Finding nail salon work in the USA
Nail salons are the most common first job in the Vietnamese-American community — nearly every city with a community has shops hiring. Listings turn over weekly, so knowing how to read an ad saves everyone time.
Reading a hiring ad
Ads name the skills needed: acrylic/dip ("bột"), manicure-pedicure ("tay chân nước"), or "everything". «Bao lương» means a guaranteed weekly/monthly minimum even when the shop is slow, with commission splits above it. Guarantees and splits vary by shop and season — always verify the numbers on the phone.
Questions to ask before accepting
- How much is guaranteed, for how long, and what's the split after?
- How are tips handled?
- W-2 or 1099? It changes your taxes significantly.
- How many chairs and techs? Walk-ins or appointments?
- Is housing offered for out-of-town techs?
State licenses
Every state licenses nail techs separately with different hour requirements. Moving states usually means reciprocity paperwork or make-up hours — check the destination state's board before you commit.
Browse the latest nail job posts →
Frequently asked questions
What does "bao lương" mean?
A guaranteed weekly or monthly minimum income even when the shop is slow, with commission splits above it. Amounts vary by shop — verify on the phone.
Do I need a license?
Every US state licenses nail techs separately with different required hours. Moving states usually needs reciprocity paperwork or make-up hours.
What's the difference between W-2 and 1099?
W-2 means employee with taxes withheld; 1099 means independent contractor handling your own taxes including self-employment tax. Ask before accepting.