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Dog Grooming Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Barkbus

Pet Bather/Pet Groomer Trainee

Irvine, CA · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

As a Pet Stylist Trainee , you'll start in our training salon, refining your bathing skills and ... maneuver dogs up to 100 lbs with the use of the van's equipment (e.g., lift, grooming table ...

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Dog Grooming Trainee information

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$9

$29

$40

How much do dog grooming trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog grooming trainee in the United States is $29.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Dog Grooming Trainees?

Dog Grooming Trainees are individuals who are learning the skills necessary to professionally groom dogs. They typically work under the supervision of experienced groomers, assisting with bathing, brushing, nail trimming, and other grooming tasks while receiving hands-on training. This role helps trainees develop expertise in animal handling, grooming techniques, and safety procedures. Over time, Dog Grooming Trainees may become certified groomers and take on more responsibilities. The position is ideal for those who love animals and are interested in a career in pet care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dog Grooming Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dog Grooming Trainee, you need basic animal handling skills, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in animal care, with a high school diploma often required. Familiarity with grooming tools such as clippers, shears, and dryers, along with safety protocols, is typically taught on the job, though certification from grooming schools can be beneficial. Patience, strong communication, and a calm demeanor are important soft skills for building trust with pets and interacting with pet owners. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring animal safety, delivering quality grooming services, and creating positive customer experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by dog grooming trainees, and how can they be overcome?

Dog grooming trainees often face challenges such as handling anxious or uncooperative dogs, mastering grooming tools, and learning breed-specific grooming standards. It's important to remain patient, observant, and gentle with each animal to build trust and ensure safety. Seeking feedback from experienced groomers, enrolling in hands-on training programs, and practicing regularly can help trainees develop the necessary skills and confidence to overcome these initial obstacles.

What is the difference between Dog Grooming Trainee vs Dog Groomer?

AspectDog Grooming TraineeDog Groomer
CertificationsOften in training, may have beginner certificationsCertified or experienced professional
Work ExperienceOn-the-job training, limited experienceExperienced with grooming techniques
Work EnvironmentSupervised grooming salons, training settingsIndependent grooming salons, pet stores
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting, learning grooming skillsPerforming grooming services independently

The main difference between a Dog Grooming Trainee and a Dog Groomer is experience and responsibility level. Trainees are in training, assisting with grooming tasks, while groomers are fully qualified professionals performing grooming services independently.

More about Dog Grooming Trainee jobs
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Dog Grooming Trainee jobs near you

Dog Groomer

ROVER INDUSTRIES OF FLORIDA LLC

Lakeland, FL • On-site

$75K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Details

  • Full Time
  • $75,000 - $120,000 a year

Qualifications

  • Customer service
  • Pet grooming
  • Mid-level
  • Dog handling
  • Animal handling
  • Animal care
  • 2 years
  • Time management

Full Job Description

Full Time Professional Dog Groomer (Experienced Groomers Only)
BarkSuds | Lakeland, Fl.

BarkSuds is a busy, membership-based grooming salon in Sugar Land, and we are seeking a Full Time Professional Dog Groomer to join our team. This position is for experienced groomers only and is not a bather or grooming trainee role.

If you are confident in full grooms and value a calm, supportive environment where quality comes first, we’d love to hear from you.

This Role Is For You If You:

  • Can confidently complete full grooms independently from start to finish
  • Have experience with breed-standard and pet trims
  • Safely and calmly handle dogs of various sizes and temperaments
  • Communicate clearly with clients about coat condition, matting, and grooming needs
  • Take pride in quality, consistency, and dog-first handling

This Role Is Not For:

  • Bathers only
  • Grooming students or apprentices
  • Candidates still building core haircutting skills

Requirements:

  • 2+ years of professional grooming experience required
  • Strong scissoring and clipper skills
  • Reliable, professional, and detail-oriented
  • Tue - Sat availability required (9am-4pm)
  • Occasional Saturday availability required
  • Must submit a portfolio of recent grooming work (photos required)

What We Offer:

  • 75 - 80% commission + tips (based on experience)
  • Supportive, upbeat work environment
  • Casual work attire
  • Consistent, repeat membership clientele
  • No late nights — real work/life balance

Why BarkSuds?

We are not a high-volume, rush-through shop. BarkSuds prioritizes healthy dogs, educated pet parents, and a respectful environment for groomers. Your time, skills, and well-being matter here.