Last Updated: April 11, 2026
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Great Clips Application Guide (2025): How to Apply Online
By the Numbers
Great Clips operates the most extensive network of hair salons in North America. Understanding the scale and structure of the company helps you position yourself as a candidate and understand career growth opportunities.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Stylists Employed | ~35,000 |
| Salon Locations (US & Canada) | 4,400+ |
| Franchise Model | 100% franchised |
| Headquarters | Minneapolis, Minnesota |
| Year Founded | 1982 |
| Average Salon Size | 8–12 stylists per location |
| Glassdoor Rating | 3.3/5 stars |
| Walk-in Model | No appointments required — drive traffic and tips |
How to Apply at Great Clips
Great Clips operates as a 100% franchise system, meaning each salon is independently owned and managed. This creates a unique application landscape: you’re not applying to a corporate entity but rather to individual franchise owners. However, the company has centralized the job search and application process through their careers portal. Most applications are submitted online, but many franchisees accept in-person visits as well. The hiring timeline is typically faster than corporate chains — many locations hire within 3–7 days of receiving an application.
Step 1: Visit the Great Clips Careers Portal
Go to jobs.greatclips.com and click “Find Jobs” or “Search Positions.” You can filter by job title (Hair Stylist, Manager, Assistant Manager), location (city, state, or ZIP code), and position type (part-time, full-time). The portal displays openings across all franchise locations in your area. Note that availability and posting frequency vary by franchisee — some locations post only when they have immediate openings, while others maintain active listings year-round.
Step 2: Review the Salon Profile and Compensation
Each salon listing includes the franchisee’s name, salon address, phone number, and details about the specific location. Importantly, compensation details vary by franchise — while Great Clips sets brand standards, individual salon owners determine base pay, tip splits, and sign-on bonuses. Many franchisees offer sign-on bonuses of $500–$2,000 to attract experienced stylists due to industry-wide stylist shortages. Review the compensation information carefully, as it may be higher at well-established or high-traffic locations.
Step 3: Create Your Candidate Profile
First-time applicants must create a profile with basic information: name, contact information, email, and phone. You can upload your résumé (though not required) and add a professional photo. If you have professional social media profiles (Instagram portfolio of your work is highly valuable in the salon industry), include links. Save your profile so you can apply to multiple locations quickly — many candidates apply to 5–10 salons simultaneously to increase interview invitations.
Step 4: Complete the Application
The application asks for your work history, availability (days/hours per week), availability to work weekends, and any specialties (color, cuts, perms, extensions, etc.). You’ll be asked to confirm you hold a valid cosmetology or barber license and that the license is current in your state — this is non-negotiable; without a license, your application will be immediately disqualified. Some franchisees include a short screening question about customer service philosophy or why you’re interested in that specific salon.
Step 5: Phone or In-Person Interview
Qualified applicants typically receive a call or text from the salon manager within 3–5 business days. The conversation is informal and brief (10–15 minutes) — the franchisee is primarily interested in confirming you hold a valid license, understanding your availability, and assessing your customer-facing attitude. Many franchise owners invite promising candidates to visit the salon in person to meet staff and see the space. In-person visits significantly increase your chances of being hired.
Step 6: Background Check and License Verification
Before hiring, the salon manager verifies your cosmetology or barber license through your state’s licensing board (this is mandatory and usually takes 1–2 days). Most franchises conduct a basic background check, though requirements vary by owner. Some locations require background clearance only if you’ll handle cash; others conduct checks on all new hires. This process typically takes 3–5 business days.
Step 7: Onboarding and First Day
Onboarding at Great Clips is faster than corporate salons. You’ll complete paperwork (W-4, I-9, direct deposit), receive a brief orientation on POS systems, salon policies, and tip-sharing protocols, and be assigned a station or station rotation. Most stylists start taking clients on their first or second day. POS and appointment/check-in systems vary by location — some use Great Clips’ proprietary system; others use independent platforms like Vagaro or Mindbody.
Great Clips Job Positions & Pay Rates
Great Clips’ franchise structure means salaries and compensation vary significantly by location. However, the company and franchisees have committed to competitive wages due to a tight labor market for cosmetologists. Here are the typical entry-level and career track positions you’ll encounter:
| Position | Starting Pay | Experienced Pay | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Stylist (Entry) | $13–$16/hr + tips | $16–$20/hr + tips | Part-time / Full-time |
| Hair Stylist (Experienced) | $18–$22/hr + tips | $22–$28/hr + tips | Full-time |
| Assistant Stylist / Shampoo Tech | $12–$14/hr + tips | $14–$16/hr + tips | Part-time / Full-time |
| Assistant Manager | $14–$18/hr | $18–$22/hr | Full-time |
| Salon Manager | $35,000–$45,000/yr | $45,000–$55,000/yr | Salaried, Full-time |
| Salon Owner (Franchisee) | Varies | $60,000–$150,000+/yr | Business ownership |
Compensation Details
Base Pay + Tips Model: Hair stylists at Great Clips earn a guaranteed hourly base (set by the franchisee) plus tips. Most stylists report that tips represent 40–60% of their total compensation, making the walk-in, no-appointment model valuable — high foot traffic = high tip potential. Popular locations and experienced stylists can earn significantly more through tips.
Sign-On Bonuses: Due to industry-wide stylist shortages, many franchisees actively offer sign-on bonuses ranging from $500 to $2,000 for experienced stylists, especially in competitive markets or for stylists who bring their own client base. These bonuses are often negotiable — don’t hesitate to ask during the interview process.
Retail Commissions: Many Great Clips locations sell salon products (shampoo, conditioner, styling products). Stylists often earn 5–10% commission on retail sales, an additional income stream beyond base + tips.
Great Clips Application Requirements
The minimum requirements for a Great Clips stylist position are straightforward but non-negotiable. The company and franchisees strictly enforce licensing requirements to maintain brand standards and comply with state regulations.
- Minimum age: 18 years old for all stylist and assistant positions. Some states allow licensed cosmetologists as young as 16 if they hold their license, but most franchises require age 18 minimum.
- Cosmetology or Barber License: This is the critical requirement. You must hold a valid, current license in your state. You can apply while your license is processing (in exam preparation phase), but the hire is contingent on obtaining the license. The franchisee will verify the license through your state’s licensing board before your first day of work.
- Availability: Great Clips salons operate Monday–Saturday, typically 9am–7pm (hours vary by location). Stylists must be available for weekend shifts — this is standard across locations. Part-time stylists typically work 15–30 hours weekly; full-time stylists work 30–40+ hours.
- Transportation: While not officially required, reliable transportation is essential. Most locations require you to arrive 10–15 minutes early to set up your station. Walk-in traffic means you cannot be late.
- Customer Service Orientation: Great Clips values friendly, approachable stylists who work well with diverse clientele. You’ll be asked in interviews about your customer service philosophy and how you handle busy periods.
- Work Authorization: You must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. The salon will verify this through I-9 compliance during onboarding.
- Background Check: Most franchises conduct a basic background check. Non-financial misdemeanors and minor issues typically don’t disqualify candidates; violent crimes or theft-related convictions are usually disqualifying.
Interview Process at Great Clips
The Great Clips interview process is typically informal and candidate-friendly compared to corporate chains. Franchisees prioritize cultural fit, attitude, and licensure over extensive interviews. Most candidates hear back with a decision (hire, hold, or no) within 3–7 days of interviewing.
What to Expect
- Phone Screen or Text: A salon manager or assistant manager calls or texts to confirm interest, availability, and license status. This is a brief 10–15 minute call. Be professional but friendly — franchisees want stylists who will mesh with the team culture.
- In-Person Visit (Optional but Recommended): If the phone screen goes well, the manager will invite you to visit the salon. This is not a formal interview but a chance to meet staff, see the space, and discuss details. Come dressed professionally in salon attire (black pants, nice top — no jeans). This step is critical: candidates who visit in person have significantly higher offer rates than those who only submit applications online.
- Salon Tour: You’ll see the salon layout, stations, break room, and POS systems. Ask about the client base (walk-in volume), busiest hours, and team dynamics.
- Conversation with Manager: Expect casual questions about your background, what services you specialize in, what type of salon environment you prefer, and your long-term career goals. Be honest about your experience level and open to feedback.
Common Great Clips Interview Questions
- “Tell me about your experience as a stylist. What services are you most comfortable with?”
- “How do you handle a client who’s unhappy with their service?”
- “Why are you interested in working at Great Clips specifically?”
- “What’s your availability — are you comfortable working weekends?”
- “Do you have your own client base, or are you looking to build one here?”
- “How do you manage your time when the salon is busy?”
Interview Tips
Be authentic and enthusiastic. Franchisees want stylists who are excited about client service and team dynamics, not just looking for any job. Highlight any specialties (color, perms, extensions, men’s cuts) because Great Clips sees diverse client needs — the more versatile you are, the more valuable you are. If you’re new to the industry or making a career change, be honest but emphasize your eagerness to learn and grow. Come with 2–3 thoughtful questions about the salon’s typical client flow, product lines, and professional development opportunities. Dress in salon-appropriate attire (business casual or salon casual) to show you take the opportunity seriously. If you have an Instagram portfolio of your work, offer to show it — visual proof of your skills is highly persuasive in salons.
Great Clips Employee Benefits
Benefits at Great Clips vary significantly by franchisee and employment status. Because the company operates as a franchise system, there is no single corporate benefits package. However, most locations offer benefits that are competitive within the salon industry.
| Benefit | Part-Time | Full-Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guaranteed Base Pay | Yes | Yes | Hourly minimum set by franchisee |
| Tip Income | Yes | Yes | Client tips (40–60% of total compensation) |
| Retail Commissions | Some | Yes | 5–10% commission on product sales |
| Flexible Scheduling | Yes | Yes | Many franchises accommodate varying schedules |
| Health Insurance | Varies | Some | Offered at select high-volume locations |
| Product Discounts | Yes | Yes | Professional products at employee discount |
| Continuing Education | Some | Yes | Training on new techniques, product lines |
| Sign-On Bonus | Varies | Yes | $500–$2,000+ for experienced stylists |
| 401(k) | Rare | Very Rare | Uncommon in franchise model; check with location |
Key Benefit Insights
Flexible Scheduling: A major draw of Great Clips is scheduling flexibility. Unlike corporate salons, many franchisees accommodate stylists’ varying needs (school, second jobs, family commitments). This makes Great Clips particularly attractive for people seeking part-time or variable-hour positions.
Professional Development: Established locations often host in-salon training on new techniques, seasonal trends, and product launches. Some franchisees budget for stylists to attend industry conferences or certification trainings (color specialist, extensions, etc.), though this is not guaranteed. Always ask during your interview about professional development opportunities, especially if you’re early in your career.
Health Insurance and Retirement: These benefits are location-dependent. High-volume franchise locations (especially in urban markets) are more likely to offer health insurance and retirement benefits. If health insurance is important to you, ask explicitly during the interview process — it’s a legitimate negotiation point.
Great Clips Competitors & Industry Context
Great Clips competes with several other franchise and corporate salon chains in the value/convenience segment. Understanding the competitive landscape helps you contextualize the offer and decide whether Great Clips is right for you.
| Competitor | Locations | Model | Pay Range | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport Clips | 1,800+ | Franchise (men’s focused) | $13–$18/hr + tips | Men’s cuts, sports environment |
| Supercuts | 1,200+ | Corporate-owned | $13–$17/hr + tips | Corporate backing, consistency |
| SmartStyle (Walmart) | 1,200+ | Corporate (Walmart) | $13–$19/hr + tips | Walmart locations, integrated retail |
| Cost Cutters | 300+ | Franchise (Regis) | $13–$18/hr + tips | Larger salons, diverse services |
| Independent Salons | Varies | Owner-operated | $15–$25/hr + tips | Flexibility, community connection |
| Upscale/Luxury Salons | Varies | Franchise or independent | $18–$40/hr + tips | Higher price point, niche clientele |
Why Stylists Choose Great Clips: The walk-in, no-appointment model drives consistent traffic, which means higher tip potential and predictable foot flow. Great Clips’ brand recognition and marketing support stylists in building client bases. The franchise system offers flexibility — each salon has its own culture and policies, allowing you to find locations that match your work style.
Glassdoor Feedback (3.3/5): Reviews mention that experience varies widely by location and franchisee. Common positives include flexible scheduling and good tip income at busy locations. Common concerns include variable compensation packages, lack of corporate benefits, and franchisee-dependent management quality. Read reviews for specific locations you’re considering before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a cosmetology license to work at Great Clips?
Yes, absolutely. You must hold a current, valid cosmetology or barber license in your state to work as a stylist at Great Clips. This is a non-negotiable requirement enforced by state law and Great Clips’ brand standards. If you’re in school pursuing your license, you can apply and express your expected graduation date, but the hire will be contingent on obtaining the license. Some states allow licensed students to work under supervision; check with your state’s cosmetology board.
How much can you make in tips at Great Clips?
Tips at Great Clips vary significantly based on location traffic and your clientele. Stylists at high-traffic urban locations report earning $15–$25+ per day in tips. In slower suburban or rural locations, daily tips may be $8–$12. On average, stylists report that tips represent 40–60% of their total compensation, making a stylist earning $15/hr base pay potentially earn $20–$25/hr total (base + tips). Busy Saturdays typically bring the highest tip income. Building a regular clientele increases tips, as returning clients often tip more and refer friends.
What is a sign-on bonus at Great Clips, and am I eligible?
Many Great Clips franchisees offer sign-on bonuses (typically $500–$2,000) to attract experienced stylists. These bonuses are offered on a per-location basis — some franchisees advertise them openly in job postings; others offer them during negotiations. Eligibility typically requires being an experienced stylist (2+ years), having a strong portfolio, or bringing your own established client base. If a sign-on bonus is not mentioned in the posting, ask the manager during your interview. It’s a legitimate negotiation point, especially if you have proven sales or client retention skills. New graduates may not qualify, but experienced career-changers often do.
Can you work part-time at Great Clips?
Yes, part-time work is common at Great Clips. Many stylists work 15–30 hours per week, often combining Great Clips with other salon work, teaching, or other careers. Flexibility is a key advantage of the franchise model — each salon owner sets their own scheduling practices. When applying, clearly communicate your desired hours and availability. Many franchisees prefer part-time stylists because it provides flexible coverage during busy periods (weekends, evenings) without requiring full-time commitments. Part-time stylists typically do not receive health insurance or retirement benefits, but do receive base pay and tips.
Is there room for career growth at Great Clips?
Career growth depends on the location and franchisee. Most Great Clips locations follow a path from Stylist → Assistant Manager → Salon Manager. If you excel in client service and operations, you can advance to assistant manager (typically $14–$18/hr) within 1–2 years, then to salon manager (typically $35,000–$50,000/yr) within 3–5 years. Some high-performing stylists or managers are recruited into multi-unit franchisee organizations for district or regional roles. However, Great Clips is not structured for extensive corporate ladder climbing — career growth is primarily tied to moving into management or becoming a franchisee owner yourself. If corporate advancement is important, check with the manager about growth opportunities at their specific salon.
What is the typical hiring timeline at Great Clips?
Great Clips moves quickly compared to corporate chains. After submitting an online application, you typically hear back within 3–5 business days if there’s interest. If you interview in person or call the salon, you may receive a job offer on the same day or within 24 hours. Once you accept an offer, background checks and license verification take 3–5 business days, and you can usually start within 1–2 weeks. Some salons need stylists urgently and can accelerate onboarding to 3–5 days. The entire process from application to first day typically takes 2–3 weeks, occasionally faster in high-need locations.
Do I need to provide my own scissors and tools?
Most Great Clips locations provide basic tools (shears, clippers, combs) or have salon-specific equipment. However, many experienced stylists prefer to use their own scissors and tools for comfort and familiarity. This is typically your choice — check with the salon manager about their policy. If you do bring your own tools, ensure they’re professional-grade and well-maintained. Some locations may ask you to register your personal tools for liability purposes.
Great Clips Career Growth & Long-Term Prospects
Great Clips offers multiple career paths depending on your goals and tenure. While many stylists treat it as a stepping stone, others build substantial careers within the franchise system.
- Stylist → Senior Stylist: Experienced stylists who build strong client bases and generate high retail sales can negotiate higher hourly rates ($20–$28/hr) and may be given preference for flexible scheduling or station selection.
- Stylist → Assistant Manager: Moving into assistant manager roles (1–2 years minimum as a stylist) puts you on a management track, earning $14–$18/hr plus potential bonus based on location performance.
- Assistant Manager → Salon Manager: After 2–3 years as assistant manager, qualified candidates can advance to salon manager, earning $35,000–$55,000/yr plus potential performance bonuses. Managers oversee staff, inventory, marketing, and daily operations.
- Salon Manager → Multi-Unit/Franchisee: High-performing salon managers are sometimes recruited into multi-unit franchisee organizations (companies that own and operate multiple Great Clips locations). These roles typically involve managing multiple salons and earning significantly more.
- Franchisee Ownership: Great Clips franchisees report earning $60,000–$150,000+ annually depending on location and volume. Franchisee requirements include liquid capital of $50,000–$75,000 and willingness to invest time in salon operations.
Red Flags & Things to Watch For
While Great Clips is a reputable brand, individual franchisee quality varies. Here are some warning signs when researching a specific location:
- Negative Glassdoor reviews about management: Read reviews for your specific location (search by address). If multiple reviews mention poor management or inconsistent pay, proceed with caution.
- Unclear compensation details: If the salon cannot clearly explain base pay, tip splits, or bonuses during your interview, that’s a red flag. Transparency matters.
- Pressure to commit without discussing details: Legitimate salons will give you time to think about an offer and answer your questions. High-pressure tactics suggest a problematic work environment.
- High turnover: If the salon is always hiring or staff members seem to change frequently, that suggests management or work environment issues.
- Cramped or poorly maintained facilities: During your in-person visit, pay attention to cleanliness, lighting, station spacing, and overall salon condition. These reflect the franchisee’s investment and professionalism.