Job Description
Makeup Manager – Seasona
đź“Ť San Jose CA | Seasonal | Sept - Nov
Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group is the nation's leading creator of immersive, story-driven entertainment—and proudly the world's largest operator of Halloween attractions. With eighteen markets spanning Florida to California and millions of guests thrilled each year, we don't just produce events. We redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Denver and powered by a team of fearless creators, we've built a culture where curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive to go beyond expectations are the standard—not the exception. When you join Thirteenth Floor, you're not just taking a job. You're stepping into the magic behind the screams.
Returning applicants: If you have worked for Thirteenth Floor Entertainment Group in a prior season, please contact your location manager directly regarding rehire status. Do not submit a new application through the online system.
What You'll Do
As our Seasonal Makeup Manager, you're the creative and operational leader of the department that transforms performers into nightmares. You'll balance hands-on artistry with team leadership, keeping every character show-ready, every artist supported, and every night flawlessly executed.
Department Leadership
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Supervise, train, and mentor a team of makeup artists, providing guidance on technique, character execution, and professional standards
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Assign artists to specific actors and characters based on skill set and nightly production needs
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Conduct pre-shift meetings to communicate goals, character updates, and address challenges before doors open
Makeup Design & Quality Control
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Oversee the design and execution of all character makeup, ensuring consistency and quality across the entire attraction
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Collaborate with creative leadership to approve and refine makeup concepts throughout the season
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Step in to personally apply makeup for complex characters or during high-volume peak periods
Scheduling & Time Management
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Build and manage nightly makeup schedules to ensure all performers are show-ready on time
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Coordinate with costume and stage management to align preparation timelines across departments
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Monitor application progress each night, reallocating artists and adjusting workflows to meet deadlines
Inventory & Station Management
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Maintain inventory of all makeup products, prosthetics, and tools; order supplies proactively to avoid shortages
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Ensure all stations are clean, organized, and fully compliant with health and sanitation standards
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Implement and enforce protocols for proper sanitation, product storage, and material handling
Collaboration & Communication
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Serve as the primary liaison between the makeup team and costume, hair, special effects, and production departments
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Foster a collaborative, creative environment where artists feel supported and inspired
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Provide consistent feedback and development opportunities to grow your team's skills throughout the season
Adaptability & Problem Solving
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Address last-minute character changes, actor substitutions, and product challenges in real time
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Troubleshoot prosthetic, product, or application issues during live performances without disrupting show flow
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Remain flexible to work in varying conditions including low light, outdoor environments, and tight prep windows
Training & Professionalism
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Lead pre-season training sessions covering character designs, techniques, and safety standards
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Stay current on SFX industry trends and products, sharing knowledge to continuously elevate the team's output
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Model a calm, positive, and professional demeanor—especially in high-pressure moments—and hold the team to the same standard