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Groomer Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Groomer

Roscoe, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $20/hr

ASSISTANT GROOMER | Are you a HUGE dog lover? Are you afraid of hard work... because we aren't ... apprenticeship program available here at Meyer's. We want to help you grow. There will be ...

Assistant Groomer

Roscoe, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $20/hr

ASSISTANT GROOMER | Are you a HUGE dog lover? Are you afraid of hard work... because we aren't ... apprenticeship program available here at Meyer's. We want to help you grow. There will be ...

Position: Nail Apprentice About MiniLuxe Over the last decade, we have been reimagining and ... Presenting a professional appearance in conjunction with MiniLuxe grooming standards * Educating ...

Assistant Groomer

Roscoe, IL ยท On-site

$15 - $20/hr

ASSISTANT GROOMER | Are you a HUGE dog lover? Are you afraid of hard work... because we aren't ... apprenticeship program available here at Meyer's. We want to help you grow. There will be ...

Apprentice Crew

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$24/hr

Weeding and grooming planting beds and containers. * Plant installation and apply organic ... Landscape Apprentice: starting wage $24.00/hour BENEFITS Health insurance. Vision insurance. Dental ...

Apprentice Crew

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$24/hr

Weeding and grooming planting beds and containers. * Plant installation and apply organic ... Landscape Apprentice: starting wage $24.00/hour BENEFITS Health insurance. Vision insurance. Dental ...

Sushi Apprentice

Scottsdale, AZ ยท On-site

$16 - $19/hr

KUZA Scottsdale (Tatum & Cactus) Pay Rate: $17/hour Job Summary The Sushi Apprentice supports KUZA ... Professional appearance aligned with KUZA kitchen and grooming standards. * Punctuality ...

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Groomer Apprentice information

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$10

$16

$25

How much do groomer apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for groomer apprentice in the United States is $16.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a groomer apprentice?

Groomer Apprentices are individuals who are training to become professional pet groomers. They work under the supervision of experienced groomers to learn essential skills such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, and handling animals safely. Groomer Apprentices gain hands-on experience with various breeds and coat types, as well as knowledge of customer service and grooming equipment. This role is typically an entry-level position and serves as a stepping stone to becoming a certified or full-fledged groomer.

What are some common challenges faced by groomer apprentices during their training period?

Groomer Apprentices often encounter challenges such as learning to handle anxious or uncooperative animals, mastering safe grooming techniques, and adapting to a fast-paced work environment. Building trust with pets while ensuring their safety requires patience and strong observation skills. Additionally, apprentices must quickly become familiar with various grooming tools and breed-specific styles, all while maintaining a clean and organized workspace. Support from experienced groomers and ongoing practice help apprentices overcome these hurdles and grow in confidence.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a groomer apprentice?

To thrive as a Groomer Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of animal care, grooming techniques, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools such as clippers, shears, brushes, and bathing systems is typically required, and some employers may prefer certification from grooming programs. Patience, attention to detail, strong communication, and a gentle demeanor with animals help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring animal safety, client satisfaction, and building a successful career in pet grooming.

Can you become a groomer apprentice without going to school?

Yes, it is possible to become a groomer apprentice without formal schooling, as many grooming salons hire apprentices based on their interest and willingness to learn. However, completing a grooming program or course can provide valuable skills and may improve job prospects, and some states or employers may require or prefer formal training or certifications. Practical experience and a good understanding of animal care are essential for success in this role.

Do dog groomer apprentices do apprenticeships?

Yes, dog groomer apprenticeships are structured training programs that allow individuals to learn grooming skills under the supervision of experienced groomers. These apprenticeships typically include hands-on practice, skill development, and may lead to certification or licensing in pet grooming.

What is the difference between Groomer Apprentice vs Groomer?

AspectGroomer ApprenticeGroomer
CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certification programsState licensing or certification often required
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised by experienced groomersIndependent work, performing grooming services
Job RoleAssists and learns grooming techniquesPerforms grooming services independently

The Groomer Apprentice is in a training phase, gaining skills under supervision, while the Groomer is a fully qualified professional providing grooming services independently. The apprentice role focuses on learning, whereas the groomer role emphasizes experience and certification.

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Infographic showing various Groomer Apprentice job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,669 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Dog Groomer - Must have experience

Central Bark USA dba Lucky Leash Resorts LLC

Grayslake, IL โ€ข On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Summary:  Responsible for the grooming of day care dogs as well as outside clientele. We operate 365 days a year; Groomers are expected to work their agreed upon shifts. Approximately 80% of your time will be standing on your feet bathing, brushing, drying, clipping and generally grooming dogs, 10% will be scheduling grooms, communicating with owners, and receiving and releasing dogs, 10% is spent on general cleaning of the grooming area, doing grooming associated laundry, etc. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
  • Discussing grooming requests with customers. 
  • Scheduling grooms. 
  • Receiving and releasing dogs to and from owners. 
  • Bathing, trimming nails, cleaning ears, brushing, blow-drying, clipping, shaving, and expressing anal glands. Perform breed specific trims along with customer requested grooming cuts 
  • Maintaining grooming records and establishing a relationship with customers. 
  • Promoting grooming at Central Bark. 
  • Attending seminars, events and trade shows to promote Central Bark. 

Qualifications:  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience: Grooming experience is required. This experience may be in the form of a formal Grooming Degree or of gained working experience as an apprentice to an established groomer. Proper dog handling skills are required to offer grooming dogs a safe and calm environment. Knowledge of dog behavior is preferred to keep the groomer and dog safe. Training and seminars may be scheduled during non-working hours where your attendance may be required. 
Physical Skills: Ability to perform a variety of demanding physical activities, including lifting a minimum of 50 pounds (whether it is a bag of dog food, a crate or a dog), and standing for long periods of time. Grasping, pinching and pulling skills are also needed to leash and collar dogs as well as control them as well as the repeated motions associated with grooming dogs.
Health: It is required that all Groomers are current on their Tetanus vaccination. Language Skills: Ability to read dog information including names, medication and feeding instructions, and grooming instructions.  Be able to communicate dog issues with management either via written or oral communication. Be able to maintain a clear record of grooms performed.
Mathematical Skills: Basic measuring and counting abilities as related to cleaning, medications, feedings or counting change back to customers.
Computer Skills: A basic understanding of Windows based applications is helpful. Reasoning Ability: Ability to define problems, analyze emergencies and think on your feet. Ability to deal rationally with irrational customers.
Reasoning Ability: Ability to define problems, analyze emergencies and think on your feet. Ability to deal rationally with irrational customers.