Pros
As an ethetician trying to start a career in the salon industry, Ulta is a good place to start off. Training is provided at the Dermalogica Institute. Ulta is a good place to build a clientele with all of its foot-traffic compared to other spas and salons. You are paid hourly or commission. Which ever is highest at the end of the week (plus tips). Even if you don't have a lot of clients during your week, you are guaranteed to get some sort of compensation, although commission is ideal.
Cons
There is too much miscommunication amongst upper management. No benefits, even if working 40+ hrs/week (unless you are considered a "senior esthetician" which is an extremely hard title to achieve by Ulta's standards. As a salon employee, you are required to also work on the floor and help customers in need of products not related to your field (for example an esthetician is required to help customers find hair products). No salon receptionist. Store is always out of stock in products (both retail and salon products) which makes it hard of employees. All salon employees are required to sign a contract with Ulta stating that you will not personally inform your clients if you are leaving to work at another salon. Basically, your clients aren't "yours," they're Ulta's clients!