Ulta Beauty is a powerhouse in the beauty industry, providing a comprehensive shopping experience that spans from high-end makeup and skincare essentials to salon services. For beauty enthusiasts, it’s not just a place to shop but also a dynamic and exciting workplace where you can turn your passion for cosmetics, haircare, and skincare into a fulfilling career. If you’re curious about what it takes to join the Ulta team—such as the minimum age requirement and other key qualifications—this article will provide all the information you need to get started.
Why Age Matters for Employment at Ulta
Age isn’t just a number when it comes to employment. At Ulta, employees often manage tasks that require maturity and attention to detail, such as handling sensitive beauty products, maintaining store standards, and delivering stellar customer service. Labor laws limit the types of work and hours younger employees can take on, making 18 the ideal age for most positions at Ulta.
Can you work at Ulta without Makeup experience?
Prior makeup experience is not a requirement for many roles at Ulta, especially entry-level positions like cashiers or stock associates. While having a background in beauty can be an advantage, Ulta places more emphasis on qualities like customer service skills, a willingness to learn, and enthusiasm for the brand.
For positions such as beauty advisors or salon stylists, some knowledge of makeup or certifications in cosmetology may be required. But don’t worry—Ulta provides comprehensive training for all employees to help them grow into their roles.

Minimum Age Requirement to work at Ulta
To land a job at Ulta, you’ll generally need to be at least 18 years old. This requirement ensures that employees can handle the responsibilities of the job, such as assisting customers, managing transactions, and working with products. It also aligns with federal and state labor laws regarding employment and workplace safety. For younger teens interested in working at Ulta, it’s worth noting that exceptions are rare. However, local regulations or special programs might occasionally allow for flexibility, so it’s always a good idea to check directly with your nearest store.
What Do Ulta Cashiers Do?
Cashiers are the backbone of Ulta’s day-to-day operations. Their responsibilities go beyond scanning barcodes and handling payments:
- Assisting Customers: Helping customers find products and answering their queries.
- Handling Transactions: Processing sales efficiently and managing returns with a smile.
- Maintaining Cleanliness: Keeping the checkout area organized and inviting.
- Promoting Products: Sharing insights about ongoing promotions and loyalty programs.
It’s a role that requires great communication skills, a friendly attitude, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
What Do Ulta Employees Get a Discount On?
Working at Ulta comes with numerous perks, and one of the most valued is the employee discount. Ulta employees enjoy discounts on a wide array of products, including skincare, makeup, and haircare tools. While there may be a few exclusions—such as certain luxury brands—the Ulta discount program allows employees to indulge in their love for beauty without breaking the bank. This makes it easier for employees to stay updated on the latest trends and experiment with new products without financial constraints.
What’s the Ulta Employee Discount?

Ulta employees typically enjoy discounts ranging from 20% to 30%, with the higher percentage often applied to Ulta-brand products. For beauty enthusiasts, this means staying updated on the latest trends while enjoying significant savings. Whether it’s stocking up on favorite products, the discount is a major draw for employees.
Do Ulta Employees Get a Bonus?
Ulta employees have the opportunity to receive bonuses as part of the company’s incentive program. These bonuses can be tied to individual or store performance, such as meeting sales targets, delivering exceptional customer service, or contributing to successful promotional campaigns. Management positions often include extra performance-based rewards, making it an attractive opportunity for those looking to grow their career in the beauty industry.
Are Ulta Employees Happy?
Ulta has a strong reputation for fostering a positive work environment. Employees often highlight the fun atmosphere of being surrounded by beauty products and like-minded coworkers, as well as the growth opportunities provided by the company, which encourages career development from entry-level roles to management positions. Ulta’s supportive culture, characterized by teamwork and a collaborative spirit, plays a key role in its success. However, satisfaction can vary depending on store management and workload, so it’s worth reading employee reviews or speaking to current staff to get a better understanding.
Why Do You Want to Work at Ulta?
There are countless reasons why people choose Ulta as their workplace:
- A Love for Beauty: If you’re passionate about cosmetics, skincare, or haircare, working at Ulta feels like being a kid in a candy store.
- Career Growth: Ulta provides opportunities to advance, whether you want to move into management or specialize in beauty services.
- Employee Perks: From discounts to bonuses, Ulta takes care of its team.
- Dynamic Environment: The fast-paced nature of retail keeps every day exciting.
Articulating these reasons in your job application can help you stand out as a candidate.
Ulta Careers
Ulta offers a range of career paths, from part-time cashier positions to specialized salon roles and managerial opportunities. Entry-level positions, such as stock associates or sales associates, are great for beginners, while beauty advisors and stylists can thrive in more focused, customer-facing roles.
The company also hires seasonal workers during peak times, such as the holiday season, making it a great option for those looking to gain short-term retail experience.
Requirements Beyond Age
While the minimum age is 18, here are some additional qualities and requirements Ulta values:
- Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred.
- Customer Service Skills: The ability to connect with customers is crucial.
- Passion for Beauty: A genuine interest in cosmetics, skincare, and haircare can set you apart.
Job Opportunities for Teens

For teens who don’t meet the age requirement, there are limited opportunities at Ulta. However, those passionate about beauty can consider building experience through internships, volunteer work, or smaller roles at local beauty retailers until they meet the age requirement.
How to Apply for a Job at Ulta
Applying for a job at Ulta is straightforward:
- Visit the Ulta Website: Check the “Careers” section for job openings.
- Submit Your Application: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills like customer service or a love for beauty.
- Prepare for an Interview: Be ready to discuss your passion for Ulta and how you can contribute to the team.
Some stores also accept in-person applications, so don’t hesitate to visit your local Ulta for more information.
Conclusion
Working at Ulta Beauty offers more than just a paycheck—it’s an opportunity to pursue a passion for beauty in an inclusive, dynamic environment. Whether you’re looking to start your career or advance in the industry, Ulta provides the tools and support you need to succeed. From discounts on products to career growth opportunities, Ulta is committed to nurturing its employees and ensuring they feel valued and motivated. If you’re considering joining the team, understanding the age requirement, available perks, and job responsibilities will help you navigate the path to a rewarding career in beauty retail.

Daniel Calugar is an experienced investor with a background in business, law, and computer science. As a tech enthusiast, he became interested in computer science and pursued it before obtaining business and law degrees. Dan developed a passion for finance while working as a pension lawyer. He leveraged his technical skills to build computer programs that would analyze vast amounts of data and explore trading strategies to identify more worthwhile investments.
Leave a Reply