How To Become A Cosmetic Counter Manager: What It Is and Career Path

What is a cosmetic counter manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

3 min read

Cosmetic counter managers are responsible for supervising the complete operations of the cosmetics line. They ensure a high level of productivity and customer satisfaction through extensive product knowledge and outstanding customer service. They also review and analyze the business performance of daily, weekly, monthly, seasonal, and annual sales results. Cosmetic counter managers earn a median sum of $30 per hour, which amounts to roughly $62,400 per year.

Cosmetic counter managers train new employees on the different responsibilities and the equipment used, and they direct the work of a team or group of assistants. They coach new sales representatives on different products, as well as how to consult with customers. They also develop and monitor sales staff while working to maintain relationships with key suppliers.

Although no formal education is required to be a cosmetic counter manager, it may help to hold a bachelor's degree in a related field. They are expected to have some years of experience in a similar role. Some employers prefer candidates with excellent customer service and leadership skills with the ability to establish themselves as successful sales representatives or consultants for a few years.

ScoreCosmetic Counter ManagerUS Average

Salary

3.1

Avg. Salary $39,207

Avg. Salary $59,228

Diversity

8.4

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.65%

Asian 6.91%

Black or African American 8.39%

Hispanic or Latino 17.70%

Unknown 4.64%

White 61.71%

Gender

female 92.10%

male 7.90%

Age - 42

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 42

Stress level

9.4

Stress level is very high

7.1 - high

Complexity level

5.2

Complexity level is intermediate

7 - challenging

Work life balance

4.6

Work life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

Key steps to become a cosmetic counter manager

Explore cosmetic counter manager education requirements

Most common cosmetic counter manager degrees

Bachelor's

45.7 %

Associate

24.3 %

High School Diploma

15.3 %

Start to develop specific cosmetic counter manager skills

Skills	Percentages
Product Knowledge	33.92%
Make-Up	19.48%
Customer Service	11.10%
Customer Relationships	8.09%
Customer Preferences	4.40%

Complete relevant cosmetic counter manager training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New cosmetic counter managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a cosmetic counter manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real cosmetic counter manager resumes.

Research cosmetic counter manager duties and responsibilities

Manage accounting functions on a daily basis, AR/AP, and cash handling using QuickBooks.
Manage the Clarins counter, charge with a prime objective of developing brand awareness of the French base cosmetics line.
Manage accounts payable/receivable, administering an expansive QuickBooks database.
Educate coworkers and customers about Chanel's makeup, skincare, and fragrance lines.

Apply for cosmetic counter manager jobs

Now it's time to start searching for a cosmetic counter manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

Browse job boards for relevant postings
Consult your professional network
Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
Watch out for job scams

What is a cosmetic counter manager and how to become one

Cosmetic counter manager career paths