Manicurists and Pedicurists
Personal Care and Service
Customers' nails are soaked, old polish is removed, and cuticles are pushed back and trimmed. Ends are shaped and smoothed with files, scissors, or rotary wheels, then undercoat and colored or clear polish go on with a brush. Tools and the work area are cleaned and sanitized between clients, and supply levels and service records are kept. The work is close-up, repetitive hand work at a station, with conversation as part of the service. People who prefer fine motor work, a steady client pace, and listening closely to what someone wants done tend to fit this work.
Typical education: High School Diploma or GED
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$35'760
Median Wage Market Position
$35'760
What you might do
- Shape and smooth nails with files or boards
- Brush on base coat and colored polish
- Soften and trim cuticles with oil and nippers
- Soak clients' nails in soapy water
- Wipe off old polish with remover and swabs
- Clean and sanitize tools and the work area
Skills that matter
- Questions that settle shape and color
- Color, length, and aftercare explained clearly
- Cuticle and nail condition checked first
- File, soak, shape, then polish
- Learning new nail styles and finishes
- Keeping client records and supply inventories
AI & the future of this role
Nail shaping, polish, and art demand fine motor skill and close client contact that machines seldom deliver at salon quality. Inventory or booking tools may ease side tasks, yet the hands-on service is likely to stay in demand.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details