SALON LEVEL SYSTEM

Apprentice / Assistant Stylist

An Apprentice/Assistant Stylist at Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio is either a recent beauty school graduate or a new addition to the Meraki team. They are fully licensed New York State Cosmetologists who are in the process of acclimating to our salon's policies, culture, and atmosphere, while either awaiting eligibility or currently enrolled in our prestigious Meraki Advanced Training Academy.

During this phase, they actively assist the Meraki Style Team in delivering daily guest services and work closely under the mentorship of our Salon Educators. This allows them to develop advanced technical skills, increase efficiency, and learn Meraki’s specialized procedures. Once enrolled in the Meraki Advanced Academy, they will begin to service models for a limited number of hours per week, gaining invaluable hands-on experience with real clients while further refining their expertise.

New Talent / Junior Stylist (J1)
A New Talent Stylist at Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio is a professional who has successfully completed our rigorous Meraki Advanced Training Academy under the guidance of our Certified Salon Educators. These stylists are highly skilled but are still building their career in the industry.

While their prices are lower than other stylist levels, this is not because they are new to cosmetology. Instead, it reflects their status as someone new to our salon who provides high-quality, beautiful services at a more budget-friendly rate. A New Talent Stylist offers an excellent balance of value and expertise for guests seeking exceptional services at competitive prices.

Junior Stylist (J2 / J3)
A Junior Stylist has advanced beyond the New Talent level and is continuing to refine their expertise in precision haircuts and advanced color techniques. After at least one year as a New Talent Stylist (J1) and achieving key career milestones, they are promoted to this level. With 2-4 years of experience in the industry, Junior Stylists are developing their artistic mastery and building a loyal clientele.

This tier provides a perfect option for guests looking for a stylist with growing expertise and creative vision while still enjoying moderate pricing.

Senior Stylist
A Senior Stylist at Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio is a seasoned professional who has honed their craft in precision haircuts and advanced color techniques. With 4-6 years of experience, these stylists have undergone extensive additional training and certifications in a wide range of services, reflecting their commitment to continuous professional growth.

Meraki Senior Stylists are experts in advanced color application and precision haircuts, and they are certified in various specialized services offered at our salon. This level represents the perfect choice for guests seeking a stylist who combines years of experience with advanced techniques, ensuring high-quality results and a personalized touch for every guest.

Master Stylist

A Master Stylist at Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio is a top-level professional who has achieved mastery in precision haircuts and advanced color techniques. These stylists are certified in all services offered by Meraki, making them highly versatile and capable of delivering exceptional results in any area of hair and beauty.

With a minimum of 6-8 years of experience, Master Stylists have completed over 250 hours of advanced training through both in-salon education and attendance at industry-approved classes. They work closely with our Artistic Director, continuously advancing their skills and knowledge. Many Master Stylists are also preparing to take on mentorship roles, guiding and educating New Talent Stylists through the Meraki Educators Program and contributing to our in-salon education initiatives.

When you choose a Master Stylist, you’re selecting a seasoned expert with years of experience, advanced certifications, and a commitment to excellence in every service they provide.

Artistic Director (AD1)

These are our most advanced stylists and artists. Certified as advanced technicians in precision cutting, advanced color application and techniques and styling. They have completed the Meraki Salon Educators Program, and help to train/mentor new team members. Artistic Directors have at least 5 - 7 years of experience.

Artistic Director (AD2)

These stylists hold management positions within the salon and are advanced with techniques. They are specialists in all of Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio Service offerings, and are senior educators that develop and train new educators. This level is also responsible for certifying our specialists and also organizing all continuing education and assisting with related duties. An Artistic Director level 2 stylist have at least 6-8 years of experience.

Artistic Director (AD3) - Salon Director

The highest level at Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio is reserved for our most experienced and in high demand service providers in our salon. They are well-known for their work, have reached rigorous goals and met advanced education and skill requirements. These stylists are our Salon Directors and artistically guide the entire team and take appointments by request only. Our Artistic Director (AD3) Stylists are also part owners within the salon.

These are the most sought-after hairstylists in the salon not only because of their very advanced education level but also because of their well-known reputation in the community. Service providers at this level must have minimally 10+ years of experience and have been with Meraki Hair & Makeup Studio for at least 8+ years.