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What is a Nail Technician and What do they do?

Manicurists and nail techs aren’t necessarily required to have a background in cosmetology before working in their preferred job post. Although many manicurists work extensively with cosmetics, the most crucial skill for manicurists and nail techs is being comfortable working in very close contact with your clients.

Professionals looking to work in the nail technician industry are well-known for their diverse skill sets.

In addition to manicures and pedicures, nail techs commonly find themselves completing the following tasks:

  • Polishing and buffing nails
  • Promoting and even selling in-house nail care and skincare products
  • Customer service
  • Providing an open ear for clients to share and communicate daily concerns
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Filing, cleaning, and moisturizing nails, hands, and feet
  • Light massage
  • Nail applications and skilled nail painting services

One thing to note is the added benefits that many technicians find are also available in similar professions like hair styling. While it’s not necessary to have a professional background in cosmetology to land your dream job as a nail technician, a resume that includes experience with hair, massage, and other relevant professions will increase your marketability.

People interested in extending their career into nail technology should know that many of their tasks can put you close to chemicals and sharp utensils, and payment can change according to the development of something similar to a “bed-side manner,” i.e., having a kind expression and comfortable, understanding demeanor.

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Steps to Become a Nail Technician

  • Step 1: Education Requirements

  • Step 2: Internship or Apprentice

  • Step 3: Licensing & Certifications

  • Step 4: Continuing Education and License Maintenance

steps-to-take-nail-tech-careers

Step 1: Education Requirements

To enroll in most cosmetology programs for manicurists, you need to be 16 years old, have a GED or high school diploma, and pay the program’s dues. Additionally, some programs will ask applicants to conduct an entrance interview with school representatives to evaluate how ready applicants are for the program. If you find yourself lacking the appropriate credentials, there are resources out there that will allow you to quickly gain a GED with the guidance of nationally-certified pros.

The path to becoming a licensed manicurist or nail technician is paved with excellent resources and easy-to-understand professional requirements. However, the amount of time it takes to get into the field depends on your state and program. Most nail technician programs require around 300 hours of training, which applicants spread out over about 15 weeks.

For clarity, manicurists and nail technicians have to complete equivalent training and testing or apprenticeships to be licensed to practice. The good news is that training can be quick, and licenses are relatively straightforward to acquire. Every state except Connecticut requires licenses. Students go through between 200 and 700 hours of training, complete a written exam, and pass a final practical exam. Now, let’s get into more of the details.

Step 2: Internship or Apprentice

Most nail technician programs offer hands-on training as part of the curriculum. Prospective nail technicians are also often required to complete an internship at a local salon. Some schools even have a built-in salon. Internships are usually completed during the final term of the student’s education and lead directly to board and licensure exams. These internships are a practical way or students to get in actual working hours as a nail technician, which is invaluable when it’s time for the practicum exam. Another perk of internships is that, in the case of an externship with a local business, a job offer can often follow once the student completes their education and attains a license.

Step 3: Licensing & Certifications

The best resource to check out before you go off investigating the programs available to you in your state is the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC). Their site offers exam prep tips, resources for state-to-state certification, and ways to stay up to date with current cosmetology news. For most students, training programs will consist of three distinct phases: training, a written exam showing technical expertise and knowldge of proper rules and standards, and a practical exam performed in person with a live model. A small number of programs operate with an apprenticeship system, as well.

Most programs have price tags above $1,000. In Utah, the Paul Mitchell school asks for $1,818, a $100 application fee, $2,400 in tuition fees, and around $2,000 in equipment. Students should be aware that these rates fall on the low end when compared to nationwide options.

Most nail technician programs will ask for between 300 to 600 hours of training before the testing component. While some applicants can surpass the average completion time depending on the amount of training each program permits students to accomplish, the majority of nail technicians gain their certificate in three to nine months.

Go to your state-approved local program for more information. Each state requires a different amount of training and testing. Inquiring with instructors in your state will help narrow down the time commitments and exam requirements you’ll have to fulfill on the way to gaining your well-deserved license!

Step 4: Continuing Education and License Maintenance

Armed with a state-certified cosmetology license, the future is open for almost unlimited movement into other industries or upward toward self-ownership of your own salon or spa.

About 50% of US states demand technicians keep up to date with current best practices, industry news, and regulations by taking periodic CE (or continuing education) classes. This is a great opportunity to grow your professional development with more extensive training.

The necessary time commitments change from state to state, and some states only demand CE credits from instructors, like Oklahoma and Virginia. The requirements vary. In Vermont, a nail technician must take renewal CE courses every two years while Wyoming works under a different calendar.

The point is, people invested in developing their education as a nail technician or manicurist have lots of opportunities to expand their skill sets to adjacent industries. Ever thought about checking out hair or massage therapy to supplement your existing techniques? There is lots of space available to move horizontally from one specialty to another, all while maintaining your license as a licensed cosmetologist.

Where Do These Specialists Work?

Nail technicians typically work in a variety of settings, including salons, spas, and beauty clinics. Many work in dedicated nail salons that specialize in manicures, pedicures, and nail art. Some technicians may also find opportunities in resorts, cruise ships, or even at-home salons. Additionally, nail technicians can be self-employed, running their own businesses or providing mobile services to clients. The work environment is often fast-paced and requires strong customer service skills.

The majority of nail technicians work full-time, 8-hour days, though variable schedules are typical.

Why Get Into This Field?

Becoming a manicurist or nail technician offers many benefits, including the flexibility of self-employment, working in various locations, and showcasing advanced nail skills. About 70% of nail technicians work in personal care services, while the remaining 28% are self-employed. Starting your own business may seem daunting, but the potential for higher income makes it a worthwhile option.

In May 2023, the average hourly wage for manicurists and pedicurists was $16.47, or $34,250 annually, with opportunities to increase earnings through flexible work schedules. Self-employed technicians, for example, may work longer hours. Job availability is also strong, as most large and medium-sized US cities need nail technicians, especially since many businesses experience high demand on weekends, evenings, and before and after holidays. This creates a consistent need for qualified professionals.

As trends toward healthy, fashionable lifestyles rise, so does the demand for professional nail products and technicians. Grooming and wellness are popular among all genders, and customers are eager to experience the expert services of affordable luxury technicians like manicurists.

Professional Organizations

Nail technicians and manicurists often belong to the same organizations as cosmetologists, but there are also organizations specifically created for nail technicians and manicurists. Below is a list of some organizations a nail technician can join once they enter their field.

  • Associate Nail Professionals
    The ANP caters to nail professionals by offering continuing education courses, networking opportunities, and general advice for a nail technician who works for salons or own their own shop.
  • Professional Beauty Association
    The PBA is an international association for people working in the beauty industry. They offer classes and seminars and hold an annual convention in locations across the United States.
  • International SalonSpa Business Network
    ISBN offers training and networking opportunities and holds an annual convention. It caters to spa and salon owners.

Nail Technician Career and Salary

A career as a nail technician can offer both flexibility and creativity, with opportunities to work in various settings such as salons, spas, and even independently as a self-employed professional. In May 2023, the average hourly wage for manicurists and pedicurists was $16.47, equating to an annual salary of around $34,250. However, pay can vary depending on factors like location, experience, and whether you are self-employed or work for a salon. Self-employed nail technicians, for example, may earn more due to the ability to set their own rates and work longer hours. Additionally, with a growing demand for nail services driven by trends in grooming and wellness, job prospects are strong, with many openings available in both large and small cities.

State-approved cosmetology or nail technician programs have always asked for more applicants. Still, under today’s economy, the time has never been more appropriate for the nail technicians and manicurists of the future to invest their time and money in a state license.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 12% increase in demand for manicurists’ services in the next ten years. Demand is high! With a relatively low cost of entry, a few hundred hours of training, and a passing grade, you can realize your dreams to become a manicurist or nail technician starting tomorrow!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the workplace like?

Nail technicians generally work in salons with other nail technicians. They typically have a station with their tools where they work on clients. They may also work from their home or travel to clients homes.

How long does it take to get into this role?

You will be required to earn a state license to work as a nail technician in every state except Connecticut. Each state will have a specific requirements for length of time for a training program. Most programs require around 300 hours of training. That will typically take around 15 weeks.

Where can you find work in this field?

Nail technicians can work in many different locations. They can work in nail or hair salons, gyms, health centers, spas, hotels, airports, cruise ships, and many other places.

How much can you make?

Nail technicians make around $28,000 on average annually.

What qualities make you good in this role?

A nail technician needs patience, creativity, good customer service, and have a strong passion for nails.

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