Description
Design, fabricate, and apply prosthetics and special effects makeup to transform performers for film, TV, theater, and live events, aligning looks with story, period, setting, and action.
- • Collaborate with directors, designers, and performers to define special effects goals.
- • Break down scripts to map injuries, transformations, and continuity per scene.
- • Plan and manage SFX makeup budgets, kits, and schedules.
- • Design prosthetics, appliances, and character effects to achieve story-driven looks.
- • Sculpt, mold, and cast appliances in silicone, foam latex, or gelatin.
- • Lifecast performers to create accurate molds for custom prosthetics.
- • Paint and finish appliances to match skin tones and textures.
- • Apply and blend prosthetics; create wounds, scars, aging, and illness effects.
- • Mix pigments, bloods, and materials to achieve realistic colors and textures.
- • Install and operate tubing, bladders, or pumps for practical blood or swelling gags.
- • Coordinate with hair, wardrobe, props, stunts, and VFX to integrate effects.
- • Evaluate lighting, climate, and action to select durable products and methods.
- • Provide on-set maintenance, repairs, and touch-ups to preserve continuity.
- • Document looks with makeup charts, product lists, and reference photos.
- • Source, inventory, and maintain SFX materials, tools, and consumables.
- • Observe hygiene and safety protocols; conduct patch tests for adhesives and products.
- • Remove prosthetics safely; cleanse skin and provide aftercare guidance.
- • Create and maintain facial hairpieces, transfers, and creature hair work.
- • Test looks with camera and lighting; present options to production for approval.
- • Train and supervise assistants in SFX techniques and safe material handling.
- • Adapt designs to budget and time constraints without compromising narrative goals.
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Healthcare & Human Services
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
