What Are the Job Opportunities for Professional Nail Artists?

As a newly graduated nail artist, you’ll have various opportunities to explore when embarking on a new career. Completing a nail technician program at a beauty school is the first step toward becoming a licensed professional in your chosen field. This training equips you with the skills needed to excel in a myriad of settings, such as nail salons, spas, or even your own business.

In this article, we will plunge into the tried-and-true and the more unconventional careers you may be eligible for as a nail tech.

Career moves for skilled nail technicians

With the expertise you’ll gain from a nail technician program, you can specialize in nail art, gel nails, or acrylic nails, providing services that cater to different client preferences. This career path is diverse and offers growth opportunities, allowing for roles from salon management to nail technician educators, all rooted in a passion for nails and the beauty industry.

There is a wide range of nail careers available to recent graduates and a growing demand for nail technicians. Here are a few positions that may be accessible to those specializing in nails:

• Work on cruise ships
• Work in editorial
• Work in salons
• Work in spas and resorts
• Become a nail salon owner

Which programs should aspiring nail techs enroll in? 

Anyone aspiring to become a beauty professional should enlist in a cosmetology program. Most cosmetology courses build in different techniques spanning many professions. Some technical skills you may learn in a traditional cosmetology program include makeup artistry, nail services, hair cutting, coloring, and styling, and gaining hands-on experience with your peers and clients.

At Evergreen Beauty College, we offer a nail tech program where students are immersed in nail anatomy and nail care services, from theoretical studies to hands-on training. You will learn how to prevent infection, maintain a sanitary and safe space, and provide efficient services to clients. 

What are students saying about Evergreen Beauty College?

Most of our students report feeling prepared to take the board exam by the end of the program. Before students can earn their nail technician license, they must pass the licensing exam. Evergreen prepares you for the practical exam through hands-on training in nail care services, as well as online coursework.

Megan, an Evergreen Beauty College graduate, reported having a memorable and positive experience with her instructor. Her instructor catered to each student and gave her confidence as she progressed through each stage of the program. Our instructors have years of experience working with students.

Take a look at our student testimonials, which share a wealth of stories about their experiences with our faculty.

Is Evergreen Beauty College right for you?

Whether you want to be a manicurist, barber, esthetician, hair stylist, or beauty instructor, Evergreen Beauty College offers courses in each specialty, allowing students to focus on their chosen craft, hone their techniques, work with real clients—who could become potential clients—and set themselves up for the best chance to have a flourishing career in cosmetology.

Learn if a future career in cosmetology is right for you by taking this brief survey.

At Evergreen, you’ll learn how to multitask while getting a concrete understanding of what it’s like to work in a hair salon. After studying in a safe classroom environment, you will receive additional training on real clients in our on-campus salon.

Evergreen has a job placement board and will give you access to a community where you can network and find your footing in the nail industry through community and industry events.

Learn about our financial aid options and visit our campus to speak to students and instructors in person to determine whether a future as a professional nail artist is right for you.

FAQs: What are the job opportunities for professional nail artists?

What are the potential careers after completing a nail artist program?

As a nail professional, some of the paths you can pursue include:

• A technician working in a spa or salon
• Mobile manicurist
• An instructor
• Editorial artist
• Salon owner
• Influencer

What are the required hours of training to complete a nail technician program in Washington state?

In Washington state, students are required to complete 600 hours of training at a licensed school. Upon graduating, students must take their board exam to be eligible to work in a salon or spa in Washington state. Each state may have varying rules.

How do I know if a career in nail technology is right for me?

Being a licensed nail technician is a rewarding career. There are many job opportunities to pursue with the growing demand for creativity in nail art. If you have a passion for nail art and like having a flexible work schedule, this may be the career for you. A nail artist’s average salary is as high as $38.48, as reported by ZipRecruiter in July 2024.