Barber Assistant - WPEP Scheme - BARZ BARBERSHOP LIMITED

BARZ BARBERSHOP LIMITED; Tullamore; On-site; EUR 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A local barbering shop in Tullamore is offering a training position for a barbering assistant. This role provides hands-on experience in barbering, including customer service and basic haircutting techniques, with no prior experience required. Participants will receive accredited training and mentoring from senior barbers, ensuring skill development in a professional setting.

Qualifications

• No prior experience in barbering necessary.
• Participants will undergo accredited training during the placement.
• Ability to observe and practice basic hair cutting techniques.

Responsibilities

• Familiarise with barbering tools and their maintenance.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized salon environment.
• Gain experience in cash handling and appointment management.
• Develop haircutting and styling skills under supervision.
• Support senior barbers and interact with clients professionally.

Job description

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
  • Introduction to workplace health & safety regulations (HSA guidelines)
  • Proper use and sanitation of tools and equipment
  • Fire safety procedures and first‑aid basics
• Barbering Techniques (Beginner to Intermediate Level)
  • Clipper work and scissor cutting
  • Fading and tapering techniques
  • Beard trimming and shaping
  • Shampooing and conditioning techniques
• Customer Service & Client Care
  • Greeting and consulting with clients professionally
  • Managing client expectations and handling complaints
  • Booking and scheduling appointments using salon software
• Salon Hygiene & Cleanliness
  • Daily cleaning routines and hygiene standards
  • Disinfection and sterilisation of tools
  • Waste management and cross‑contamination prevention
• Retail & Product Knowledge
  • Introduction to hair and beard care products
  • How to recommend and upsell retail products to clients
• Shadowing Senior Barbers
  • Observation and hands‑on support during client sessions
  • 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