Pet Store Groomer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of pet care, the demand for pet store groomers has never been higher.
As pet ownership rises, so does the need for skilled individuals who can pamper, groom, and ensure the well-being of our four-legged companions.
But what does it truly mean to be a pet store groomer?
Whether you are:
- An aspiring professional trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
- A store manager in search of the perfect addition to your team,
- Or simply intrigued by the world of pet grooming,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a comprehensive pet store groomer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Pet Store Groomer Duties and Responsibilities
Pet Store Groomers perform a variety of tasks related to pet grooming and care.
They often interact directly with customers and their pets, providing grooming services, advice, and products.
Pet Store Groomers have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Consult with pet owners to determine their desired grooming services
- Perform grooming services, such as bathing, brushing, clipping nails, and styling fur according to breed standards or owners’ specifications
- Inspect pets for signs of skin disorders or diseases and report any concerns to pet owners
- Use a variety of grooming tools, including shears, clippers, nail trimmers, and brushes
- Maintain grooming station by cleaning and disinfecting tools and work area
- Handle pets calmly and safely to minimize stress during grooming
- Recommend pet grooming products such as shampoos, conditioners, and brushes suitable for different breeds or specific pet needs
- Manage appointments and maintain records of each pet’s grooming history
- Restock grooming supplies as needed
Pet Store Groomer Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a skilled and compassionate Pet Store Groomer to join our team.
The Pet Store Groomer will be responsible for maintaining pets’ appearances, ensuring they are looking healthy and well-groomed.
This includes bath, trimming hair/fur, nail clipping, cleaning ears, and providing general pet grooming services.
Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of animal behavior and is sensitive to their needs.
Responsibilities
- Perform grooming services including brushing, bathing, ear and teeth cleaning, expression of glands, and trimming nails
- Comfort, reassure and calm pets during grooming
- Conduct initial consultation with pet owners to discuss grooming needs and style
- Operate grooming tools and equipment safely
- Maintain grooming records and monitor pet health
- Ensure the cleanliness of grooming areas
- Work with store team to provide excellent customer service
- Identify any potential health problems or pests that the pet may have and report them to the pet owner
Qualifications
- Previous work experience as a Pet Groomer
- Proficiency in using grooming tools and equipment
- Knowledge of different breeds and their grooming styles
- Ability to handle pets of various sizes and temperaments
- Strong communication skills
- High school diploma; certification from a grooming school is preferable
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Employee discount
Additional Information
- Job Title: Pet Store Groomer
- Work Environment: Pet Store. Some weekend work may be required.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Store Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $25,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-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 Store Groomer Do?
Pet Store Groomers provide grooming services in pet stores, working with various breeds of dogs, and occasionally cats or other pets.
Their primary responsibilities include bathing, brushing, clipping, and styling a pet’s fur according to the pet owner’s instructions or standard grooming styles.
Pet Store Groomers are also trained to clean pets’ ears, brush their teeth, and trim their nails.
They often use a variety of grooming tools, such as shears, clippers, and combs.
Some Pet Store Groomers may also have the skills to detect skin conditions or other health issues, which they then report to the pet owner.
They are responsible for ensuring the comfort and safety of the pet throughout the grooming process, and often work closely with pet store staff to provide a comprehensive care experience for pets.
Pet Store Groomers are typically trained in animal handling and behavior, which allows them to manage pets of different sizes and temperaments.
They need to have a strong understanding of different breed characteristics and grooming needs to provide a personalized grooming service.
In addition, they are expected to maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary workspace for grooming.
Pet Store Groomer Qualifications and Skills
A pet store groomer should have a variety of skills and qualifications to ensure the health and happiness of the pets in their care, including:
- Animal handling skills to manage pets of various sizes, temperaments, and breeds.
- Knowledge of pet grooming techniques and understanding of different breed-specific requirements.
- Patience and a gentle demeanor to soothe anxious pets and ensure a positive grooming experience.
- Physical endurance to stand for long periods and perform tasks such as lifting heavy pets or equipment.
- Interpersonal and communication skills to interact with pet owners, understand their preferences, and provide advice on pet care.
- Attention to detail to observe any skin issues or abnormalities that a pet may have and report it to the pet owner.
- Time management skills to complete grooming services in a timely manner without rushing the process.
- Customer service skills for scheduling appointments, handling transactions, and following up with clients.
- Knowledge of pet health and safety regulations to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for grooming.
Pet Store Groomer Experience Requirements
Pet Store Groomers typically gain their initial experience through a professional grooming program or vocational school, where they are taught a variety of grooming techniques for different animal species, health and safety protocols, and customer service skills.
Many pet store groomers often kickstart their careers by gaining hands-on experience through internships or assistant roles at pet stores, veterinary offices, or animal shelters.
This can help them understand the practical application of their theoretical knowledge, and become familiar with the day-to-day responsibilities of a pet groomer.
Entry-level groomers typically have 1 to 2 years of experience, often starting as bathers or grooming assistants where they learn how to handle animals, trim nails, clean ears, and bathe pets before moving on to more complex tasks like hair cutting and styling.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are usually adept in handling a variety of grooming tasks for multiple pet species.
They may also have experience in customer relations, appointment scheduling, and maintaining grooming records.
Groomers with more than 5 years of experience may have managerial experience or the ability to train and supervise junior groomers.
They may have developed specialized skills, such as breed-specific grooming techniques, and could be ready for a supervisory or management role within a pet store or grooming salon.
Pet Store Groomer Education and Training Requirements
Pet Store Groomers often begin their careers with a high school diploma or equivalent, though further education in a related field such as veterinary assistance or animal science can be beneficial.
Many groomers gain their skills on the job, starting as an assistant to an experienced groomer, where they learn basic tasks such as bathing and drying, brushing, and safe handling of animals.
Formal training programs are also available and typically involve both theoretical and hands-on components.
These programs may result in a diploma, certificate, or associate’s degree in pet grooming.
Topics covered can include animal anatomy, health and safety procedures, grooming techniques, and equipment use.
Voluntary certification is available from the National Dog Groomers Association of America.
To achieve certification, groomers must demonstrate proficiency in breed-specific grooming techniques and pass a written exam.
While not mandatory, a certified pet groomer may have better job prospects and command a higher salary.
Continuing education and advanced certifications are also available for groomers looking to specialize in a particular area, such as cat grooming, or improve their skills.
A successful Pet Store Groomer also needs a genuine love for animals, patience, and excellent customer service skills.
Pet Store Groomer Salary Expectations
A Pet Store Groomer can expect to earn an average wage of $12.92 (USD) per hour.
The actual earnings can fluctuate depending on the level of experience, location, and the pet store or company employing them.
Pet Store Groomer Job Description FAQs
What skills does a Pet Store Groomer need?
A Pet Store Groomer should have strong animal handling skills and knowledge of various breeds and their grooming needs.
The groomer should also have excellent communication skills to understand the pet owners’ requirements and to handle any concerns or queries they might have.
Physical stamina, patience, and a genuine love for animals are also essential.
Additionally, the groomer should be skilled in using grooming tools such as clippers, scissors, and brushes.
Do Pet Store Groomers need a degree?
Pet Store Groomers do not need a degree, but they usually require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Many groomers gain their skills through an apprenticeship or on-the-job training.
However, some choose to attend grooming schools to acquire formal training and certifications.
This may give them an edge in a competitive job market.
What should you look for in a Pet Store Groomer resume?
When reviewing a Pet Store Groomer’s resume, look for experience in grooming a variety of breeds.
Certifications or training from reputable grooming schools can be a plus.
Any experience working with animals, such as at a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, can also be beneficial.
Finally, strong references from previous employers or clients can attest to the groomer’s skills and animal handling abilities.
What qualities make a good Pet Store Groomer?
A good Pet Store Groomer is empathetic and understands animal behavior.
They have patience and treat each pet with care and respect.
Good groomers have a keen eye for detail, enabling them to carry out grooming tasks to the owners’ satisfaction while ensuring the animal’s comfort.
They also possess excellent customer service skills, as they need to effectively communicate with pet owners and address any concerns or queries.
Is it difficult to hire Pet Store Groomers?
Hiring Pet Store Groomers can be challenging due to the specific skills and experience required for this job role.
It’s essential to find candidates who have the right balance of technical grooming skills, animal handling capabilities, and excellent customer service skills.
Offering competitive pay, a positive working environment, and opportunities for professional development can help attract qualified candidates.
Conclusion
There you have it.
We’ve just revealed the nitty-gritty behind the scenes of being a pet store groomer.
Guess what?
It’s not just about trimming fur and washing tails.
It’s about ensuring each pet’s health and happiness, one grooming session at a time.
Armed with our tried-and-tested pet store groomer job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to step up your game.
But why halt your progress there?
Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every grooming session contributes to a pet’s overall well-being.
Let’s create a brighter future for our furry friends. Together.