Career roadmap
How to Become a Salon Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a salon manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a salon manager: (1) work in a salon, (2) take on leadership, (3) learn business basics, (4) become a manager, (5) advance. Most people need about 2–5 years of salon experience. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a salon manager
Work in a salon
Build skills and clients.
Take on leadership
Train others or run the front desk.
Learn business basics
Sales, inventory and scheduling.
Become a manager
Lead a salon.
Advance
Manage multiple locations or open your own.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma plus salon experience is typical; many managers are licensed cosmetologists or estheticians.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 2–5 years of salon experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Cosmetology or esthetics license: Common for salon managers.
- Salon management training: Industry business courses.
- Retail sales training: Product sales skills.
- Small business courses: Helpful for future owners.
Skills to build now
Start with salon operations, scheduling software, and retail sales, and practice leadership and customer service. Learning the salon manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Stylist or Esthetician: Serve clients.
- Lead or Assistant Manager: Support operations.
- Salon Manager: Run a salon.
- Regional Manager or Owner: Lead multiple salons or own one.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Salon Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a salon manager?
Most people need about 2–5 years of salon experience of training. A high school diploma plus salon experience is typical; many managers are licensed cosmetologists or estheticians.
Do you need a degree to be a salon manager?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for salon managers?
Common credentials include Cosmetology or esthetics license, Salon management training, Retail sales training, and Small business courses. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 39-1022 (First-line supervisors of personal service workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for First-line supervisors of personal service workers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.