How Should I Be Getting Compensated as a Spa Employee?

You may be a veteran of the spa world looking for a new job or for that bump up into a management position.  On the other hand, you may be brand new to the spa industry.  What ever group you may fall into, the bottom line is, how should you be getting compensated?

As far as Spa Technicians (Massage Therapists, Skin Care or Body Treatment Therapists) go, there are three options.

1. Hourly Pay Rate

2. Commission Based

3. Combo of Hourly and Commission

They each have their pro's and con's (which I will delve deeper into in my next blog).  Depending on your personal motivation and monthly monetary needs you have to decide which structure fits your lifestyle best.  Since the spa industry is becoming so competitive, you may also want to consider a spa with benefits like insurance, ongoing education, bonuses, sales commission, tips, raises, provided uniforms, vacation and retirement plans.

Now lets look at the average pay rates* and commission percentages based on each position...

Aestheticians - Hourly rate of $10 to $12, plus 20-30% of each service provided and 10-25% of retail sold.  The gross hourly rate calculates to $22 - $40 per hour or $25K - $65K per year for a full time employee.

Massage Therapists - Same as above or NO HOURLY RATE but 30-40% of each service provided and 10-25% of retail sold.  Same yearly income as above for a full time employee.

Front Desk, Reservationist & Housekeeping Positions - Hourly rate or $8 to $12.  This equates to $15K - $23K per year for a full time employee.

Remember, employers usually base their pay scales on experience and longevity.

As far as Manager and Director positions go, salaries* are based on the type of facility you may be working in.  These positions typically include insurance, bonus plans and vacation.  They usually do not include over time (you know you will be working more than 40 hours a week!), commission or tips.

Day Spa - $40K to $50K per year

Hotel/Resort Spa - $40k to $50K per year

Destination Spa - $60K to $90k per year

Multi Facility Position - $7K to $100K per year

I hope this was helpful in giving you a better idea of the "going rates" these days.  This will help you when negotiating your rate for your new position.  Don't forget to check out SpaandSalonJobs.com for the newest jobs in your city today!

*All rates and salaries listed were found at virtualspa.net