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Kennel Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pet Pros

Professional Groomer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$20 - $31/hr

Ensure accuracy of release forms, kennel cards, and customer instructions * Monitor pets for stress ... Associate's degree preferred Skills and Abilities * Proficiency in a variety of grooming techniques ...

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Kennel Associate information

What is a kennel associate?

Kennel Associates are animal care professionals responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals in kennels, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or boarding facilities. Their duties include feeding, cleaning enclosures, exercising animals, and monitoring their health and behavior. Kennel Associates also assist with basic grooming, record keeping, and sometimes help veterinarians or technicians during treatments. They play a vital role in ensuring animals are safe, comfortable, and healthy during their stay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kennel associate?

To thrive as a Kennel Associate, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical stamina, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, cleaning supplies, and sometimes pet care management software is commonly required. Attention to detail, patience, and strong communication with both pets and their owners are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure animal safety, cleanliness, and a positive experience for both pets and clients in a kennel environment.

What are some common challenges faced by kennel associates and how can they be managed effectively?

Kennel Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple animals with varying temperaments, maintaining cleanliness in a high-traffic environment, and handling emergency situations like sudden illness or injuries. Effective time management, strong communication with team members, and adhering to established safety protocols are key to overcoming these challenges. Regular training and a supportive team environment also help ensure both the animals' well-being and a positive workplace experience for associates.

What is the difference between Kennel Associate vs Pet Care Technician?

AspectKennel AssociatePet Care Technician
CertificationsNone required or basic animal handlingBasic animal care, possibly pet first aid
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, pet boarding facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Job DutiesCleaning, feeding, supervising animals in kennelsAdministering medications, assisting vets, monitoring health

While both roles involve caring for animals, Kennel Associates primarily focus on cleaning, feeding, and supervising animals in kennels or shelters. Pet Care Technicians often work in veterinary settings, providing more advanced care like administering medications and assisting veterinarians. The roles share some basic animal handling skills but differ in complexity and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in California?

The most popular types of Kennel jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Kennel Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Kennel Associate job openings:

Kennel Associate jobs near you

Professional Groomer

Long Beach, CA • On-site

PET PROS LLC DBA EARTHWISE PET
See more jobs at PET PROS LLC DBA EARTHWISE PETexternal

$20 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform full-service grooming, including bathing, brushing, clipping, trimming, and breed-specific styling

  • Conduct assessments of each dog's coat, skin, ears, nails, teeth, and overall condition, and recommend appropriate grooming services and products

  • Notify pet owners when services are completed and provide timely follow-up communication

Job description

Description

Pay: $20.00 - $31.00 per hour

Commission: 35-45% depending on experience

Job Title: Professional Groomer
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: Healthy Spot, Long Beach


Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled Dog Groomer. This role is responsible for delivering exceptional grooming results while ensuring the safety, comfort, and well-being of every pet. The ideal candidate is experienced, detail-oriented, and passionate about both pet care and customer service.


Key Responsibilities:

Grooming Services

  • Perform full-service grooming, including bathing, brushing, clipping, trimming, and breed-specific styling
  • Conduct thorough assessments of each dog's coat, skin, ears, nails, teeth, and overall condition
  • Recommend appropriate grooming services, add-ons, and products based on pet needs
  • Clearly communicate grooming plans, pricing, and service expectations with pet parents
  • Maintain detailed grooming notes and customer preferences for future visits
  • Notify pet owners when services are completed and provide timely follow-up communication.

Customer Service & Performance

  • Deliver exceptional customer service during all interactions
  • Communicate professionally and effectively with customers and team members
  • Meet or exceed key performance indicators (KPIs) and service goals
  • Adapt to changing priorities, including assisting walk-in customers

Pet Safety & Care

  • Ensure accuracy of release forms, kennel cards, and customer instructions
  • Monitor pets for stress, health concerns, or behavioral changes and report appropriately
  • Provide regular checks on kenneled dogs, ensuring access to water and scheduled walks
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and hazard-free salon environment

Operations & Team Support

  • Complete daily and weekly cleaning and sanitation tasks
  • Respond appropriately to any pet or staff incidents, ensuring proper care and reporting
  • Support additional salon duties as assigned by leadership

Qualifications

  • Minimum of 1 year of professional grooming experience required
  • Previous bathing experience required (or completion of internal apprenticeship program)
  • Associate's degree preferred

Skills and Abilities

  • Proficiency in a variety of grooming techniques, including clipping, trimming, brushing, and hand-stripping
  • Knowledge of grooming tools and equipment, including clippers, shears, combs, and specialty tools
  • Familiarity with dog breeds and American Kennel Club (AKC) grooming standards
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong attention to detail and time management skills
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain professionalism in all situations

Work Environment

  • Fast-paced grooming salon environment
  • Regular exposure to dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments
  • Requires standing, bending, and handling animals throughout the workday

This position is ideal for a groomer who is passionate about delivering high-quality care, building relationships with pet parents, and contributing to a positive and professional salon environment

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

Experience:

  • Pet grooming: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Requirements

Qualifications

  • Minimum of 1 year of professional grooming experience required
  • Previous bathing experience required (or completion of internal apprenticeship program)
  • Associate's degree preferred

Skills and Abilities

  • Proficiency in a variety of grooming techniques, including clipping, trimming, brushing, and hand-stripping
  • Knowledge of grooming tools and equipment, including clippers, shears, combs, and specialty tools
  • Familiarity with dog breeds and American Kennel Club (AKC) grooming standards
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
  • Strong attention to detail and time management skills
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain professionalism in all situations

Apply