Groomer

Petco Petco · Retail · Newport News, VA

Petco is hiring a Groomer (Pet Stylist) to provide professional grooming services to pets. Responsibilities include bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, while prioritizing pet safety and customer satisfaction. The role requires expertise in grooming techniques, knowledge of pet breeds and health issues, and strong communication skills. Experience as a professional groomer or completion of a grooming training program is preferred.

What you'd actually do

  1. perform professional grooming services including bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts and styling, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, according to pet parent's instructions and adhering to breed standards and company policies and procedures
  2. Operate and maintain various grooming instruments, including clippers, blades, shears, brushes, and dryers
  3. Always prioritize the well-being and safety of every animal in the salon, monitor pets for any signs of discomfort, illness, or injury, and promptly report any concerns to pet owners and store management
  4. Interact professionally and effectively with pet parents, provide optimal customer service, address grooming related inquiries, offer grooming recommendations, and provide timely resolution to questions or concerns
  5. Maintain a clean and safe grooming area and salon, disinfect, and sanitize grooming tools and equipment, perform daily and weekly cleaning duties in the salon and in adherence to Petco hygiene and sanitation policies, other cleaning and maintenance tasks as assigned, including but not limited to cleaning air filters, vents, and drains

Skills

Required

  • Expert knowledge of various dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues and behaviors
  • High level of proficiency in breed-specific cuts, styling techniques, and grooming standards
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills for interactions with pet parents and grooming team members
  • Capable of handling pets of all sizes and temperaments with care and empathy
  • Available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays, as required by the Pet Care Center's grooming schedule

Nice to have

  • Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience as a professional groomer and/or completion of a technical grooming training program
  • High-school diploma or GED preferred, though not required
  • Latitude for independent judgement and problem solving, using grooming skills and knowledge to solve problems in routine to moderately complex situations, with some guidance from Grooming Salon Leader, Solutions Manager, or Store General Manager when necessary
  • Results-driven with commitment to productivity, performance, and ownership of role in the grooming salon
  • Strong attention to detail, ensuring grooming services are executed accurately and to the highest standards
  • Genuine passion for animals with a desire to continue a career in pet grooming