Lead Groomer

Pet Pros; Wheaton (IL); On-site; USD 22,730 - 32,373; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Strong earning potential

Professional development opportunity with mentorship

Job summary

Pet Pros in Wheaton, Illinois, is looking for an experienced Lead Dog Groomer to deliver high-quality grooming services while providing leadership and support to the grooming team. Responsibilities include full-service grooming, customer service, and team coaching.

The ideal candidate will have over 2 years of grooming and bathing experience, strong leadership abilities, and excellent communication skills. This role offers a competitive pay structure of up to $20.00 per hour plus commission.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of professional dog grooming experience required.
• Minimum of 2 years of professional bathing experience required.
• Familiarity with dog breeds and grooming standards.

Responsibilities

• Perform full-service grooming and assessments of each dog’s condition.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and quality checks for the team.
• Maintain strong customer service standards and adapt to priorities.
• Ensure pet safety and cleanliness in the grooming environment.

Skills

Leadership skills

Customer service skills

Grooming techniques proficiency

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Ability to manage multiple priorities

Education

Associate’s degree

Tools

Grooming tools and equipment

Job description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Dog Groomer to provide high-quality grooming services and to offer leadership, coaching, and technical direction to a team of groomers and bathers. This role combines hands‑on grooming expertise with team development, quality control, and customer service excellence.

The ideal candidate is a skilled groomer with strong leadership abilities, a passion for pet care, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service and results.

Key Responsibilities

Grooming Services & Client Experience

• Perform full-service grooming, including bathing, brushing, clipping, trimming, and breed-specific styling
• Conduct thorough assessments of each dog’s coat, skin, ears, nails, and overall condition
• Recommend appropriate services, add‑ons, and products based on pet needs
• Clearly communicate grooming plans, pricing, and service expectations to pet parents
• Maintain detailed records of grooming instructions and customer preferences
• Notify pet owners when services are completed and provide ongoing communication as needed
• Deliver exceptional customer service and ensure a positive salon experience

Leadership & Team Development

• Provide day‑to‑day leadership, coaching, and technical guidance to groomers and bathers
• Train and support skill development for bathers, and maintain grooming and bathing quality standards across the team
• Perform regular quality checks on groomers and bathers
• Participate in bi‑weekly performance meetings and support team performance improvement
• Address and resolve customer concerns, including making service corrections when needed

Operations & Performance

• Maintain strong customer service standards and meet or exceed established goals
• Adapt to changing priorities, including assisting with walk‑in grooming services.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with customers and team members

Pet Safety & Care

• Ensure accuracy of release forms, kennel cards, and service documentation
• Monitor pets for stress, health concerns, or behavioral changes and report as needed
• Ensure kenneled pets are comfortable, have access to water, and are walked regularly
• Communicate any health or safety concerns to management and pet owners

Salon Maintenance & Compliance

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized grooming environment.
• Complete daily and weekly cleaning and sanitation tasks
• Respond appropriately to any pet or employee incidents, ensuring proper care and reporting
• Support additional salon duties as assigned by management

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of professional dog grooming experience required
• Minimum of 2 years of professional bathing experience required
• Associate’s degree preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
• Proficiency in a variety of grooming techniques, including clipping, trimming, hand‑stripping, and breed‑standard styling
• Knowledge of grooming tools and equipment
• Familiarity with dog breeds and grooming standards
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Ability to complete a grooming skills assessment

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: Up to $20.00 per hour + up to 45% commission.
• Strong earning potential with a competitive commission structure
• Exclusive Professional Development Opportunity:

Participate in bi‑weekly, hands‑on mentorship and leadership development sessions with a multi‑award‑winning international competition groomer. With over 20 years of experience in advanced grooming techniques, salon leadership, and professional instruction, this mentorship offers a rare opportunity to elevate your craft, refine advanced skills, and grow as a leader in the grooming industry.

Work Environment

• Fast‑paced grooming salon environment
• Frequent interaction with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments
• Requires standing, bending, and lifting throughout the workday

This is more than just a grooming role; it’s an opportunity to advance your career, maximize your earning potential, and learn from one of the best in the industry.