Groomer

About Petco

Petco has proudly served as the destination where pets and pet lovers find everything needed to support pets living their best lives for more than six decades. We operate over 1,500 stores across the US, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Our community includes 29,000+ associates committed to nurturing the bond between pets and people, alongside veterinary and preventive care centers, and a legacy of supporting animal welfare.

Role Overview

As a Pet Stylist at Petco, you will deliver expert grooming services to cherished pets with the goal of enhancing their wellbeing and appearance. Your role encompasses detailed grooming tasks, prioritizing safety, comfort, and building positive relationships with both pets and their owners. This is an ideal position for groomers with established technical skills looking to advance their grooming expertise and productivity.

Core Responsibilities

• Execute comprehensive grooming services including baths, drying, brushing, haircuts, styling, nail care, ear cleaning, and gland expression in line with pet owner instructions and breed standards.
• Operate and upkeep grooming instruments such as clippers, blades, shears, brushes, and dryers.
• Ensure pet welfare by closely monitoring physical and behavioral indicators and escalated concerns promptly.
• Assess each pet’s individual grooming requirements by reviewing coat type, skin condition, and temperament.
• Communicate effectively with pet parents, offering exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries, and providing tailored grooming recommendations.
• Educate pet owners on grooming maintenance and home care products to foster pet health beyond the salon.
• Maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized grooming environment including tools and salon areas following Petco's hygiene protocols.
• Adhere strictly to Petco grooming policies to maintain high-quality, consistent service standards.
• Provide training and support to junior grooming team members during the absence of management.

Qualifications and Skills

• Completion of Petco’s Pet Stylist Apprentice program or equivalent grooming training and experience.
• High school diploma or GED preferred but not mandatory.
• Strong independent judgment and problem-solving abilities related to grooming scenarios, with occasional managerial guidance.
• Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to high standards and productivity.
• Passion for working with animals and pursuing a career in pet grooming.
• In-depth knowledge of dog breeds, grooming needs, health concerns, and behavior.
• Expertise in breed-specific grooming styles, cuts, and hair care techniques.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills for client and team interaction.
• Able to handle pets of varying sizes and temperaments with care and empathy.
• Availability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Work Environment

The role primarily takes place indoors within a grooming salon. It requires physical activity including bending, kneeling, lifting up to 30 pounds, and standing for extended periods. Some duties may involve working at heights with ladders or cleaning equipment in a wet, noisy environment.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive base salary.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan and other financial benefits.
• Paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Employee discounts on Petco products.
• Access to all essential grooming tools and state-of-the-art equipment.
• Opportunities for professional growth, including leadership and mentoring roles.

Core Values

• Pet First – Protect & Empower: Prioritizing the welfare of pets and supporting pet parents.
• Foster the Fun – Connect & Bond: Celebrating the joys of pet parenthood and building connections.
• Let’s Go! Own & Commit: Collaborating as one team, valuing authenticity and commitment to success.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Petco is an equitable employer that considers all qualified applicants without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected group.