermabrasion.
Common duties for estheticians include:
- Evaluating clients’ skin conditions and needs
- Recommending appropriate skin care routines and products
- Performing facial and body treatments
- Maintaining hygienic tools and work areas
- Staying updated on skin care trends and techniques
Where Do Estheticians Work?
You’d be surprised by the variety of places that are hiring estheticians today. Understanding your preferred work environment will help narrow down your job search.
Popular workplace settings include:
- Day Spas: These offer a relaxing environment where beauty is the focus, with clients seeking treatments like facials, body wraps, and waxing.
- Medical Spas: Also known as med spas, these combine medical procedures with spa experiences. Aesthetic treatments may include Botox, fillers, laser resurfacing, and more.
- Salons: While traditionally hair-focused, many full-service salons now hire estheticians for brow shaping, lashes, makeup, and skin services.
- Dermatology Clinics: Here, estheticians assist in medically supervised skin treatments. These roles usually require additional certifications.
- Freelance or Mobile Services: Some estheticians prefer the freedom of running their own business, offering mobile spa services or renting booth space.
How to Start Searching for Esthetician Jobs Near You
Once you know what type of work environment you’re aiming for, it’s time to begin your search. Simply typing “esthetician jobs near me” into a search engine can be a starting point, but you’ll need a more comprehensive strategy to uncover the best openings.
1. Use Online Job Boards
Sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, ZipRecruiter, and LinkedIn offer a large number of job postings. Use filters to sort by location, job type, and experience level. Don’t forget to set alerts so you’re notified when new positions open up in your area.
2. Explore Industry-Specific Job Sites
In addition to general job boards, explore niche platforms that cater to the beauty and wellness industry:
- SalonEmployment.com
- Beauty Careers
- Modern Salon Job Search
3. Check Local Spa and Salon Websites
Some businesses don’t post on job boards but instead update their own websites with openings. Make a list of the top-rated spas or salons in your area and regularly check their “Careers” or “Join Our Team” pages.
4. Network in Your Community
Reach out to people in your local beauty community. Attend industry mixers, beauty expos, or trade shows where hiring managers or owners might be looking for new talent. Word of mouth and a good recommendation can go a long way in this industry.
5. Use Social Media
Follow local spas and salons on Instagram or Facebook. Many businesses announce openings in their stories or posts. Also, use platforms like Facebook Groups focused on esthetician careers or local beauty professionals.
Upgrade Your Resume and Portfolio
When applying for esthetician roles, your resume and portfolio are crucial in making a strong first impression. Here’s what to focus on:
- Certifications: Make sure your state license and any special certifications (like microblading or laser treatment) are up to date.
- Experience: Detail your specific treatments and products you’ve worked with.
- Portfolio: Include before-and-after photographs (with client consent) of your work in facials, brows, makeup, or other specialties.
- Soft Skills: Highlight customer service experience, communication, and professionalism.
What Do Employers Look for in Estheticians?
Whether it’s a high-end spa or a neighborhood salon, employers tend to seek candidates who bring more than just technical skills to the table. Below are some traits that can help you stand out:
- Professionalism: Timeliness, proper attire, and courteous interaction with clients.
- Passion for Skincare: A visible enthusiasm for helping clients achieve great skin health.
- Flexibility: Willingness to work evenings or weekends when needed.
- Sales Ability: Comfort with recommending and selling skincare products.
- Team Spirit: Positive energy, good communication, and the ability to support coworkers.
How Much Do Estheticians Earn?
Pay varies based on location, experience, and setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for skincare specialists in the U.S. is around $19 to $24, but those working in high-end spas or med spas may earn significantly more through tips and commissions.
Other Compensation Perks:
- Service commission (percentage of what the client pays)
- Product sales commission
- Hourly base pay plus tips
- Employee discounts on services and products
Future Outlook for Esthetician Jobs
The future is bright for skincare professionals. According to projections, skincare specialist employment is expected to grow by 17% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than average for all occupations. This growth is driven by increased consumer interest in self-care, anti-aging treatments, and natural beauty solutions.
If you’re keeping up with new technologies and certifications, such as LED light therapy or dermaplaning, you’ll be better positioned for success in a competitive job market.
Final Thoughts
Searching for esthetician jobs near you doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By knowing what environment suits you best, using targeted job search tools, and keeping your resume and portfolio polished, you’ll increase your chances of landing the perfect role. Remember that in the world of beauty and wellness, your passion and professionalism are just as important as your technical skills.
Whether you’re fresh out of esthetics school or a seasoned pro looking for a change, there’s likely a spa, salon, or clinic looking for someone just like you!