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Groomer Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Bourbonnais, IL · On-site

$15.08 - $25.85/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

College Station, TX · On-site

$13.07 - $18.57/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Memphis, TN · On-site

$13.09 - $18.34/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site

$13.07 - $18.07/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Nashua, NH · On-site

$13.26 - $23.26/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$15.33 - $28.59/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Redding, CA · On-site

$17.09 - $29.85/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Euless, TX · On-site

$13.07 - $18.57/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Houston, TX · On-site

$13.07 - $18.57/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Watchung, NJ · On-site

$16.32 - $24.32/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

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Showing results 1-20

Groomer Trainee information

See salary details

$9

$29

$40

How much do groomer trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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 are groomer trainees?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Groomer Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Groomer Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Groomer Trainee job openings:
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:
Infographic showing various Groomer Trainee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,079 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Pet Groomer Trainee

Pet Groomer Trainee

PetSmart

Glen Burnie, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


PetSmart rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 1,083 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

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Job Description  

PetSmart does Anything for Pets - JOIN OUR TEAM! 

Pet Groomer Trainee

About Life at PetSmart 

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. 

Benefits that benefit you 

  • Paid Weekly
  • Health & Wellness Benefits*
  • 401k Plan with company match
  • Paid Time off for full-time associates
  • Associate discounts 
  • Tuition Assistance 
  • Career pathing 
  • Development opportunities 

Job Summary

PetSmart's Pet Stylist in Training is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and best in class salon services. This position will receive training and guidance from our experienced Professional Styling teams, learning from the best in the industry on proper grooming techniques. This position is also responsible for upholding the company's vision, mission, values, and strategy. This role also shares responsibility of store cleanliness, recommending of solutions for pet parents, and pet safety standards.  

Pet Stylist in Training role is obtained once the associate has successfully completed the PetSmart Grooming Academy.  

Essential Responsibilities

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following and may vary depending on store characteristics and needs: 

  • While under supervision, performs full menu of bath, brush and grooming services and standalone services, such as nail trims, teeth brushing, and sanitary services in accordance with PetSmart's bathing standards and procedures. 
  • Develop and display safe technical skills that will meet or exceed the company's minimum expectations. 
  • Recommends additional health and wellness solutions with Pet Parents based on pet's needs. 
  • Responsible for the pet parent experience and outcomes conducted in person, over the phone and at the sales register.  
  • Greets pet parents, answers their questions, and assists with making reservations in the salon. 
  • Conducts salon appointment reminder calls, maintains client records and consults with pet parents on services offered.  
  • Performs check-in and check-out procedures for grooming appointments, including applicable paperwork and rebooking.  
  • Promotes opportunities to grow salon sales to help achieve sales targets and productivity, and any other relevant salon metrics. 
  • Recommends, informs, and sells merchandise and services. 
  • Maintains the highest level of cleanliness, sanitation, and humane conditions for all pets in the grooming area, by performing maintenance throughout the day including end of day cleaning in accordance with the maintenance checklist. 
  • Responsible for taking immediate action when a sick/injured pet is identified in the store; transport to the vet as needed.  
  • Assists and works in other departments as required. Other duties may be assigned. 
  • Participates in our culture of Belonging and Recognition.  
  • Follows all Company Policies and Procedures. 

Qualifications

  • Successful completion of PetSmart's Salon Academy training and safety certification program.  
  • Prior grooming experience preferred; may be asked to complete a technical exam.  
  • Proficiency in computer applications. 
  • Ability to react under pressure and maintain composure.  
  • Flexibility in schedule, able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail and safety measures.  
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Essential physical demands and work environment

  • Associate required to stand, walk, climb a ladder, and use hands to handle, feel, hold, write, etc. The associate frequently is required to reach with hands and arms: stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
  • Associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally team lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. 
  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, as well as a wet environment with an abundance of pet hair. The noise level is moderate in the work environment; however, associates may be exposed to high levels of noise at times. Exposure to live animals and their handling is common. 

Do what you love 

Join us for a chance to make a meaningful impact every day. Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing the smile on a pet parent's face after a fresh groom-you'll create moments that matter. At PetSmart, we cherish diversity and the unique perspectives of our 50,000 associates, all united by a passion for pets.  

We're delighted you're interested in joining our pack and helping us in our commitment to doing Anything for Pets, and the people who love them. We're excited to hear your story and learn more about you! Apply Now!  

PetSmart is an Equal Opportunity Employer  

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We offer reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout our application process, upon request and as required by law.        

This listing is not an indication that the position is currently open or available. We are continually looking to build a strong network of talented candidates to join our organization and are always accepting applications. Feel free to contact your local PetSmart store to check on which roles they are actively hiring for.

This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work associates/leaders assigned to this job perform. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. You will be provided with a copy of a job description for the actual position you are hired into. Exact base rate of pay will be based on relevant experience level, training, skills or knowledge and store location. Pay for this position is the greater of the base pay rate or groom pay (a designated percentage of the associate's grooming sales based on the job code) and can vary by pay period. In no instance will PetSmart pay less than the local minimum wage. This position is also eligible for benefits, as described at https://benefits.petsmart.com/us/.

Applicants must be over the age of 18 (except in Montana or where otherwise required by local or state law)   

For applicants in our Waterloo, San Francisco, or Los Angeles locations: Pursuant to the Waterloo and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, as well as the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with the law   

*In accordance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), part-time associates who average at least 30 hours per week (or 130 hours per month) during a designated measurement period may be eligible for medical benefits.

Pay Details 
$15.10 - 27.88
Pay Rate Type 
Hourly
Apply Now

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About PetSmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. With 50,000+ associates nationwide, we foster a culture grounded in integrity, teamwork, and inclusion - where your voice is heard, your efforts are valued and your career can thrive. Together, we make a difference for pets, their people and each other.

Industry

Retail and legal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US