Lead Makeup Artist – Scaregrounds PDX 2026
Lead the Team Behind Portland's Most Terrifying Transformations!
Scaregrounds PDX is seeking an experienced, organized, and creative Lead Makeup Artist to oversee all makeup operations for the 2026 Halloween season at Oaks Amusement Park.
This leadership position is responsible for managing a team of six makeup artists, developing character makeup designs, maintaining quality standards, and ensuring up to 100 performers are transformed into unforgettable monsters each night.
If you're passionate about horror makeup, enjoy mentoring artists, and thrive in a fast-paced live entertainment environment, we want to hear from you.
Position Overview
The Lead Makeup Artist oversees all aspects of the makeup department from preseason planning through the final night of operation. This includes scheduling artists, creating makeup standards, ordering supplies, training the makeup team, and ensuring every performer is show-ready before opening each evening.
ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Management
- Recruit, train, and supervise a team of six makeup artists
- Create nightly artist schedules and workstation assignments
- Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment
- Coach artists to maintain consistency and quality throughout the season
- Work closely with the Cast Director, Costume Department, and Attraction Managers
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Makeup Design
- Develop makeup concepts for all haunted attractions and characters
- Create makeup reference guides and application standards
- Balance quality with efficient application times
- Adapt designs based on performer needs, weather, and attraction requirements
Operations
- Ensure all performers are show-ready before opening each night
- Manage nightly makeup room operations and workflow
- Monitor sanitation and safety procedures
- Troubleshoot makeup issues throughout the evening
- Coordinate touch-ups and emergency repairs during operation
Inventory & Purchasing
- Create preseason supply lists and budgets
- Maintain inventory of makeup, prosthetics, adhesives, brushes, and sanitation supplies
- Order replacement materials as needed throughout the season
- Organize and maintain makeup workstations
End of Season
- Inventory and organize all makeup supplies
- Properly clean, store, and document department equipment
- Provide recommendations for improvements for future seasons
Qualifications
- Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
- Strong portfolio demonstrating horror, theatrical, SFX, or cosplay makeup
- Experience applying makeup efficiently in high-volume environments
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Comfortable leading and mentoring a creative team
- Knowledge of makeup sanitation and skin safety practices
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and meet strict opening deadlines
Preferred Experience
- Haunted attractions
- Film or television makeup
- Theatrical productions
- Theme parks or immersive entertainment
- Airbrushing
- Prosthetic application
- Foam latex or silicone prosthetics
- Wound simulation and special effects makeup
Schedule
This seasonal position includes preseason planning beginning in late summer, makeup team training before opening, and nightly operations throughout the Halloween season. Evening and weekend availability is required.
Compensation
Seasonal stipend: $4,000–$6,000, based on experience, qualifications, and successful completion of the season.
Why Join Scaregrounds PDX?
- Lead one of the Pacific Northwest's premier haunted attraction makeup departments
- Design and create hundreds of unique monster looks
- Build and mentor an incredible team of artists
- Collaborate with scenic, costume, lighting, and performance departments
- Leave your creative mark on one of Portland's largest Halloween events
If you're ready to lead a talented team and bring nightmares to life, we'd love to see your portfolio.
Apply today and help create the monsters that haunt Scaregrounds PDX!
Scaregrounds PDX-Oaks Amusement Park-Portland, Oregon
Pay: $40.00 - $50.00 per hour
Benefits:
Experience:
- Makeup application: 1 year (Required)
Location:
- Portland, OR 97202 (Preferred)
Shift availability:
Ability to Commute:
- Portland, OR 97202 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
