Careers & Training

Grow with us. Own your craft. Build your business.

Salon Eighty8 is not your average salon — we’re a hybrid salon designed to support stylists at every stage of their career. Whether you're just starting out or ready to run your own business, we provide the structure, education, and creative freedom to help you thrive.

ARE YOU A GOOD FIT?

  • Must be licensed

    You’ve worked hard to earn your license, and now you’re ready to put your skills to the test in a dynamic, professional environment. At Salon Eighty8, we value your expertise and dedication to your craft.

  • Must be fashion-forward and creative

    We’re looking for stylists who are passionate about the latest trends and techniques. Your creativity is what keeps our salon at the forefront of style, helping clients look and feel their best.

  • Must be kind, respectful, and team-oriented

    At Salon Eighty8, we believe in creating a positive and supportive environment. Being kind, respectful, and collaborative is essential to building strong relationships with both our team and our clients.

Independent stylist

Designed for those with a loyal clientele or those actively building a strong following. Stylists have full control over their schedule, pricing, and business operations while still receiving ongoing support and perks from the salon.

  • Compared to the average suite rental in Chicago ($425/week or more), Salon Eighty8 offers a savings of over $240/month — plus backbar, towels, booking software, and marketing support included. Enjoy the freedom of booth rental without the high overhead of a solo suite.

  • No need to purchase your own shampoo/conditioner or styling products.

  • Item Full access to our online scheduling system, saving you ~$75+ a month

  • We promote you on our website, socials, and SEO so you stay visible

  • Complimentary snacks, coffee, tea, and water provided to elevate the client experience

  • Continued education hours included to keep your skills sharp and stay on top of trends

  • Work alongside other creatives in a beautifully designed, eco-conscious salon

Commission to Independent

For stylists with salon experience who are still growing their client base and want structured support while developing their technical skills, confidence, and business foundations. The goal is to prepare stylists to successfully step into independent chair rental within Salon Eighty8.

  • Hourly or commission (whichever is greater), so you’re always earning as you grow

  • Ongoing technical and business training to strengthen your skill set and confidence

  • We help you grow your clientele through marketing, referrals, and brand exposure

  • Join salon-wide shoots to start building your professional brand and content

  • Get 1-on-1 support in goal setting, pricing, consultations, and time management

  • Build a clear, supported bridge to transition into booth rental when you're ready

  • We showcase your work to help boost visibility and brand recognition

New Talent?

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New Talent? 〰️

Fresh out of school?

Our Associate Program is the perfect opportunity to refine your skills and get hands-on training while being part of an innovative salon culture. This self-paced, paid program will help you unleash your magic and elevate your career, allowing you to transition into a confident Level 1 stylist at Salon Eighty8. Our tight-knit, fun-loving team will support you every step of the way.

ASSOCIATE PROGRAM

Our Associates Program is designed to help you grow as a stylist while earning a living wage plus tips. This self-paced journey typically takes 6 to 9 months, depending on your hustle and progress. By the end of the program, you’ll be ready to step into the role of a Level 1 stylist, armed with the confidence and skills you need to thrive at Salon Eighty8.

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:

  • Hands-On Learning: Two to three days a week, you’ll assist our experienced stylists, including our salon owner Cynthia, with shampooing, blow-drying, toning, and other key salon tasks. This experience will give you the practical skills and confidence to work with clients’ hair while mastering the flow of the salon floor.

  • Opportunity Shifts: Once a week, you’ll have the chance to take on clients through an "opportunity shift," where you can invite friends, family, and your network to sit in your chair. As you grow and gain more experience, these shifts will increase, helping you build a loyal clientele on your journey to becoming a Level 1 stylist.

  • Education: Twice a month, you’ll attend in-depth, hands-on training sessions where we’ll cover advanced techniques in color, extensions, cuts, and more. You’ll practice on live models under the guidance of experienced stylists. Even after you graduate from the program, we encourage all of our stylists to continue their education with us.

  • Practice & Feedback: In your downtime, you’ll have the opportunity to practice on mannequins, receiving personalized feedback from our seasoned stylists. We want to ensure you have a strong foundation in cutting, coloring, and styling techniques before you graduate and take on your own clientele.