Job Description
We are pleased to offer a hands‑on and dynamic work placement opportunity for a barbering assistant as part of the Work Placement Experience Programme (WPEP). This placement is designed to give the participant practical experience in a professional barbering environment while supporting their development in essential industry skills.
Placement Duties and Learning Objectives
* Familiarisation with barbering tools – understanding their purpose, use and maintenance.
* General upkeep of the salon – assisting in maintaining a clean, organised and professional workspace, including regular sanitation of tools and surfaces.
* Cash handling and till work – gaining experience in handling transactions, providing customer change and operating the till system accurately and professionally.
* Booking and appointment management – supporting the arrangement of client bookings over the phone and in person and learning to use salon booking systems effectively.
* Haircutting skills – observing and practicing basic cutting techniques under supervision, with a focus on accuracy, safety and client satisfaction.
* Styling and shaving techniques – developing skills in styling hair and providing traditional shaving and grooming services as appropriate to training level.
* Teamwork – working alongside senior barbers and other staff members to ensure a smooth and efficient salon operation.
* Customer service – building confidence in greeting clients, understanding client needs and contributing to a welcoming and professional customer experience.
* Assisting senior barbers – supporting experienced barbers with tasks such as preparation for appointments, equipment set‑up and post‑service clean‑up.
Role Description
This is a training and work experience opportunity; no prior experience in this role is necessary. Accredited and/or sector recognised training will be provided to support your placement. Participants are eligible to participate in the WPEP QQI Work Experience Module, which was developed by the Education & Training Boards in collaboration with the Department of Social Protection. The optional module will fulfil your accredited training requirements for the WPEP.
Formal Training
* Health and Safety Training
o Introduction to workplace health & safety regulations (HSA guidelines)
o Proper use and sanitation of tools and equipment
o Fire safety procedures and first‑aid basics
* Barbering Techniques (Beginner to Intermediate Level)
o Clipper work and scissor cutting
o Fading and tapering techniques
o Beard trimming and shaping
o Shampooing and conditioning techniques
* Customer Service & Client Care
o Greeting and consulting with clients professionally
o Managing client expectations and handling complaints
o Booking and scheduling appointments using salon software
* Salon Hygiene & Cleanliness
o Daily cleaning routines and hygiene standards
o Disinfection and sterilisation of tools
o Waste management and cross‑contamination prevention
* Retail & Product Knowledge
o Introduction to hair and beard care products
o How to recommend and upsell retail products to clients
* Shadowing Senior Barbers
o Observation and hands‑on support during client sessions
o Regular review sessions and feedback from senior staff
Informal Training
* Daily mentoring by senior barber(s) – ongoing tips, advice and demonstrations during work hours, real‑time corrections and technique improvement.
* Team integration and salon etiquette – encouragement of teamwork and communication, learning salon flow and interpersonal dynamics.
* Soft skills development – confidence building through customer interaction, time management and multitasking in a fast‑paced environment.
* Exposure to a variety of hair types and styles – learning adaptiveness by working with a diverse clientele, encouraging questions and seeking guidance.
* Problem‑solving scenarios – informal discussions around handling challenging clients or situations, encouraging initiative and self‑learning.
Candidate Requirements
* Minimum experience required (years): 0
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