Build your career as a Nail Technician

beauty & retail

Nail Technician

A career as a nail technician is not just a job—it’s a chance to unleash your creativity and build a rewarding career in the beauty industry. Imagine shaping stunning nails, designing eye-catching nail art, and providing expert care that leaves clients feeling pampered and confident. Nail businesses are thriving, offering flexibility, financial independence, and diverse career paths—whether you choose to work in a salon, start your own business, or freelance.

If you’re passionate about beauty and creativity, now is the perfect time to start your career as a nail technician and be part of this growing industry

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EMPLOYED 36,100
PART-TIME SHARE 61%
AVERAGE FULL-TIME HOURS 42
MEDIAN WEEKLY EARNINGS $959

A career as a nail technician in Australia is on the rise, with strong job growth and increasing demand for skilled professionals. Employment opportunities are expanding, with a 12.2% job growth expected over the next five years. As clients seek high-quality, customised services, staying ahead of trends and upgrading your skills is essential. Investing in further education and certifications can help build a loyal client base, boost earning potential, and open doors to high-end salons or self-employment opportunities.

Gender Split

Created with Highcharts 11.1.0MaleFemale

Employment by State

Created with Highcharts 11.1.032.6%​32.6%25.2%​25.2%20.4%​20.4%6.3%​6.3%12%​12%1.5%​1.5%0.6%​0.6%1.4%​1.4%

Highest Level of education (%)

Created with Highcharts 11.1.02.4%​2.4%7.3%​7.3%14.5%​14.5%22.1%​22.1%45.7%​45.7%6.5%​6.5%1.5%​1.5%Below Year 10Years 11 & 10Year 12Certificate III/IVAdvanced Diploma/DiplomaBachelor DegreePost Graduate/ Graduate Diploma or Graduate Certificate0%10%20%30%40%5%15%25%35%45%50%

Age Brackets

Created with Highcharts 11.1.015-1920-2425-3435-4445-5455-5960-6465 and over

What can you expect from working as a Nail Technician?

Nail technicians specialise in enhancing the appearance and health of clients' nails through a range of professional treatments. Key duties typically include:

  • Nail Enhancements: Applying gel and acrylic nail enhancements and extensions to achieve desired nail length and strength.
  • Manicures and Pedicures: Performing manicures and pedicures, including nail shaping, cuticle care, and polish application.
  • Specialist Tools & Equipment: Using specialist tools and electrical equipment to shape and refine nail enhancements.
  • Nail Art: Applying decorative and airbrushed nail art to create customised designs.
  • Hygiene & Safety: Maintaining safe work practices and hygiene standards to ensure client and workplace safety.
  • Product Recommendations: Reading and interpreting product information to make safe and appropriate recommendations for clients.
  • Client Transactions: Conducting financial transactions, including processing payments and handling sales.
  • Reception Duties: Managing bookings, arranging appointments, and providing customer service.
  • Housekeeping: Performing routine housekeeping duties to maintain a clean and organised workspace.
  • Client Records: Keeping accurate records of client treatments and preferences for future reference.
  • Product Sales & Advice: Providing advice about nail care and selling relevant nail products.
  • Industry Knowledge: Staying up to date with current industry standards and best practices.

How to become a Nail Technician?

To become a Nail Technician in Australia, you typically need a Certificate III. Online courses offer flexible learning, covering nail care, art, and salon management, helping you gain skills and qualifications while balancing other commitments.

SHB30321

Certificate III in Nail Technology

Get ready to become a nail technician! Take your nail expertise to a professional level by learning how to give salon-quality manicures and pedicures, nail enhancements (dip-powder, gel and acrylic), as well as advanced nail art!   Make your mark and...
View Course

*The information on this page is sourced from the Jobs and Skills Australia website, based on their occupational data collected in May 2024. Where job titles may not be exact matches, related job areas have been used. This data is intended as a guide only.

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