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Groomer Trainee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

PetSuites

Professional Pet Bather

Indianapolis, IN

$14 - $15/hr

All haircutting services are performed by Groomers. What You'll Do Bathing & Pet Care * Perform professional bathing services based on client requests * Brush out coats, dry pets thoroughly, trim ...

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

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 ...

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 Aug 8, 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 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,120 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Professional Pet Bather

PetSuites

Indianapolis, IN

$14 - $15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Professional Pet Bather Full-Time | Pet Spa Team

Are you dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to safe, high-quality pet care?

We are seeking a Professional Pet Bather to join our Pet Spa team. This role is ideal for someone who values safety, cleanliness, efficiency, and clear communication with both team members and pet parents. This is a hands-on, physically active role that requires strong time management and attention to detail.

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.

Position Overview

The Bather plays a critical role in supporting the Grooming and Spa team. You are responsible for delivering safe, thorough bathing services while maintaining strict sanitation standards and clear communication.

Bathers do not perform haircuts of any kind. All haircutting services are performed by Groomers.

What You’ll Do Bathing & Pet Care

  • Perform professional bathing services based on client requests
  • Brush out coats, dry pets thoroughly, trim nails, and clean ears
  • Monitor pets for signs of stress, skin conditions, or health concerns
  • Ensure pets receive water and potty breaks during extended appointments
  • Follow all safe handling procedures, especially for nervous or reactive pets
  • Review prior notes and service history before beginning each appointment

Communication

  • Communicate professionally with pet parents regarding services and pickup times
  • Document detailed notes in the computer system
  • Alert leadership immediately to any health or safety concerns
  • Clearly communicate with Groomers and Pet Care staff regarding pet location and timing

Sanitation & Standards

  • Clean and sanitize bathing and drying areas daily
  • Sweep hair promptly and maintain a tidy workspace
  • Disinfect drying rooms daily
  • Properly measure and dilute all bathing products to company standards
  • Empty, rinse, and sanitize diluted product bottles daily
  • Monitor product expiration dates and manage inventory needs

Operational Excellence

  • Complete baths efficiently and on schedule
  • Adhere to pricing guidelines and prior service history
  • Maintain tools and bathing equipment
  • Follow pet identification procedures (groom cards, name bands, etc.)

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking someone who is:

  • Safety-focused and gentle in handling
  • Highly reliable and punctual
  • Organized and strong in time management
  • Detail-oriented with documentation
  • Comfortable communicating with pet parents
  • Physically capable and comfortable in a wet, fast-paced environment

You must be able to:

  • Lift up to 60 lbs
  • Stand for extended periods
  • Work weekends and holidays
  • Handle dogs of all sizes safely
  • Work around water, cleaning chemicals, and pet messes

Benefits & Perks

  • Health, Dental & Vision
  • Insurance
  • Employee Pet Care Discounts
  • Tips
  • Growth opportunities within NVA

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.