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Groomer Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level grooming staff, provide coaching, feedback, training, and performance evaluations, while fostering a ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level grooming staff, provide coaching, feedback, training, and performance evaluations, while fostering a ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Portage, IN · On-site

Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level grooming staff, provide coaching, feedback, training, and performance evaluations, while fostering a ...

Petco

Grooming Salon Manager

Portage, IN · On-site

Recruit, hire, train, and supervise a team of entry-level trainees up to professional level grooming staff, provide coaching, feedback, training, and performance evaluations, while fostering a ...

All JobsGroomer JobsGroomer Trainee JobsGroomer Trainee Jobs in Indiana

Groomer Trainee information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$27

$38

How much do groomer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for groomer trainee in Indiana is $27.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.88 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a groomer trainee?

Groomer trainees are individuals who are learning the skills and techniques required to become professional pet groomers. They typically work under the supervision of experienced groomers, assisting with tasks such as bathing, brushing, drying, and basic trimming of animals, often dogs and cats. Groomer trainees gain hands-on experience with various breeds, coat types, and grooming tools while also learning about animal behavior and safety. This entry-level position is a stepping stone towards becoming a certified or full-time groomer.

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

To thrive as a Groomer Trainee, you need basic animal handling skills, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools such as clippers, brushes, and pet-safe cleaning products is important, and on-the-job training or certifications in pet grooming can be beneficial. Strong attention to detail, patience, and effective communication with pet owners set outstanding candidates apart. These skills ensure pets are groomed safely and effectively, leading to customer satisfaction and a positive environment for both animals and staff.

What are some common challenges a groomer trainee may face during their initial months on the job?

As a Groomer Trainee, one of the main challenges is learning to handle a variety of animal temperaments safely while building the trust of both pets and their owners. Mastering grooming techniques such as bathing, brushing, and trimming requires patience and practice, especially under the supervision of experienced groomers. Additionally, trainees often need to adapt quickly to a fast-paced environment and manage tasks like cleaning workspaces and maintaining equipment. Collaboration with other team members, such as receptionists and senior groomers, is essential to ensure smooth workflow and excellent customer service.

What is the difference between Groomer Trainee vs Groomer?

AspectGroomer TraineeGroomer
CredentialsOn-the-job training, some certificationsCompleted training, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervised grooming salons, animal care facilitiesIndependent grooming salons, pet stores, veterinary clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting groomers, learning grooming techniquesPerforming grooming services independently

The main difference between a Groomer Trainee and a Groomer is that a Groomer Trainee is in the learning phase, often working under supervision and gaining experience, while a Groomer has completed training and can perform grooming services independently.

Do dog grooming apprentices get paid?

Dog grooming apprentices often receive a stipend or hourly wage while training, but payment policies vary by employer and program. Some apprenticeships are unpaid or offer minimal compensation, while others pay as they gain skills and experience in grooming techniques and handling tools. It is important to clarify compensation details before starting an apprenticeship.

What are the most commonly searched types of Groomer jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Groomer jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Groomer Trainee jobs in Indiana?

For Groomer Trainee jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Groomer Trainee jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Groomer Trainee jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Groomer Trainee jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Groomer Trainee job openings:

Groomer Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Groomer Trainee job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,120 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Pet Bather/Pet Groomer Trainee - Pet Spa Team Full-Time

PetSuites

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$12 - $13/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Re-posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Pet Bather/Pet Groomer Trainee - Pet Spa Team| Full-Time

No grooming experience is required!

Start Your Career in Professional Pet Grooming

Love animals and interested in building a career in the pet industry? We are looking for motivated individuals who are passionate about pet care and eager to learn the skills needed to become a professional pet groomer.

We're passionate about helping pets look and feel their best. Through our partnership with Paragon Pet Grooming School, qualified team members/applicants may have the opportunity to participate in a structured distance-learning grooming education program to become certified pet groomers while gaining real-world experience in a professional pet resort environment.

Who We Are

NVA Pet Resorts is part of National Veterinary Associates (NVA) - the largest private owner of veterinary hospitals and pet resorts in North America, with 1,300+ locations. We're proud to be in an $8B+ industry that continues to grow as pet parents seek premium, trusted care for their furry family members.

At NVA Pet Resorts, our mission is simple:

Create safe, fun, and loving environments for pets while providing exceptional experiences for our clients and team members.

What You'll Do

As a groomer trainee, you'll work as a bather alongside our pet care and grooming teams while building the knowledge and skills needed for a successful grooming career.

Responsibilities may include:

  • Assisting with bathing and drying services
  • Supporting groomers with salon preparation and pet handling
  • Learning pet safety and gentle handling techniques
  • Participating in assigned educational coursework and skill development activities
  • Conduct client consultations to understand grooming goals and expectations
  • Recommend services and products that support pet health and coat maintenance
  • Monitor pets for health concerns and communicate observations to site leaders and pet parents
  • Maintain grooming equipment and a clean, safe workspace
  • Provide exceptional customer service before, during, and after each appointment
  • Follow all company policies and procedures including our safety and animal handling standards
  • Promote and engage in opportunities to grow sales to help achieve revenue targets and other salon metrics
  • Attend required team meetings and trainings
  • Other grooming/ salon duties as assigned by site leader

What We're Looking For

  • Passion for animal care and safe, gentle handling practices
  • Positive attitude, strong work ethic and willingness to learn
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment
  • Attention to detail and commitment to pet safety
  • Reliable, organized, and detail-oriented
  • Experience in pet care, boarding, daycare, veterinary medicine, retail, hospitality, or customer service is helpful but not required

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout the workday
  • Ability to safely handle pets of varying sizes and temperaments
  • Ability to lift up to 60 pounds
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and maintain attention to detail
  • Ability to work in an environment that includes pet hair, water, cleaning products, and normal pet-related messes

Grow Your Grooming Career with Us

We believe in investing in future grooming professionals.

Through our partnership with Paragon Pet Grooming School, eligible team members may have access to a structured distance-learning program designed to teach grooming fundamentals, safety, breed knowledge, and professional grooming techniques.

Benefits & Perks

  • No professional grooming experience required
  • Career path into a high-demand profession
  • Established client base and consistent grooming demand
  • Supportive resort team and leadership
  • Partnership with Paragon Pet Grooming School for advanced skill development and career growth
  • Employee Pet Care Discounts
  • Insurance
  • Health, Dental & Vision

Equal Opportunity Employer

NVA Pet Resorts is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace.

PetSuites is the leader of the pack in pet resorts offering exceptional services for both dogs and cats, ranging from boarding and daycare to grooming and training. Our trusted team of professionals delivers memorable experiences with personalized service in fun, convenient, and modern spaces.

Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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