Cosmetology Career Paths > Nail Technician Career Information
Nail Technicians are licensed professionals who specialize in the care and beautification of the hands and feet. Healthy nails are always a priority. Nail technicians are very precise and meticulous. They are artists who work magic on small canvases.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Customer service
- Communication
- Sanitation
- Able to recognize a healthy nail vs. a diseased nail
*Salary & Pay scale information
Nail Technicians may work for salary, commission, hourly or salary vs. commission. They may also be independent contractors. Booth or suite rental in certain states.
Key skills
- Manicures and pedicures
- Acrylic nails, both sculpted and overlay.
- Fabric wrap overlay
- Gel polish application
- Powder dip manicures
- Various types of nail art
- Massage techniques
Outlook
Average salary in the US is $39,400 with 1-2 years of experience. More experience = higher salary. The nail care market is expected to grow by $2.40 billion by 2025 and reach $11.6 billion by 2027
Glassdoor reports an average total pay as of Dec 2021 at $66,325 when base pay and additional pay are included in the annual rate.
Environment
- Salons
- Spas
- Booth/suite
- Trade shows
- Resorts/cruises
- Nursing Homes
- Product rep
- Nail influencer
Schedule
Part time, full time, nights and weekends. Flexibility is a must.
How To Get Started as A Nail Technician
Most nail technicians start by attending and graduating from cosmetology school. Empire Beauty School offers cosmetology education to 21 states in the USA. Get more information on our Nail Technology program page. Get started by requesting information on our application page.
6 Comments
I’m interested in becoming an nail tec
How much is nail course?
Good day
I’m interested, I did a gel Bio sculpture and Evo gel course, in 2019
I did some clients nails and I do my own.
It is my passion. Beauty.
I’m looking for a nail technician job in the USA.
Hello, I’m reaching out to see how much in total it costs to attend nail school, and how long to complete it.
Will you never consider a nail program for down east Maine again . It’s very evident that one can’t drive to and leave their home in Washington county to southern Maine for the months needed to obtain the 200 hours . I went to nail tech school many years ago and moved from the state that I obtained my license that requires continuing education every year to keep it I let my license lapse in 2001 after having it active 15 years . I just want to be licensed in Maine . Any options in this state ? I have no interest in doing hair ..
Was looking to see how much the nail technician class would be. Mainly would be paying out of pocket.