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Lead Esthetician
Company : Highgate
Location : San Francisco, CA, 94108
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 31 December 2025
Compensation Type
HourlyHighgate Hotels
Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value.
With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. www.highgate.com
Location
Located in the exclusive Nob Hill neighborhood and in the process of going through a complete reimagination, The Huntington provides guests with modern amenities and conveniences within a historic space. Guests can enjoy fine dining, a three level spa, beautiful rooms and suites as well as meeting and event spaces without ever leaving the property. The Huntington provides guests with the best location and amenities San Francisco has to offer.
Overview
The Lead Esthetician plays a pivotal role in delivering an exceptional, elevated spa experience that aligns with the standards of a luxury wellness environment. This position combines advanced technical expertise with leadership responsibilities, ensuring that all esthetic services are performed to the highest level of quality, consistency, and guest care. The Lead Esthetician oversees the day-to-day operations of the esthetics department, supports and mentors the esthetician team, and upholds the spa’s service protocols, hygiene standards, and brand philosophy. This role works closely with the Spa Director, Assistant Spa Director and Spa Manager to maintain seamless operations, drive retail performance, and enhance the overall guest journey.
Responsibilities
- Perform a full range of advanced facial treatments, including cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, hydration therapies, anti-aging treatments, LED, microcurrent, and specialty enhancements according to spa protocols.
- Conduct detailed skin analyses to customize treatments based on guest concerns, skin type, lifestyle, and goals.
- Deliver all services with refined technique, gentle touch, and impeccable professionalism aligned with luxury standards.
- Provide expert guidance on skincare routines, product usage, and aftercare to support long-term skin health.
- Maintain full knowledge of all spa services, facial protocols, machines/technology, and premium skincare lines used within the spa.
- Ensure treatment rooms are pristine, well-stocked, and prepared for each guest, reflecting the spa’s high standards of cleanliness and ambiance.
- Uphold strict sanitation, health, and safety procedures always.
- Document guest preferences, service notes, and contraindications accurately in spa software systems.
- Educate guests on luxury skincare products and recommend personalized homecare regimens to enhance treatment results.
- Meet or exceed individual and team retail goals through authentic, knowledgeable recommendations.
- Participate in product knowledge sessions, brand trainings, and ongoing education.
- Collaborate with spa coordinators, massage therapists, and management to ensure a seamless and consistent guest journey.
- Support colleagues and maintain a positive, professional, and guest-focused team culture.
- Assist with spa events, promotions, VIP experiences, and seasonal treatment offerings as needed.
Qualifications
- Valid state Esthetician license and adherence to all regulatory standards.
- 1–2 years of experience in a luxury spa, high-end beauty environment, or five-star resort preferred.
- Proficiency with advanced skincare modalities such as microdermabrasion, LED light therapy, microcurrent, peels, and lymphatic techniques.
- Strong knowledge of premium skincare ingredients, formulations, and treatment benefits.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and guest-service skills.
- Flexible availability including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Polished appearance and elevated professional demeanor.
- Warm, intuitive, and guest-focused energy.
- Deep passion for skincare, wellness, and ongoing learning.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to create a serene, nurturing environment.
- High level of discretion, emotional intelligence, and respect for guest privacy.
$30/hr + commission
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Frequently asked questions
Mastering treatments like LED light therapy, microcurrent facials, chemical peels, and lymphatic drainage is crucial for a lead esthetician in San Francisco's upscale spas. These advanced modalities cater to diverse skin types and meet the elevated expectations of luxury wellness clientele in this competitive market.
Unlike a standard esthetician, a lead esthetician not only delivers expert skincare services but also mentors the team, oversees daily spa operations, and ensures consistency in guest care. They balance hands-on treatments with leadership duties, elevating both service quality and staff performance.
Estheticians can advance to lead roles by gaining expertise in advanced treatments, building strong client relationships, and demonstrating leadership skills. Progression often includes managing spa teams, contributing to retail performance, and eventually moving into spa management or brand ambassador positions.
Highgate's innovative hospitality management emphasizes seamless guest experiences and operational excellence, which means lead estheticians collaborate closely with management to uphold brand standards, integrate technology, and drive retail sales, all while maintaining a serene and professional spa environment.
At Highgate, lead estheticians are expected to blend technical expertise with strong leadership and retail acumen. The company values proactive mentorship, meticulous adherence to hygiene, and active participation in brand trainings, reflecting its commitment to innovation and elevated guest experiences.
Lead estheticians in San Francisco often earn around $30 per hour plus commission, aligning with the city's high living costs and competitive spa industry. This pay structure rewards both technical skill and sales performance, making it attractive for experienced professionals in luxury settings.
Nob Hill's affluent demographics and concentration of luxury hotels create strong demand for licensed estheticians skilled in advanced treatments. However, the high concentration of upscale spas means competition is fierce, making specialized skills and leadership experience valuable differentiators.
Commuting to Nob Hill can vary depending on starting location and transit options. Many estheticians rely on public transportation or rideshares due to limited parking. Proximity to downtown and efficient Muni lines generally make Nob Hill accessible, but traffic during peak hours can affect commute times.
A lead esthetician combines delivering complex skincare treatments with supervising team members, maintaining spa protocols, and driving retail sales. Unlike entry-level roles focused mostly on service delivery, leads manage documentation, mentor peers, and coordinate with management to enhance the guest experience.
Holding a valid California state esthetician license is mandatory, with additional certifications in advanced modalities like microdermabrasion and LED therapy highly beneficial. Continuous education and compliance with state health and safety regulations are critical to leading a spa team effectively.