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Groomer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Please note, this is not a trainee position!** You must have previous employment as a Professional Pet Stylists or groomer. Full Time Pet Stylist Benefit s : Dental Extremely competitive pay Employee ...

Be Seen First

Please note, this is not a trainee position!** You must have previous employment as a Professional Pet Stylists or groomer. Full Time Pet Stylist Benefit s : Dental Extremely competitive pay Employee ...

Lead Pet Groomer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $40/hr

Lead Groomers may earn extra pay by training Grooming Technicians, receiving 30% of the trainees' commissions once certified. (Specific criteria must be met) * Tips from customers are ALL yours to ...

Lead Groomers may earn extra pay by training Grooming Technicians, receiving 30% of the trainees' commissions once certified. (Specific criteria must be met) * Tips from customers are ALL yours to ...

Lead Pet Groomer

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$22.50 - $40/hr

Lead Groomers may earn extra pay by training Grooming Technicians, receiving 30% of the trainees' commissions once certified. (Specific criteria must be met) * Tips from customers are ALL yours to ...

May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience ...

May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco, or previous experience ...

Groomer

Houma, LA · On-site

May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader Education/Experience: * Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco ...

Groomer

Houma, LA · On-site

May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader Education/Experience: * Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco ...

Groomer

Bend, OR · On-site

May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader Education/Experience: * Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco ...

Groomer

Bend, OR · On-site

May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon Leader Education/Experience: * Successful completion of the Pet Stylist Apprentice program with Petco ...

Showing results 21-40

Groomer Trainee information

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$9

$29

$40

How much do groomer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for groomer 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 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Groomer jobs?

The most popular types of Groomer jobs are:

What states have the most Groomer Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Groomer Trainee jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Groomer Trainee jobs are:

Infographic showing various Groomer Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,079 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Pet Bather / Groomer in Training - Cary

Pet Paradise

Apex, NC • On-site

$13.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Pet Paradise is looking for an individual with a passion for pets to join our team as a Pet Bather for our four-legged friends.

Starting Rate: $13.50/hour ($0.50 increase 6 months from hire date, additional $0.50 increase on annual anniversary date)

We are seeking an individual who would love to grow their career and become a groomer through our grooming academy. As a groomer trainee youwill be eligible for entry into our grooming academy with a scholarship to become an in-house groomer.

PERKS AND BENEFITS:

  • Opportunity for ADVANCEMENT! You will be eligible to apply for:
    • Unleashed Leadership Academy where you can train for that next step in management with opportunities across the Southeast!
    • Grooming Academy to become a Groomer!
    • STRIVE scholarship programs to become a Veterinary Assistant, Technician or Practice Manager
    • Canine Training Program! Learn to become a dog trainer! (We are currently expanding this service across many of our locations)
  • Complimentary Pet Day Camp - Bring your dog with you to work!
  • 30 Days of Complimentary Pet Boarding (non-holidays)
  • Eligible for TIPS!
  • On-demand pay with DailyPay
  • Discounted Veterinary Care and Grooming Services (per location)
  • Dog/Cat Adoption Assistance
  • Fitness Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off (both full-time and part-time status)
  • 401(k) Savings Plan with Company Match
  • Health, Dental and Vision Insurance (full-time status)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with added mental health benefit, available to all employees

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF A PET BATHER INCLUDE:

  • Assisting the grooming department with baths prior to scheduled grooms
  • Being responsible for providing "go-home" baths as requested by clients or management
  • May be tasked with performing nail trims, brushing teeth, and cleaning ears in a safe manner as trained
  • Properly securing and reassuring the pets to ensure optimal safety and comfort
  • Responsible for keeping bathing stations clean and having tools cleaned and ready for next use
  • Asking for assistance immediately if a pet demonstrates unusual stress
  • Performing other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS TO BE A PET BATHER:

  • Ability to handle a variety of animals safely and comfortably; prior animal handling experience highly preferred
  • Must have the physical strength, mobility, and stamina to lift or move heavy pets or objects from time to time
  • Ability to calmly handle and bathe pets that may be scared or show hesitation
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, and attention to detail
  • Flexibility to resort schedule needs including days, night, weekends, holidays, and peak times

WHAT IT IS LIKE TO WORK HERE

WE ARE PET PEOPLE! At Pet Paradise, team members ensure that our furry friends get extra loving care and focused attention while playing and staying with us in a safe and entertaining environment. Dog boarding is just the start of what we do! The relationship you build with pets and their parents makes going to work fun and rewarding and the benefits we offer are top notch! We offer career development with our Unleashed Leadership Academy where you can train for that next step in management with opportunities across the Southeast. Or you can expand your skills in pet care in other company-paid training programs. As a team member, you are eligible to apply for our Grooming Academy to become a groomer, or canine training roles as we expand this service across our many locations. If you have a pet of your own, they can enjoy complimentary Pet Day Camp, Boarding and discounts on grooming and veterinary care at all our locations and clinics. Working with pets is not always easy, but we love what we do, and we care about giving you the tools to grow and succeed.

ABOUT PET PARADISE

Pet Paradise's full-service pet care destination is dedicated to giving pet parents access to all the premium care they need to give their furry family member the happiest, healthiest, longest life possible. The Pet Paradise brand has grown to offer resort-style pet day camp and care, professional pet grooming, low-stress and high-quality veterinary care, and of course, overnight boarding that feels like home, all under one roof. Located in nine states with more than 60 locations in operation or under development, Pet Paradise continues to expand in the United States.

WE ARE A DRUG-FREE, SMOKE-FREE, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. Company Policy, Federal and State Laws Forbid Discrimination Because of Age, Color, Race, Religion, Sex, Disability, Sexual Orientation or National Origin. The characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.