Keep in mind that there will be more opportunities and higher-paying mortuary makeup artist jobs in highly populated areas.
Ask the funeral home director if they can put you on their list of potential makeup artists.
You’ll also have to give the director a copy of your cosmetology license and show them a portfolio of your work.
If you’re just starting out, the job may start as an on-call or contract position. Once you’ve built up a bigger portfolio, you might be able to negotiate your position.
Consider taking science classes such as biology, chemistry or physics and vocational cosmetology courses.
1,000-1,500 hours of training in makeup, hair, and nails. Courses in desairology, if offered. General courses towards your associate degree.
Some states charge a separate exam fee as well as a license application fee. If you don’t pass the exam the first time, check with your state to determine how many times you can take the test. Find your state’s requirements by checking the American Association of Cosmetology School’s website or contact your state directly.
Your portfolio can either be online or in a physical binder, with the pages tucked into transparent sleeves.
Bring your file of paperwork with you to any job interviews or funeral home director meetings.
If you already have plenty of experience, continue to do this type of freelance work as a way to earn income in addition to your funeral home work.
Training in multiple mortuary fields will make you a more attractive job candidate at smaller funeral homes where they may not be able to hire a large staff.
Keep in mind that most apprenticeships are unpaid. It’s important to have your cosmetology license before you begin an apprenticeship because you’ll probably be working with deceased bodies.
Many funeral homes will want to train you according to their preferred practices.
