Groomer

About Petco

Petco has been a trusted provider for pets and pet owners for over six decades, supplying everything needed for pets to thrive, from nourishing food and fun toys to expert advice from passionate pet lovers. With more than 29,000 team members, Petco supports the pet-human relationship across over 1,500 stores in the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico, in addition to veterinary hospitals, care clinics, and distribution centers. The company also champions animal welfare through its nonprofit initiatives, facilitating millions of pet adoptions nationwide.

Role Overview

As a Petco Pet Stylist, you will deliver professional grooming services including bathing, drying, brushing, styling haircuts, trimming nails, cleansing ears, and gland care, focusing on the safety and wellbeing of every pet. You will ensure top-quality grooming aligned with breed standards while providing superior service to pet parents. Additional responsibilities may include assisting leadership and maintaining grooming salon standards and cleanliness.

Core Responsibilities

• Perform professional grooming procedures under moderate to limited supervision, following pet parent instructions and company protocols.
• Use and upkeep grooming tools and equipment such as clippers, blades, shears, brushes, dryers, and bathing systems.
• Constantly prioritize animal welfare during grooming sessions and promptly report any discomfort or health concerns to relevant parties.
• Assess individual pet needs based on factors like coat type, skin condition, and behavior.
• Engage with customers professionally, offering grooming advice, answering questions, and delivering excellent service.
• Educate pet owners on grooming maintenance and appropriate home care products.
• Maintain a clean, hygienic, and safe grooming environment by following sanitation procedures and performing regular cleaning tasks.
• Adhere strictly to Petco grooming policies and standards to ensure consistent quality and safety throughout the grooming process.
• Support and potentially supervise entry-level groomers in the absence of higher leadership.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Completion of Petco's Pet Stylist Apprentice program, or prior professional grooming experience and/or formal technical grooming training.
• High school diploma or GED is preferred but not mandatory.
• Ability to make independent judgments and solve routine to moderately complex grooming problems with some guidance.
• Strong dedication to productivity, quality results, and ownership within the grooming role.
• Exceptional attention to detail ensuring grooming services meet high standards.
• Passion for animals and ambition to build a career in pet grooming.
• Deep understanding of diverse dog breeds, grooming needs, health issues, and behaviors.
• Expertise in breed-specific grooming cuts and styling techniques.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.
• Capability to handle pets of various sizes and temperaments with compassion and care.
• Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as required by the grooming schedule.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

The role is primarily indoors within the grooming salon where the environment may be noisy and damp. It involves physical activities including bending, kneeling, lifting up to 30 pounds, standing for long durations, and occasionally working at heights with support tools. Most work time involves direct interaction with pets and their owners as well as salon team members.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive base salary
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan and additional benefits
• Paid time off for rest and recuperation
• Discounts available on Petco products and supplies
• Provision of all necessary grooming tools and equipment including brushes, nail trimmers, clippers, blades, shampoos, sprays, and dryers
• Access to advanced salon equipment such as bathing systems, grooming tables, kennels, and dryers
• Opportunities for career advancement including roles like Grooming Salon Leader, Mentor, and Instructor

Company Values

• Pet First – Protect & Empower: Prioritizing the needs and wellbeing of pets and their owners.
• Foster the Fun – Connect & Bond: Celebrating the joys of pet ownership with a passionate team culture.
• Let’s Go! Own & Commit: Emphasizing teamwork, authenticity, and dedication to success.

Additional Information

This position encourages inclusivity and equal opportunity and complies with policies protecting against discrimination based on race, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected categories.