What does a Nail Technician do?

Nail Technicians work as both in-house employees and freelance independent contractors in nail salons, hair salons, hotels and spas. Some Nail Technicians also work on cruise ships and in nursing homes or assisted living communities. They use sterilized tools and equipment to clean and trim fingernails and toenails and consult with clients on polish colors and manicure style preferences.

Nail Technicians are specially trained to apply artificial acrylic and gel nails, and they must follow strict safety protocols when working with chemicals. Additionally, some Nail Technicians specialize in nail art and use special techniques to create unique images and designs on clients’ nails.

Nail Technician skills and qualifications

Nail Technicians work in a variety of settings, and some nail salons are fast-paced, with customers coming in at a steady rate throughout each day. Good multitasking skills and quick decision-making skills are essential for Nail Technicians. Individuals seeking Nail Technician careers should also possess the following skills and qualifications to successfully perform the various duties of the position:

• Excellent customer service skills

• Attention to detail

• Past work in a salon setting and/or Nail Technician training

• Strong communication skills

• Friendly demeanor/ability to chat with customers when performing manicures and pedicures

Nail Technician experience requirements

Since Nail Technicians apply acrylic and gel nails and work with specialized tools and chemicals, past experience in a nail salon, hotel or as a freelance Nail Technician is usually required. Experienced Nail Technicians should also have a strong understanding of sterilization procedures for tools and equipment, and they should be familiar with advanced nail techniques such as French manicures and nail art.

Nail Technicians interact with the public regularly, so certain employers may prefer Nail Technician candidates with previous customer service experience. Additionally, some salons may require that applicants have experience working with cash registers and/or credit card machines to process payments for services rendered.

Nail Technician education and training requirements

Specific Nail Technician education and training requirements can vary from state to state, and most states require Nail Techs to hold Nail Technician licenses. Age requirements for Nail Technician licenses also vary by state, with the minimum age being 16 or 17.

Licensing requirements can vary across different states and may require a combination of theoretical and practical training.

Nail Technician salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Nail Technician is $21.63 per hour. However, a Nail Tech’s specific pay rate can vary based on factors such as geographical location, employer salary preferences and tips and gratuities.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Nail Technician job description isn’t exactly what you’re looking for, here are some similar positions to consider:

• Cosmetologist

• Salon Manager

Nail Technician job description FAQs 

Are Nail Technicians and Manicurists the same?

While the terms “Nail Technician” and “Manicurist” are often used to describe the same position, there are differences between the two. Manicurists offer basic services such as filing and painting fingernails and toenails, while Nail Technicians are trained in specialty areas such as applying acrylic nails and nail art. However, Nail Technicians can also provide the same basic services as manicurists. 

Are Nail Technicians hourly, salaried or freelance?

Nail Technicians are hired as hourly employees, salaried employees and freelance contractors, based on the requirements of the establishment. For example, a hotel may hire a Nail Technician as an in-house hourly or salaried employee, while a smaller salon may prefer to hire a freelance contractor on an as-needed basis.

Do Nail Technicians receive tips in addition to base pay?

While specific tipping rules may vary depending on the establishment, it is generally considered customary to tip Nail Technicians. Tip amounts are typically determined by the clients, and the standard tip for manicure or pedicure services is 20% of the total service cost.