Junior Groomer

Petco•Harrisonburg, VA

About The Position

The Junior Pet Stylist begins a ten-week training period to learn foundational grooming tasks under the close supervision and guidance of experienced groomers. Training covers bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, along with dog behavior, pet and personal safety, customer service, check-in and check-out procedures, and grooming policies. The role assists with grooming while prioritizing each pet’s comfort, safety, and well-being and providing effective service to pet parents. During weeks 1–3, the employee learns and receives on-the-job training, including bathing and drying techniques. During weeks 3–10, the employee performs bathing and walk-in services while working toward weekly productivity goals. The position also includes salon cleaning and sanitation, appointment scheduling, paperwork, and maintaining accurate grooming records. Most duties take place indoors in a grooming salon, with direct contact with pets, pet parents, and salon colleagues.

Requirements

0–1 year of animal-related experience, including shelter volunteering or pet sitting.
Genuine passion for animals and desire to pursue a career in pet grooming.
Basic understanding of dog breeds, behavior, and common grooming practices.
Ability to handle pets of all sizes and temperaments with care and empathy.
Effective verbal and written communication skills for interactions with pet parents and grooming team members.
Availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as required by the grooming schedule.
Ability to bend, kneel, lift up to 30 pounds as necessary, and stand for long periods.
May need to work at heights using a two-step ladder or other support tools.

Nice To Haves

Prior grooming salon assistance is preferred.
High school diploma or GED is preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Under close supervision, perform limited grooming services, including bathing, drying, nail trimming, brushing, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, according to pet parents’ instructions and company policies.
Ensure the well-being and safety of every animal in the salon.
Interact professionally with pet parents, provide customer service, address grooming-related questions, and resolve concerns in a timely manner.
Maintain a clean and safe grooming area; disinfect and sanitize tools and equipment; perform daily and weekly cleaning and other assigned maintenance duties.
Schedule grooming appointments, manage paperwork, and maintain accurate grooming records.
Learn and follow Petco grooming policies, standards, and guidelines.
Learn dog behavior, pet and personal safety, check-in and check-out procedures, customer service, and bathing and drying techniques.
Perform bathing and walk-in services and work toward weekly productivity goals.