Junior Groomer

Petco; Lakewood (WA); On-site; USD 13,776 - 28,929; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Benefits package

401(k) and PTO

Job summary

Petco is hiring a Junior Pet Stylist to learn grooming services under supervision, including bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning. You will learn pet safety, customer service, and grooming policies while supporting a positive salon environment.

You will work with pets of various sizes, adhere to safety standards, and develop skills through a structured training program.

Qualifications

• 0–1 year animal-related experience; prior grooming salon assistance preferred.
• High-school diploma or GED preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform limited grooming services (bath, nail trim, brushing, etc.) per instructions and policies.
• Ensure animal safety and well-being in the salon at all times.
• Provide professional customer service and address inquiries.
• Maintain a clean and safe grooming area; disinfect tools and clean regularly.
• Schedule appointments and maintain grooming records.
• Learn and follow Petco grooming policies and guidelines.

Skills

Animal handling

Customer service

Communication

Passion for animals

Teamwork

Education

High-school diploma or GED

Job description

Junior Pet Stylist – Grooming

We’re hiring a Junior Pet Stylist to learn grooming services, including bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning under the supervision of experienced groomers. The position involves learning pet safety, customer service, and grooming policies.

Responsibilities

• Perform limited grooming services (bathing, drying, nail trimming, brushing, ear cleaning, gland cleaning) according to pet parents’ instructions and company policies.
• Ensure the well‑being and safety of every animal in the salon at all times.
• Interact professionally with pet parents, providing customer service, addressing inquiries, and resolving issues.
• Maintain a clean and safe grooming area: disinfect and sanitize tools, perform daily and weekly cleaning duties, etc.
• Schedule grooming appointments, manage paperwork, and maintain accurate grooming records.
• Learn and adhere to Petco's grooming policies, standards, and guidelines.

Training Program Outline

• Weeks 1–3: Learning and on‑the‑job training – dog behavior, safety, check‑in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, bathing and drying techniques.
• Weeks 4–10: Performing and achieving productivity – bathings and walk‑in services while meeting weekly productivity goals.

Education & Experience

• 0–1 year of animal‑related experience (shelter volunteering, pet sitting); prior grooming salon assistance preferred.
• High‑school diploma or GED preferred.
• Passion for animals and desire to pursue a career in pet grooming.
• Basic understanding of dog breeds, behavior, and grooming practices.
• Capable of handling pets of all sizes and temperaments with care and empathy.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as required.

Work Environment

The majority of job duties are conducted indoors in the grooming salon. The position requires bending, kneeling, lifting (up to 30 lbs), standing for long periods, exposure to heights using ladders, and use of vacuums. The environment can be noisy and wet.

Salary Range

Hourly: $10.00 – $21.50.

Benefits

• Competitive base pay.
• Medical, dental, vision, and other benefits.
• 401(k) and other retirement plans.
• Paid Time Off (PTO).
• Petco discounts.
• All necessary grooming supplies and equipment provided.
• State‑of‑the‑art grooming equipment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.