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Grooming Assistant Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Junior Groomer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Coralville, IA · On-site

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Coralville, IA

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

Petco

Junior Groomer

Dubuque, IA

In addition to bathing and drying services, the Junior Pet Stylist will assist in the grooming process, prioritizing the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pets in our care and delivering optimal ...

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All JobsGrooming JobsGrooming Assistant JobsGrooming Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Grooming Assistant information

See Iowa salary details

$8

$18

$53

How much do grooming assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for grooming assistant in Iowa is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $19.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a grooming assistant?

A grooming assistant helps with various administrative and clerical tasks related to grooming services for pet animals. As a grooming assistant, your job duties include preparing workstations, washing and prepping animals for grooming, cleaning kennels, stocking inventory, and providing assistance to dog owners and other pet owners. The qualifications for this career include a high school diploma and, preferably, some experience or training, which you can gain through an apprenticeship or grooming school. You should be comfortable around all sorts of animals and have excellent attention to detail and customer service skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a grooming assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Grooming Assistant, you need foundational knowledge of animal care, basic grooming techniques, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with grooming tools (such as clippers, brushes, and dryers), pet restraint systems, and safety protocols is important. Patience, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills help you work effectively with animals and communicate with pet owners. These skills are crucial to ensure animal safety, customer satisfaction, and efficient operation in a pet grooming environment.

What are some common challenges faced by grooming assistants and how can they be managed?

Grooming Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling anxious or uncooperative animals, managing time effectively during busy periods, and maintaining a clean, safe workspace. Building patience and strong animal-handling skills are essential for minimizing stress for both pets and staff. Effective communication with groomers and pet owners also helps ensure a smooth workflow and clear expectations. Over time, experience and support from the grooming team can help new assistants become more confident and efficient in their role.

What is the difference between Grooming Assistant vs Pet Groomer?

AspectGrooming AssistantPet Groomer
CredentialsBasic animal handling, grooming support skillsCertification or licensing often required, specialized grooming training
Work EnvironmentAssist grooming professionals in salons or pet storesPerform grooming services directly on pets in salons or mobile units
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in pet grooming salons, pet stores, veterinary clinicsPrimarily employed in grooming salons, pet spas, or mobile grooming services

The main difference is that a Grooming Assistant supports and assists pet groomers, focusing on preparation and handling, while a Pet Groomer performs the actual grooming services. Grooming Assistants typically require less certification and work under supervision, whereas Pet Groomers often need specialized training and certification to perform grooming independently.

More about Grooming Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Grooming jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Grooming jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Grooming Assistant jobs in Iowa?

For Grooming Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Grooming Assistant jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Grooming Assistant jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Grooming Assistant jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Grooming Assistant job openings:

Grooming Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Grooming Assistant job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,879 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Groomer / Grooming Student - Merle Hay

Pet Supplies Plus

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Pet Supplies Plus rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 389 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

585th of 739 rated retailers

Job description

Love pets? We’ll help you turn that passion into a career!

Does your dog have a closet full of clothes? Is your cat so cool he needs to wear shades? If you’re passionate about pets and enjoy providing exceptional service to animals and their owners, we’d love to have you join our team!

We are looking for Experienced Groomers and Grooming Students to join our team. No professional grooming experience? No problem! We will pay for your grooming education and training so you can learn the skills needed to become a professional groomer.

As a Groomer or Grooming Student at Pet Supplies Plus, you will:

  • Provide exceptional, neighborly service to pets and their owners
  • Brush, bathe, condition, groom and style pets according to owner instructions and/or breed standards
  • Ensure the health, wellness and safety of every pet in your care
  • Build lasting relationships with pet parents by understanding their needs
  • Recommend products and services that help keep pets healthy and happy
  • Help pets look and feel their best while creating a positive grooming experience
  • Participate in community outreach to attract new customers
  • Maintain a clean, safe and inviting grooming environment
  • Assist store team members during grooming downtime
  • Complete required Safety, Bather/Brusher and Grooming Academy training

* Experienced Groomer

Have grooming experience? We'd love to put your skills to work!

Experienced Groomers should have at least 1 year of grooming experience along with formal training certification and/or experience working under an established groomer.

Certified Groomers are eligible for a $500 sign-on bonus upon hire and completion of the 90-day probationary period!

* Grooming Student — No Grooming Experience Required!

Want to become a professional groomer but don't have experience? We will invest in you!

Our paid grooming education and training program allows you to learn the skills needed to build a rewarding career in pet grooming. You don't need to already know how to groom—we'll provide the education and training.

We’re looking for candidates who are passionate about animals, enjoy working with people and pets, and are eager to learn.

PAWsome Candidates Will:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED
  • Have at least 1 year of retail or customer service experience
  • No grooming experience required for Grooming Students
  • Be willing to complete our paid grooming education and training program
  • Be able to move or lift merchandise, equipment or pets weighing up to 50 pounds
  • Be able to stand, bend and stoop for extended periods
  • Be flexible to work evenings, weekends and holidays
  • Be at least 18 years of age
  • Successfully pass required drug, background and validated selection testing

Full-Time Benefits

Full-time Team Members have access to a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and holidays
  • Company-paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Ongoing training and career development

Whether you're an experienced groomer or have always wanted to become one, this is your opportunity to turn your love of animals into a career—with the education and training provided!

Apply today and start your PAWsome career!

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