Groomer

3M HEALTHCARE; North East (MD); On-site; USD 20,664 - 31,684; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Medical, dental, vision coverage

401(k) with company match

Paid Time Off

Employee discounts

State-of-the-art grooming equipment

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Petco in the United States is seeking a Pet Stylist to provide professional grooming services for dogs and cats, following client instructions and Petco policies. You will work with advanced grooming equipment and participate in ongoing training and leadership tracks.

The role emphasizes pet safety, quality workmanship, and customer service, with opportunities for growth as Grooming Salon Leader or Mentor. Weekend, evening, and holiday availability is required.

Qualifications

• Completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program or prior professional grooming experience or grooming training.
• High school diploma or GED preferred, though not required.
• Strong problem-solving and independent judgment in grooming scenarios.
• Attention to detail to meet high grooming standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform professional grooming services, including bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts and styling, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, following client instructions and company policies.
• Operate and maintain grooming instruments – clippers, blades, shears, brushes, and dryers – with a focus on asset care and safety.
• Prioritize pet safety and comfort, monitoring animals for discomfort or injury and reporting concerns promptly.
• Evaluate each pet’s needs based on coat type, skin conditions, and temperament, and recommend appropriate grooming and at-home care products.
• Deliver excellent customer service, handling inquiries, providing recommendations, and resolving issues quickly and professionally.
• Maintain a clean, safe grooming area, disinfecting tools and equipment regularly and performing daily/weekly sanitation tasks, including filters, vents, and drains.
• Adhere to Grooming policies and standards to ensure consistent quality and safety.
• Train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees when required, in the absence of the Grooming Salon Leader.

Skills

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Passion for animals

Independent judgment

Education

Pet Stylist Apprentice program or grooming training program

Tools

Grooming equipment knowledge

Job description

About Petco

Petco is a trusted destination for pet parents, offering everything they need to support their pets’ well‑being. With over 1,500 stores, 250 Vetco Total Care hospitals, and a network of distribution centers, Petco has dedicated more than 60 years to improving the lives of pets and people.

About the Role

As a Pet Stylist, you provide professional grooming services to our valued customers’ pets, ensuring each animal looks and feels its best. You work within a dynamic, rewarding environment with advanced equipment and opportunities for career growth, such as Grooming Salon Leader, Grooming Mentor, or Grooming Instructor.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform professional grooming services, including bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts and styling, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, following pet parents’ instructions and company policies.
• Operate and maintain grooming instruments – clippers, blades, shears, brushes, and dryers – with a focus on asset care and safety.
• Prioritize pet safety and comfort, monitoring animals for discomfort or injury and reporting concerns promptly.
• Evaluate each pet’s needs based on coat type, skin conditions, and temperament, and recommend appropriate grooming and at‑home care products.
• Deliver excellent customer service, handling inquiries, providing recommendations, and resolving issues quickly and professionally.
• Maintain a clean, safe grooming area, disinfecting tools and equipment regularly and performing daily/weekly sanitation tasks, including filters, vents, and drains.
• Adhere to Petco’s grooming policies and standards to ensure consistent quality and safety.
• Train, support, and supervise entry‑level trainees when required, in the absence of the Grooming Salon Leader.

Qualifications

• Completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program or prior professional grooming experience, or a completion of a technical grooming training program.
• High school diploma or GED preferred, though not required.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and independent judgment in routine to moderately complex grooming scenarios.
• Results‑driven with a commitment to productivity, performance, and ownership of salon duties.
• Attention to detail, ensuring services meet high standards of grooming quality.
• Passion for animals and dedication to continuing a career in pet grooming.
• Expert knowledge of dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues, and behavior.
• Proficiency in breed‑specific cuts, styling techniques, and grooming standards.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interactions with pet parents and team members.
• Capability to handle pets of all sizes and temperaments with care and empathy.
• Availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as required by the grooming schedule.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay ($15.00 – $23.00 hourly or salary, depending on location and experience).
• Medical, dental, vision, and additional health benefits.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off and pet‑loss assistance.
• Petco employee discounts on products and services.
• On‑site equipment and supplies, including brushes, nail trimmers, clippers, blades, shampoo, sprays, and tools.
• State‑of‑the‑art grooming equipment – bathing system, kennels, tables, dryers.
• Career development and growth opportunities with leadership tracks.

Work Environment

The role is primarily indoors within the grooming salon, requiring bending, kneeling, lifting up to 30 pounds, and standing for extended periods. Employees may also work near heights using ladders or support tools while performing cleaning and maintenance. The workplace can be noisy and wet, with direct contact with pet parents and their dogs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.

Petco Total Rewards, including health and financial benefits, 401(k), incentives, and PTO: Petco Total Rewards