Shampooer

Your Fit

Income

$30K

Preparation

Some

Growth

11.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Shampooer?

A Shampooer specializes in the cleansing and conditioning of hair in a salon or spa setting. This role involves preparing clients for haircuts, styles, or treatments by performing various hair washing and care routines.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Shampooer.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Shampooer earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$22K per year	$27K per year	$30K per year	$33K per year	$36K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $18K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Shampooer do?

Work environment

Shampooers typically work in hair salons, spas, and barber shops. The environment is fast-paced and client-focused, requiring constant interaction with customers. They work closely with hairstylists and barbers, ensuring clients are ready for their hair services.

Quick task list

Washes, conditions, and rinses clients' hair.
Prepares clients for haircuts or styling by hairstylists.
Maintains cleanliness and hygiene of the shampoo area.
Assists with the application of hair treatments or masks.
Ensures client comfort throughout the shampooing process.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Salon Shampoo Specialist: Focusing on shampoo and conditioning services in a salon setting.
Spa Hair Care Assistant: Providing hair washing and care services in a spa environment, often including scalp massages and treatments.
Hair Treatment Expert: Specializing in applying specialized hair treatments like deep conditioning or protein treatments.
Mobile Shampoo Technician: Offering in-home or on-site shampooing services for clients unable to visit a salon.

Description

Being a Shampooer is an entry-level position in the field of hair care and cosmetology, offering a stepping stone to other roles in the industry. This role requires good manual dexterity and knowledge of different hair types and suitable care products. Shampooers must be skilled in various washing and massaging techniques that promote scalp health and enhance the client's salon experience.

Effective communication and customer service skills are essential, as shampooers are often the first point of contact for salon clients. They play a key role in ensuring client satisfaction and comfort, setting the tone for the client's overall salon experience. Additionally, shampooers need to maintain a clean and organized workspace, adhering to sanitation and hygiene standards.

The position offers a chance to learn and grow within the hair care industry. For those interested in a career in cosmetology, working as a shampooer provides valuable experience in a salon environment, exposure to various hair care techniques, and the opportunity to observe and learn from experienced hairstylists and cosmetologists.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Providing a relaxing and enjoyable experience for clients.
Working in a dynamic and social environment.
Opportunity for growth and learning in the field of cosmetology.
Being part of a team that enhances clients' appearance and confidence.

You might make a good Shampooer if you are...

Interested in hair care and beauty services.
A good communicator who enjoys interacting with clients.
Attentive to details and committed to maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
Skilled in providing excellent customer service.
Looking to gain experience in the cosmetology field.

Pros:

Opportunities for interaction and building customer relationships.
Pathway to further career opportunities in cosmetology.
Working in a lively and creative environment.

Cons:

The job can be physically demanding, requiring long periods of standing.
Some tasks can be repetitive.
Income and job stability may vary depending on the salon's client base and location.

How to become a Shampooer

Typical education

Most shampooer positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Formal education beyond high school is not typically necessary, but some states may require a license to perform shampooing professionally, which can involve completing a cosmetology program and passing a state exam.

High school preparation

Courses:

Business and Communication courses for developing customer service skills.
Basic Science courses, particularly chemistry, to understand hair care products.
Art or Fashion courses to develop a sense of style and aesthetics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Volunteering or part-time work in customer service roles.
Participating in beauty or fashion clubs.
Job shadowing or interning at local salons to gain firsthand experience.

Preparation after high school

Enroll in a cosmetology program if required for licensure in your state.
Seek apprenticeship or entry-level positions in salons to gain practical experience.
Attend workshops or seminars related to hair care and beauty services.

More resources

Professional Beauty Association (PBA) - Offers resources and education for beauty industry professionals.
American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) - Provides information on cosmetology schools and programs.
Salon & Spa Professional Association, Inc. (SSPA) - Offers resources, networking, and support for salon professionals.
Cosmetology State Board Licensing Requirements - Information on state-specific licensing requirements for cosmetologists.

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Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.