Manager Earthwise Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Dog Groomer to provide high-quality grooming services and to offer leadership, coaching, and technical direction to a team of groomers and bathers. This role combines hands-on grooming expertise with team development, quality control, and customer service excellence.

The ideal candidate is a skilled groomer with strong leadership abilities, a passion for pet care, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service and results.

Key Responsibilities

Grooming Services & Client Experience

• Perform full-service grooming, including bathing, brushing, clipping, trimming, and breed-specific styling
• Conduct thorough assessments of each dog's coat, skin, ears, nails, and overall condition
• Recommend appropriate services, add-ons, and products based on pet needs
• Clearly communicate grooming plans, pricing, and service expectations to pet parents
• Maintain detailed records of grooming instructions and customer preferences
• Notify pet owners when services are completed and provide ongoing communication as needed
• Deliver exceptional customer service and ensure a positive salon experience

Leadership & Team Development

• Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching, and technical guidance to groomers and bathers
• Train and support skill development for bathers, and maintain grooming and bathing quality standards across the team
• Perform regular quality checks on groomers and bathers
• Participate in bi-weekly performance meetings and support team performance improvement
• Address and resolve customer concerns, including making service corrections when needed

Operations & Performance

• Maintain strong customer service standards and meet or exceed established goals
• Adapt to changing priorities, including assisting with walk-in grooming services.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with customers and team members

Pet Safety & Care

• Ensure accuracy of release forms, kennel cards, and service documentation
• Monitor pets for stress, health concerns, or behavioral changes and report as needed
• Ensure kenneled pets are comfortable, have access to water, and are walked regularly
• Communicate any health or safety concerns to management and pet owners

Salon Maintenance & Compliance

• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized grooming environment.
• Complete daily and weekly cleaning and sanitation tasks
• Respond appropriately to any pet or employee incidents, ensuring proper care and reporting
• Support additional salon duties as assigned by management

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of professional dog grooming experience required
• Minimum of 2 years of professional bathing experience required
• Associate's degree preferred

Skills and Abilities

• Strong leadership, coaching, and team development skills
• Proficiency in a variety of grooming techniques, including clipping, trimming, hand-stripping, and breed-standard styling
• Knowledge of grooming tools and equipment
• Familiarity with dog breeds and grooming standards
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Ability to complete a grooming skills assessment

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: Up to $20.00 per hour + up to 45% commission.
• Strong earning potential with a competitive commission structure
• Exclusive Professional Development Opportunity:

Participate in bi-weekly, hands-on mentorship and leadership development sessions with a multi-award-winning international competition groomer. With over 20 years of experience in advanced grooming techniques, salon leadership, and professional instruction, this mentorship offers a rare opportunity to elevate your craft, refine advanced skills, and grow as a leader in the grooming industry.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced grooming salon environment
• Frequent interaction with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments
• Requires standing, bending, and lifting throughout the workday

This is more than just a grooming role; it's an opportunity to advance your career, maximize your earning potential, and learn from one of the best in the industry.