Groomer

We’re proud to be "where the pets go" and "where the pet people go"—a place that’s improved lives for more than 60 years by offering meals, toys, supplies, and expert support from people who understand the joys and challenges of pet parenthood. With 29,000+ team members across 1,500+ Petco stores in the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive-care clinics, and eight distribution centers, we nurture the pet-human bond. Since 1999, our foundation, Petco Love, has supported thousands of local animal-welfare groups and helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events.

About the role

As a Pet Stylist at Petco, you’ll provide professional grooming services that ensure each pet looks and feels their best. This is an excellent opportunity for groomers with proven technical experience to grow their expertise in grooming and individual productivity.

Purpose

The Pet Stylist performs expert-level grooming services—bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts, styling, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning—while prioritizing the safety, comfort, and well-being of every pet. You’ll deliver high customer satisfaction, educate pet parents on grooming maintenance, and maintain a clean, safe salon environment.

Responsibilities

• Perform professional grooming services (bathing, drying, brushing, haircuts, styling, nail trimming, ear cleaning, gland cleaning) according to pet parent instructions, breed standards, and company policies.
• Operate and maintain grooming instruments (clippers, blades, shears, brushes, dryers) and state-of-the-art salon equipment (bathing systems, kennels, tables, dryers).
• Prioritize the well-being and safety of every animal; monitor for signs of discomfort, illness, or injury and report concerns to pet owners and management.
• Evaluate each pet’s individual needs (coat type, skin conditions, temperament) and tailor services accordingly.
• Interact professionally with pet parents: address inquiries, offer grooming recommendations, and resolve concerns.
• Educate pet parents on grooming maintenance, at-home care practices, and products to promote pet well-being.
• Maintain a clean, safe grooming area: disinfect tools/equipment, perform daily/weekly cleaning duties, and adhere to Petco hygiene/sanitation policies.
• Uphold Petco’s grooming policies, standards, and guidelines to ensure safety, quality, and consistency.
• Train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader.

Requirements

• Successful completion of Petco’s Pet Stylist Apprentice program or previous professional grooming experience or completion of a technical grooming training program.
• High-school diploma or GED preferred (not required).
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and problem-solving for routine to moderately complex situations, with guidance from leadership when needed.
• Results-driven with a commitment to productivity, performance, and ownership of your role.
• Strong attention to detail to execute grooming services accurately and to high standards.
• Genuine passion for animals and a desire to build a career in pet grooming.
• Expert knowledge of dog breeds, grooming requirements, common health issues, and behaviors.
• Proficiency in breed-specific cuts, styling techniques, and grooming standards.
• Strong verbal/written communication skills for interactions with pet parents and team members.
• Ability to handle pets of all sizes and temperaments with care and empathy.
• Availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as required by the grooming schedule.

Work Environment

The role is primarily indoors in the grooming salon. Duties require bending, kneeling, lifting (up to 30 pounds), and standing for long periods. Exposure to heights (e.g., using a two-step ladder) and noisy, wet conditions is common. You’ll spend time with pets, pet parents, and salon team members.

Skills

• Opportunity to showcase grooming skills, creativity, and passion for animals.
• Access to all necessary supplies and equipment (brushes, clippers, blades, shampoo, tools, etc.).
• Career development and growth opportunities (e.g., Grooming Salon Leader, Grooming Mentor, Grooming Instructor).

Benefits

• Competitive base pay.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off.
• Petco discounts.

Pay

Hourly pay ranges from $15.00 to $23.00, depending on position, location, experience, and applicable state/local minimum wage laws. If the regulatory minimum wage exceeds $23.00, it will apply.

For a detailed overview of Petco’s Total Rewards (health, financial benefits, 401K, incentives, PTO), visit https://careers.petco.com/us/en/key-benefits.