Trainee Hair and Makeup Assistant, ITV Academy x Emmerdale - 12 month FTC

The Role

The team

Launch your TV career with ITV Academy and Emmerdale! We're looking for creative, organised individuals with practical skills in hair or make-up to join our fast-paced Makeup Department as a Trainee. You don't need TV experience, just a passion for character styling and a desire to learn. You'll work alongside industry experts in the studio and on location, gaining hands-on experience in continuity, character prep, and professional workflows. If you're ready to bring stories to life on screen, this is your chance to turn your existing skills into a career in television production.

The role

As a Trainee, you won’t just be shadowing, you’ll be a vital part of the Emmerdale Makeup Team. From perfecting character looks and learning to manage continuity to collaborating with costume and production teams, you’ll gain real-world experience in every aspect of a busy, high-energy makeup department. You’ll master professional standards, support on-set filming, and learn the industry workflows that bring iconic characters to life.

Skills you’ll need (minimum criteria)

• Qualifications in at least one of the following: makeup application / hairdressing/ barbering
• Practical skills in at least one of the following demonstrated through an impressive portfolio, freelance work, voluntary work or backstage in theatre: Hairdressing, Barbering, Makeup Artistry, Wig Styling, Textured Hair, Specialist Hair or Makeup Techniques
• Evidence of applying hair and/or make-up skills for a range of people, styles or creative projects, demonstrating technical ability and attention to detail via your portfolio.
• Ability to interpret creative direction and accurately recreate hair or makeup looks from written instructions, photographs or demonstrations.
• Experience of working collaboratively with others through education, work, voluntary activities, community projects, freelance work or creative collaborations.
• Basic digital skills, including confidence using email and digital devices (eg iPad) to record continuity information and follow production processes using multiple apps.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage tasks accurately.
• Ability to work from the Emmerdale production base in Leeds and work flexibly to support production schedules, with reasonable adjustments available where required.
• Evidence of following written instructions or creative briefs accurately to produce hair and/or make-up looks through work, education, voluntary activities or personal projects with the ability to read scripts, decipher makeup relevant notes and implement them practically through direction from the supervisor.

Other things we’re looking for (key criteria)

• Passion and enthusiasm for make-up, hair and television production.
• Interest in how make-up and hair contribute to character development and storytelling.
• Strong attention to detail and pride in producing accurate work.
• Creativity and an eye for visual presentation.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to work collaboratively and build positive working relationships.
• Adaptability and resilience when priorities change.
• Confidence in taking initiative and finding practical solutions.
• Understanding of the importance of professionalism, confidentiality and teamwork.
• Commitment to inclusive hair and make-up practices for artistes with different skin tones, hair textures and cultural requirements.
• Full Driving License is desirable