What does a Spa Therapist do?
Spas provide a variety of services for clients, including massages, facials, soaks, aromatherapy and body wraps. A Spa Therapist may be expected to administer many services or have one key area of focus, depending on the employer’s needs. Either way, they are one of the key determiners of client satisfaction. When they meet or exceed expectations when performing Spa Therapist job duties, they can ensure that clients have a good experience and are eager to return for future services. In addition, satisfied clients may refer others, helping the spa’s business to grow. The inventory control aspect of a therapist’s responsibilities reduces the risk of loss due to theft, and by suggesting additional services and products, professionals in the field may increase sales revenue for their employers.
Spa Therapist skills and qualifications
People who are successful in Spa Therapist careers often have similar skills. Seeing the following qualifications on a resume for a Spa Therapist position may indicate a quality candidate:
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Interviewing skills for gathering client information before performing a service
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Ability to utilize the equipment and perform the techniques necessary to perform services
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Customer service skills to respond positively when clients express concerns
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Ability to remain upright for long periods of time
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Oral communication skills to explain procedures in simple, clear terms
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Knowledge of best practices for therapies and health and safety regulations
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Ability to transport equipment and supplies that may weigh up to 50 lbs. from one place to another
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Familiarity with customer relationship management and email software
Spa Therapist experience requirements
How much experience a candidate needs to succeed in an open position depends on the specific Spa Therapist job duties they will be responsible for. Therapists who will only perform basic services may need little to no experience beyond the requirements established by the state for licensing. Those expected to administer more specialized services, such as hot stone massages, may need one or more years of previous work history. If job duties involve training other specialists, you may wish to focus on candidates who have worked in the field for three or more years. Previous supervisory experience may be beneficial for therapists who will serve as shift supervisors for other therapists.
Spa Therapist education and training requirements
All states require estheticians and massage therapists to hold licenses. Although requirements vary, most licensing programs require the completion of an approved training course. Training programs may award certificates or associate degrees, and most include a minimum number of hands-on experience hours to fulfill licensing requirements. After receiving the necessary training, prospective licensees must pass an examination that usually consists of written and skills demonstration sections. If your open position is for a therapist that will perform one specific type of service, you may wish to look for candidates who hold voluntary certification in the technique.
Certification usually involves the completion of a specialized training course and passing an exam. Some common certifications for Spa Therapists include the Board Certification in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB) credential from the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork and the Sports Massage credential offered by the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA).
Job description samples for similar positions
If the Spa Therapist job description provided above doesn’t completely align with your spa’s needs, consider these related positions:
Spa Therapist job description FAQs
How is a Spa Therapist different from a Spa Attendant?
A Spa Therapist is responsible for performing the services offered by a spa. A Spa Attendant may assist a therapist with preparing equipment and treatment areas, but they don’t administer services to clients. Some other responsibilities of Spa Attendants include washing linens, distributing locker room keys and escorting clients from one area of the spa to another.
What qualities make a good Spa Therapist?
A good Spa Therapist enjoys working with other people and takes satisfaction in helping others. Empathy and patience can help a therapist maintain their professionalism when working with difficult people. Because maintaining licensure usually involves ongoing education requirements, an interest in continuing to learn is also beneficial.
What makes a good Spa Therapist job description?
Spa Therapist job duties can vary widely, making it important that your job description is specific about what services the new hire will perform. Describing the clientele and atmosphere of the spa can help candidates determine if they are a good fit. Outlining the benefits and perks of employment, such as health insurance, paid time off and employee discounts may help attract quality candidates.
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