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Assistant Groomer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Junior Groomer

Durham, NC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Junior Groomer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Junior Groomer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Junior Groomer

Durham, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Junior Groomer

Holly Springs, NC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Groomer, Petsense

Raleigh, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Sanitizes and maintains upkeep of all grooming tools and equipment to eliminates injury and spread of diseases to other pet clients. * Assist in store operations as needed Required Qualifications ...

Groomer, Petsense

Clayton, NC

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Sanitizes and maintains upkeep of all grooming tools and equipment to eliminates injury and spread of diseases to other pet clients. * Assist in store operations as needed Required Qualifications ...

Groomer, Petsense

Clayton, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Sanitizes and maintains upkeep of all grooming tools and equipment to eliminates injury and spread of diseases to other pet clients. * Assist in store operations as needed Required Qualifications ...

Groomer, Petsense

Raleigh, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Sanitizes and maintains upkeep of all grooming tools and equipment to eliminates injury and spread of diseases to other pet clients. * Assist in store operations as needed Required Qualifications ...

Groomer, Petsense

Clayton, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Follow bathing/grooming procedures as outlined * Clean ears, clip nails and perform other needed ... * Assist in store operations as needed Required Qualifications Experience: Minimum of 1-year ...

Groomer, Petsense

Raleigh, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

Follow bathing/grooming procedures as outlined * Clean ears, clip nails and perform other needed ... * Assist in store operations as needed Required Qualifications Experience: Minimum of 1-year ...

Dog Bather

Raleigh, NC

$12.75 - $15.75/hr

Help maintain a calm, positive experience for every pet * Assist groomers as needed to ensure efficient appointments * Maintain a clean, organized, and professional mobile salon * Build positive ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Groomer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$19

$55

How much do assistant groomer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant groomer in Raleigh, NC is $19.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant groomer?

Assistant Groomers are entry-level professionals who support pet groomers in caring for and maintaining the hygiene of animals, primarily dogs and cats. Their responsibilities include bathing, brushing, drying, and sometimes light trimming of pets, as well as cleaning work areas and equipment. They also help calm pets, assist with handling during grooming, and prepare animals for the groomer. Assistant Groomers play a key role in ensuring pets are comfortable and that grooming sessions run smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant groomer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Groomer, you need basic animal handling skills, knowledge of pet breeds, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools such as clippers, brushes, and pet-safe cleaning products is important, and some employers may require pet CPR or first aid certification. Patience, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help build trust with pets and owners alike. These abilities ensure the safe, efficient, and compassionate care of animals, leading to satisfied clients and well-groomed pets.

What are some common challenges faced by an assistant groomer, and how can they be managed?

Assistant Groomers often encounter challenges such as handling anxious or aggressive animals, managing time during busy schedules, and learning to use grooming tools safely and effectively. Building rapport with pets and understanding their body language can help reduce stress for both the animal and the groomer. Additionally, clear communication with the lead groomer and team members ensures that everyone is aware of each pet's needs, making the workplace more efficient and supportive. Ongoing training and mentorship are also valuable for overcoming initial hurdles and growing in the role.

What is the difference between Assistant Groomer vs Pet Groomer?

AspectAssistant GroomerPet Groomer
CertificationsBasic grooming training, possibly certification coursesAdvanced grooming certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentAssists senior groomers in grooming salons or pet storesPerforms full grooming services independently or with supervision
Job ResponsibilitiesPrepares animals, assists with bathing, handling, and cleaningCuts, styles, and styles pets' fur, nails, and ears

The main difference between an Assistant Groomer and a Pet Groomer lies in responsibilities and experience. Assistant Groomers support grooming tasks and typically have basic training, while Pet Groomers perform complete grooming services, often requiring advanced skills and certifications. Both roles work in similar environments, such as grooming salons and pet stores, but Pet Groomers usually work more independently and handle more complex grooming tasks.

What are the most commonly searched types of Groomer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Groomer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Assistant Groomer jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Assistant Groomer job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Groomer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,237 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Petco rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 637 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

459th of 734 rated retailers


Job description

Want to help pets live their best lives?


We're proud to be where the pets go and where thepet peoplego. If you want to make a real difference, create an exciting career path, feel welcome to be your whole self and nurture your wellbeing,Petco is the place for you.


Our core values capture that spirit as we work to improve lives by doing what's right for pets and people.


  • Pet First - Protect & Empower.All pets shouldLive their Best Life.We put the needs of pets and pet parents at the center of everything we do.

  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond.OurPassionfor pets brings us together! We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services.

  • Let's Go! Own & Commit.We are stronger asOne Petco team.We bring our unique superpowers and champion authenticity in everyone to drive success.

About Petco:


We're proud to be"where the pets go"to find everything they need to live their best lives for more than 60 years - from their favorite meals and toys, to trusted supplies and expert support from people who get it, because we live it. We believe in the universal truths of pet parenthood - the boundless boops, missing slippers, late night zoomies and everything in between. And we're here for it. Every tail wag, every vet visit, every step of the way. We are29,000+strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than1,500Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico,250+Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics and eight distribution centers. In 1999, we foundedPetco Love. Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately7 million animalsthrough in-store adoption events.


Your Petco Grooming Career:

Begin your Petco journey as a Junior Pet Stylist in Grooming!

During this ten-week training period as a Junior Pet Stylist, you will learn fundamental grooming tasks such as brushing, bathing, drying, cutting nails, and more! Gaining hands-on experience with guidance from seasoned groomers, our industry leading program is designed to develop essential grooming skills and set the foundation for your future career with Petco Grooming.

In addition to our commitment to continuous training, development, and career growth, we also offer:

  • Competitive base pay
  • Medical, dental, vision and more
  • 401k and more
  • Paid Time Off
  • Petco Discounts
  • All the supplies & equipment you need, including, brushes, nail trimmers, clippers, blades, shampoo, sprays, tools, etc.
  • State of the art equipment, including bathing system, kennels, tables, and dryers

Purpose:

The Junior Pet Stylist's primary purpose is to learn how to perform the following services: bathing, drying, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning, alongside seasoned groomers. In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal customer services to pet parents. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about animals and grooming to start their career in the pet care industry.

Essential Job Functions:

The incumbent must be able to consistently perform all the following duties and responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodation.

  • Under close supervision of experienced groomers, perform limited grooming services including bathing, drying, nail trimming, brushing, ear cleaning, and gland cleaning according to the pet parents' instructions and in adherence to company policies and procedures
  • Ensure the well-being and safety of every animal in the salon at all times
  • Interact professionally and effectively with pet parents, provide optimal customer service, address grooming related inquiries and provide timely resolution
  • Maintain a clean and safe grooming area and salon, disinfect and sanitize grooming tools and equipment, perform daily and weekly cleaning duties in the salon and in adherence to Petco hygiene and sanitation policies, other cleaning and maintenance tasks as assigned, including but not limited to cleaning air filters, vents, and drains
  • Schedule grooming appointments, manage paperwork, and maintain accurate grooming records
  • Learn and adhere to Petco's grooming policies, standards, and guidelines to ensure safety, quality, and consistency in all activities and areas of the grooming business

Training Program Outline:

  • Weeks 1-3: Learning and On-the-Job Training
    • Learn dog behavior, pet and self-safety, proper check-in/out procedures, customer service, grooming policies, and begin on-the-job training in bathing and drying techniques
  • Weeks 3-10: Performing and Achieving Productivity
    • Perform bathing and walk-in services while achieving weekly productivity goals

Education/Experience:

  • 0-1 year of animal related experience, including shelter volunteering or pet sitting, prior grooming salon assistance is preferred
  • High-school diploma or GED is preferred, though not required
  • Genuine passion for animals and a desire to pursue a career in pet grooming
  • Basic understanding of dog breeds, behavior, and common grooming practices
  • Capable of handling pets of all sizes and temperaments with care and empathy
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills for interactions with pet parents and grooming team members
  • Availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays, as required by the Pet Care Center's grooming schedule

Work Environment:

The majority of job duties are conducted indoors in the grooming salon. Position requires bending, kneeling, lifting (up to 30 pounds, as necessary) and standing for long periods of time. Position may require exposure to heights using a two-step ladder or other support tools, such as vacuums, to perform assigned cleaning and maintenance duties. A large amount of this partner's time will be spent in direct contact with our pet parents and their dogs, and the remaining time will be with the other salon partners. The work environment can be noisy and wet.

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.

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