Pet Groomer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an ever-evolving world where pets are considered family, the role of a pet groomer has become more significant than ever before.

As pet ownership trends upward, so too does the demand for skilled individuals who can effectively groom, pamper, and ensure the well-being of our beloved pets.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a pet groomer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of pet grooming,

You’ve landed on the right page.

Today, we present a customizable pet groomer job description template, primed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Pet Groomer Duties and Responsibilities

Pet Groomers provide hygiene and grooming services for a variety of pets, most often dogs and cats.

They also assess the overall health of the pet and provide recommendations for at-home care to pet owners.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Consult with pet owners to understand their expectations and preferences for pet grooming
• Wash, rinse, and dry pets’ coats using grooming shampoos and conditioners
• Trim, cut, or shave pets’ fur, hair, or nails using grooming tools
• Inspect pets for any skin conditions, ticks, fleas, or other health concerns and alert pet owners
• Brush and clean pets’ teeth
• Ensure the safety and comfort of the pets during grooming procedures
• Keep grooming facilities clean and sanitized
• Maintain records of pet grooming services provided and any observed health concerns
• Provide advice to pet owners on home grooming techniques
• Order grooming supplies as needed

 

Pet Groomer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a caring and attentive Pet Groomer to join our team.

The responsibilities of a Pet Groomer include washing, cutting, brushing, and styling the fur of pets, mostly dogs, according to the owner’s instructions or standard grooming styles.

Our ideal candidate is an experienced professional who is patient, has a passion for animals, and understands animal behavior.

The role of the Pet Groomer is to ensure that pets are groomed in a stress-free, safe environment.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform grooming services including brushing, bathing, ear and teeth cleaning, expressing anal glands, trimming nails, and styling fur to owner’s specifications or breed standards
• Maintain grooming records including pet’s grooming needs, special requests from pet owners, and any behavioral issues
• Inspect pets for any skin conditions or abnormalities and report them to the pet owners
• Ensure all grooming equipment and tools are clean and in working order
• Manage appointments and accept payments for grooming services
• Provide outstanding customer service, educating pet owners on maintaining their pet’s coat as well as overall health

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a professional Pet Groomer
• Knowledge of different breeds and their grooming styles
• Excellent animal handling skills and a genuine love for animals
• Understanding of animal behavior
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift pets up to 50 pounds
• High school diploma or equivalent. Certification from a grooming school is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Discounted pet grooming and pet products

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Pet Groomer
• Work Environment: Animal friendly environment. Physical work involving washing and grooming animals.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Pet Grooming Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Pet Groomer Do?

Pet Groomers are professionals who work primarily with various types of pets, particularly dogs and cats.

They are often employed in pet grooming salons, veterinary clinics, pet shops or they might operate their own grooming business.

They provide a range of services including washing, drying, brushing, cutting and styling the pet’s fur.

They also trim nails, clean ears, and may provide specialized treatments such as flea baths or de-matting services.

Some Pet Groomers may also offer aesthetic services such as creative grooming where they color, shape or design the pet’s fur in a unique and visually appealing way.

Pet Groomers often interact with pets of different sizes, breeds and temperaments.

Therefore, they need to have good animal handling skills and patience to keep the pet calm and safe during the grooming process.

They also consult with pet owners to understand their preferences and provide appropriate care for the pets.

Providing a high level of customer service and maintaining a clean and hygienic work environment is also an important part of their role.

 

Pet Groomer Qualifications and Skills

A competent Pet Groomer should possess the necessary skills and qualifications that would enable them to efficiently and effectively handle the grooming needs of various types of pets:

• Experience and technical knowledge in pet grooming, including the ability to handle a variety of breeds and pet sizes, and understanding the specific grooming needs of different animals.
• Strong interpersonal skills to establish and maintain a good rapport with pet owners, ensuring repeat business and a positive grooming experience for the pets.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to handle pets of varying sizes and to perform grooming tasks with precision and care.
• Patience and a calm demeanor to handle animals that may be nervous or agitated, ensuring a safe and stress-free environment for the animals during grooming.
• Attention to detail to recognize any abnormalities or health issues in the pets they groom, and to carry out grooming tasks meticulously.
• Good communication skills to understand specific requests and needs from pet owners, and to provide feedback and suggestions regarding the pet’s grooming and health.
• Excellent customer service skills for scheduling appointments, managing transactions, and providing follow-up care.
• Ability to maintain a clean and safe working environment, following all safety and sanitation procedures.

 

Pet Groomer Experience Requirements

Aspiring pet groomers often start their journey by attending a professional grooming school or a training program where they learn the basics of grooming different types of pets.

The duration of these programs can vary from a few weeks to several months.

In order to gain practical experience, some trainees might also choose to work as an assistant in a pet grooming salon while still undergoing their training.

This provides them with first-hand experience of handling different breeds and temperaments, as well as knowledge of various grooming techniques.

After completing their training, an entry-level pet groomer may have 1-2 years of hands-on experience.

They might have worked as part-time or volunteer pet groomers, or held roles in pet care facilities such as boarding kennels or animal shelters.

Those with 3-5 years of experience in pet grooming may have expanded their skills to include specialized grooming techniques such as hand-stripping or creative grooming, and have demonstrated proficiency in handling a wide range of pets, including those with special needs or behavioral issues.

Pet groomers with more than 5 years of experience are considered veterans in their field.

They may have developed expertise in grooming specific breeds or species and might be ready to take on a managerial role in a grooming salon, start their own pet grooming business, or even become a pet grooming instructor.

 

Pet Groomer Education and Training Requirements

Pet Groomers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Though formal education is not always mandatory, many groomers opt to complete a training program or apprenticeship in pet grooming.

These programs often entail both theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience, and can be completed through vocational schools or private grooming salons.

Upon completion, groomers often receive a certificate of completion or a diploma.

Many states require pet groomers to be licensed.

Licensure generally requires a certain number of hours of hands-on training under a licensed groomer, passing a practical skills exam, and sometimes a written examination.

It is also beneficial for pet groomers to have a basic understanding of animal behavior and be capable of recognizing signs of stress or discomfort in the animals they work with.

While not necessary, some pet groomers choose to pursue voluntary certification through professional organizations such as the National Dog Groomers Association of America.

This certification process typically involves a combination of written and practical examinations, and demonstrates a pet groomer’s competence and commitment to the profession.

Continuous education and staying updated with the latest grooming techniques and safety protocols is also crucial in this field.

This may be achieved through seminars, workshops, or online courses.

This not only improves the groomer’s skill set but also ensures the safety and well-being of the pets they handle.

 

Pet Groomer Salary Expectations

A Pet Groomer can expect to earn an average wage of $13.03 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the company or pet salon they work for.

 

Pet Groomer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Pet Groomer need?

A Pet Groomer needs to have excellent animal handling skills and a deep understanding of different pet breeds and their grooming needs.

They should also possess good communication skills to understand the owner’s requests and requirements.

Attention to detail is essential to monitor pets for any skin conditions or unusual findings during grooming.

 

Do Pet Groomers need a certificate or degree?

While a degree is not necessary to become a Pet Groomer, many professionals in this field attend grooming schools or obtain certification through national organizations.

This kind of training will teach them about the different breeds, grooming styles, safety procedures, and basic animal healthcare.

 

What should you look for in a Pet Groomer resume?

A good Pet Groomer resume should include their training and certifications, if any, along with their experience in the field.

Also, it’s important to look for skills such as patience, compassion for animals, and knowledge of various grooming techniques.

References from previous employers or clients can also be useful in determining their competence and professionalism.

 

What qualities make a good Pet Groomer?

A good Pet Groomer is patient, caring, and able to keep calm under stress.

They need to have a genuine love for animals and take pleasure in improving a pet’s appearance.

Attention to detail is key, as well as having the physical stamina for the demands of the job.

Good Pet Groomers also keep up with the latest grooming trends and techniques.

 

Is it difficult to find qualified Pet Groomers?

Finding qualified Pet Groomers can be challenging, as it requires a unique combination of skills and a love for animals.

Potential candidates need to have the technical skills for grooming different breeds, as well as the ability to handle pets safely and comfortably.

Offering competitive pay, flexible hours, and a positive work environment can help attract and retain skilled Pet Groomers.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled what it truly takes to be a pet groomer.

And guess what?

It’s not just about trimming fur.

It’s about creating a comfortable, hygienic, and stylish experience for our furry friends, one snip at a time.

With our comprehensive pet groomer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to jumpstart your career.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every groom is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s shape a better world for pets. Together.

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