Barbers

Provide barbering services, such as cutting, trimming, shampooing, and styling hair; trimming beards; or giving shaves.

SOC: 39-5011.00

Common Job Titles

  • Barber
  • Barber Shop Operator
  • Barber Stylist
  • Stylist

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • Hands-onPerform hair cutting, trimming, and styling techniques using clippers, scissors, and razors in barbershop settings, delivering precise services to diverse clientele.
  • MindsetEngage with clients to understand their service preferences and expectations through active listening and social perceptiveness during consultations.
  • KnowledgeApply customer service principles and grooming techniques when providing personalized barbering services and building client relationships.
  • Hands-onOperate electric clippers, blow dryers, and styling equipment following safety protocols while maintaining tool cleanliness and functionality.
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate creative styling solutions for different hair types and facial features, adapting techniques to individual client characteristics and current trends.
  • MindsetSupport client comfort and satisfaction throughout service delivery by maintaining professional communication and responding to client feedback.
  • KnowledgeAssess hair and scalp conditions to recommend appropriate treatments and products using knowledge of chemistry and grooming standards.
  • KnowledgeSchedule client appointments and manage time allocation to optimize service efficiency and minimize client wait times.
  • Hands-onExecute beard trimming and straight razor shaving techniques with precision and attention to safety, ensuring clean and professional results.
  • KnowledgeApply sanitation and sterilization procedures for barbering tools and workstations in compliance with public health and safety regulations.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Barbers (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

18,100

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $27,770. 25th percentile: U.S. $32,050. 50th percentile: U.S. $38,960. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,180. 90th percentile: U.S. $78,440. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$27,770
10% of workers earn the following or more$78,440
Workers on average earn$47,800

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
  • Administration and Management3.2/5
  • English Language3.1/5
  • Economics and Accounting3.0/5
  • Psychology3.0/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Facebook
  • Linux
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Appointment scheduling software
  • Customer information databases
  • Point of sale POS payment software
  • YouTube

Tools & Equipment

  • Adjustable barber chairs
  • Barber scissors
  • Curling irons
  • Desktop computers
  • Electric shavers
  • Facial hair trimmers
  • Hair styling combs
  • Handheld blow dryers
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment