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Grooming Apprentice Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Sushi Apprentice

Scottsdale, AZ · 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 ...

GROUP HOMES 2

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$17.75 - $21.75/hr

... training, and apprenticeship. The Little Foundation makes hiring decisions based solely on ... DUTIES • ADLs include bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, transferring, cooking, etc. Number ...

GROUP HOMES 2

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... training, and apprenticeship. The Little Foundation makes hiring decisions based solely on ... ADLs include bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, transferring, cooking, etc. Number of Openings ...

Grooming Apprentice information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do grooming apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for grooming apprentice in Phoenix, AZ is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grooming apprentice?

Grooming apprentices are individuals who are training to become professional pet groomers. They typically work under the supervision of experienced groomers to learn skills such as bathing, brushing, trimming, and styling pets, primarily dogs and sometimes cats. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience in animal handling, grooming techniques, and maintaining a safe, clean environment. This role is an entry-level position and often serves as a stepping stone to becoming a certified pet groomer.

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

To thrive as a Grooming Apprentice, you need basic animal handling skills, knowledge of pet care, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools such as clippers, scissors, brushes, and basic safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, patience, and strong communication make someone stand out when working with animals and their owners. These skills are crucial for ensuring pet safety, delivering quality grooming services, and building customer trust in a service-oriented environment.

What are some common challenges faced by grooming apprentices, and how can they be overcome?

Grooming Apprentices often encounter challenges such as handling nervous or difficult pets, learning to use specialized grooming tools safely, and developing efficient grooming techniques under supervision. To overcome these hurdles, apprentices are encouraged to observe experienced groomers closely, ask questions, and practice patience and gentle handling with animals. Regular feedback from mentors and hands-on training help build confidence and skill, making it easier to progress in the role.

What is the difference between Grooming Apprentice vs Grooming Technician?

AspectGrooming ApprenticeGrooming Technician
CertificationsBasic grooming courses, on-the-job trainingAdvanced grooming certifications, state licenses
Work EnvironmentLearning environment, supervised grooming salonsIndependent or team-based grooming salons, pet stores
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting groomers, learning grooming techniquesPerforming grooming services independently or under supervision

The Grooming Apprentice is typically in training, assisting experienced groomers and gaining skills, while the Grooming Technician is more experienced, performing grooming services independently. Apprentices focus on learning, whereas Technicians handle grooming tasks with greater autonomy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Grooming jobs in Phoenix, AZ?

The most popular types of Grooming jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:

What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Grooming Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Grooming Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Grooming Apprentice job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,481 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Sushi Apprentice

Kuza

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • Employee discounts
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development

Department: Back of House (BOH)                                                   Reports To: Sushi Chef > Executive Chef
Location: KUZA Scottsdale (Tatum & Cactus)                                Pay Rate: $17/hour

Job Summary

The Sushi Apprentice supports KUZA’s Japanese-American culinary program by learning all the basics of fish handling, and working your way up to executing high-quality sushi, sashimi, rolls, and cold-kitchen dishes with precision, speed, and consistency. This role requires basic knife skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to maintaining KUZA’s standards for freshness, presentation, and flavor.

Key Responsibilities

  • Learn how to safely handle, clean and cut seafood, then moving up to learning sushi, sashimi, nigiri, maki rolls, poke, and cold-kitchen menu items according to KUZA recipes and specs.
  • Maintain accurate knife skills and learn all the skills for sushi rice handling, seasoning, and storage.
  • Learn and Ensure all fish, produce, and ingredients are labeled, dated, rotated, and stored properly.
  • Maintain workstation cleanliness, including cutting boards, knives, containers, and refrigeration areas.
  • Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures, especially temperature control for raw seafood.
  • Assist with daily prep, including slicing fish, portioning ingredients, making sauces, and preparing garnishes.
  • Communicate with the Sushi Chef and line team regarding low product levels, quality concerns, or 86’d items.
  • Support service through fast, accurate execution during high-volume periods.
Skills & Qualifications
  • 1+ year experience in a food service establishment.
  • Good knife skills 
  • Willingness to be a sponge and learn proper seafood safety, cross-contamination prevention, and temperature control.
  • Ability to follow recipes and plating guides with consistency.
  • Must have (or obtain) AZ Food Handler Card.
  • Able to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for long periods in a high-paced environment.
Work Environment & Expectations
  • Professional appearance aligned with KUZA kitchen and grooming standards.
  • Punctuality, reliability, and calm focus during busy service periods.
  • Willingness to learn KUZA’s Japanese-American fusion style and flavor profiles.
  • Positive attitude and strong teamwork ethic.