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Pet Modeling Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pet Pros

Grooming Instructor

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Model safe dog handling techniques and customer experience excellence * Perform regular quality ... Respond appropriately to any pet or employee incidents, ensuring proper care and reporting ...

Independence Pet Group

Director, Finance

Chicago, IL · On-site

Established in 2021, Independence Pet Holdings is a corporate holding company that manages a ... Designs and develops models for purposes of forecasting, allocating data, and steering decision ...

Amcor

Procurement Analyst PET

Deerfield, IL

Ensure PET price sheets are up to date with up to date with Index related information. * Share up ... Six Sigma, Should Cost Modeling, Change Management, Project Management * Languages: English ...

Amcor plc

Procurement Analyst PET

Deerfield, IL · On-site

Ensure PET price sheets are up to date with up to date with Index related information. * Share up ... Six Sigma, Should Cost Modeling, Change Management, Project Management * Languages: English ...

Embrace Pet Insurance

Senior Data Product Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $172K/yr

Established in 2021, Independence Pet Holdings is a corporate holding company that manages a ... Strong understanding of data management concepts - including data modeling, quality, governance ...

Independence Pet Group

Senior Financial Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$88K - $109K/yr

Established in 2021, Independence Pet Holdings is a corporate holding company that manages a ... Strong analytical and financial modeling capabilities with the ability to interpret complex data ...

Independence Pet Group

Program Manager, Senior

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

Established in 2021, Independence Pet Holdings is a corporate holding company that manages a ... and operating model that strengthens operational efficiency, scalability, and the customer ...

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All JobsPet Modeling JobsPet Modeling Jobs in Chicago, IL

Pet Modeling information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$57.2K

How much do pet modeling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for pet modeling in Chicago, IL is $56,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,100.00 and $56,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is pet modeling?

Pet modeling involves training and presenting animals, typically dogs or cats, for participation in advertising campaigns, television shows, movies, or print media. Pet models are usually selected for their appearance, behavior, and ability to follow commands. Owners often work with talent agencies that specialize in animals to find opportunities for their pets. The process may require training, professional grooming, and attending auditions, and successful pet models can gain exposure and earn income through their work.

What are pet modeling jobs?

Pet modeling jobs are available for animals that are properly socialized and can adapt to the demands of changing environments. Many pets start their careers in advertising or as an actor in a commercial. There are also a variety of jobs working in the pet modeling industry. You can find positions for professionals who train and manage pet models, as well as support staff who care for and groom animals between photo shoots or filming. Other employment opportunities include agent roles, where your primary responsibilities are to represent clients or pet agencies who serve models and their owners. You may also work as a photographer to assist individuals with building a portfolio that will help get work for a dog, cat, or another animal.

What are some common challenges pet models and their handlers face during photo shoots?

One of the main challenges in pet modeling is ensuring that animals remain calm and responsive in unfamiliar environments, especially with bright lights, cameras, and new people around. Handlers must be patient and use positive reinforcement to guide pets through different poses and actions. Collaboration between the photographer, trainer, and pet owner is crucial to capture the desired shots while prioritizing the animal's comfort and safety. Flexibility and quick problem-solving are key, as animals may not always cooperate as planned.

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

To thrive as a Pet Model, animals need basic obedience, a calm temperament, and the ability to follow commands, while handlers or owners may benefit from experience in animal training. Familiarity with photography or film set environments and sometimes animal talent agency registration are typical requirements. Patience, adaptability, and strong communication between pet and handler are crucial soft skills for managing unpredictable settings. These skills ensure that pets perform reliably and safely during shoots, leading to successful campaigns and repeat bookings.

What is the difference between Pet Modeling vs Pet Grooming?

AspectPet ModelingPet Grooming
Required CredentialsPortfolio, modeling experience, sometimes photography skillsGrooming certifications, grooming licenses
Work EnvironmentPhoto shoots, fashion shows, advertisingSalons, pet stores, mobile grooming vans
Employer & Industry UsageFashion, advertising, entertainmentPet care, grooming salons, veterinary clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentPet Modeling vs Pet Grooming

Pet Modeling involves showcasing pets in photoshoots, advertisements, and fashion shows, requiring a portfolio and sometimes photography skills. Pet Grooming focuses on cleaning, trimming, and caring for pets' appearance, requiring grooming certifications and licenses. While both roles involve working with animals, Pet Modeling is more about visual presentation for media, whereas Pet Grooming emphasizes pet health and hygiene in grooming salons or mobile units.

How much do pet models get paid?

Pet models typically earn between $50 and $300 per hour, depending on factors such as experience, the type of project, and the pet's training. Rates can vary widely for commercial, print, or advertising work, and some models may receive additional compensation for usage rights or royalties.

How to get your pet into pet modeling?

To get your pet into pet modeling, ensure they are well-trained, have a good temperament, and are in good health. Create a professional portfolio with high-quality photos, and submit applications to pet modeling agencies or participate in casting calls and photo shoots. Building a social media presence can also help attract industry attention.
More about Pet Modeling jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Pet Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Pet Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Pet Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Pet Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pet Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Pet Modeling jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Pet Modeling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pet Modeling job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 14% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,335 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Grooming Instructor

Pet Pros

Wheaton, IL • On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Full job description
Job Title: Grooming Instructor
Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: Field Leadership; VP of Services; Director of Grooming
Pay: $31 - $33 per hour + bonus eligibility
Revised: July 2026
Job Summary
We are seeking an accomplished and motivated Grooming Instructor to supervise and instruct a team of grooming apprentices. This role combines advanced technical instruction with direct supervision, quality standards ownership, and hands-on grooming in a salon environment.
The ideal candidate is a master-level groomer who can teach, an experienced supervisor who can hold a standard, and a leader who is invested in building the next generation of Groombar talent.
Key Responsibilities
Apprentice Instruction and Technical Training
  • Provide technical skills training for a group of grooming apprentices
  • Ensure apprentices are able to groom at Groombar standards and achieve key performance indicator (KPI) goals upon graduation from the program
  • Conduct student grooming and written examinations
  • Partner with Field Leadership and the Director of Grooming to train new Lead Groomers in the job

Apprentice Supervision
  • Act as immediate supervisor for students while in the apprentice program
  • Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with organizational policies and applicable laws, in consultation with Field Leadership and Human Resources
  • Recruit and select candidates for the apprentice program
  • Manage performance; plan, assign, and direct work; appraise performance; reward and discipline employees; address complaints and resolve problems
  • Ensure student responsibilities, authorities, and accountabilities are defined and understood

Interim Salon Supervision
  • Act as interim supervisor for bathers and groomers in the absence of a Lead Groomer or Salon Manager
  • Provide coaching, lead work direction, technical skills building, and quality supervision
  • Train and support skill development for bathers, and maintain grooming and bathing quality standards across the team
  • Model safe dog handling techniques and customer experience excellence
  • Perform regular quality checks on groomers and bathers
  • Participate in performance meetings and support team performance improvement
  • As needed, manage performance, including rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints, and resolving problems
  • Ensure employee responsibilities, authorities, and accountabilities are defined and understood
  • Address and resolve customer concerns, including making service corrections when needed

Grooming Services and Client Experience
  • Provide comprehensive grooming services in a salon environment
  • Greet customers and their dogs by name and communicate a best-estimate pick-up time
  • Perform a needs assessment for each assigned dog, evaluating the condition of eyes, ears, nails, teeth, coat, and skin
  • Suggest de-matting services, a short haircut, additional services, and products to customers based on that assessment, as appropriate
  • Describe benefits and options for all suggested add-ons, and communicate knowledgeably about all of Groombar's products and services, including nutrition, training, and dental cleaning
  • Obtain detailed instructions from customers regarding the haircut desired, take comprehensive notes, and record them in each customer's account for future reference
  • Clearly communicate fees associated with all services
  • Notify owners when service has been completed and ensure hourly contact occurs thereafter until the pet is picked up
  • Execute the GOTHEART strategy during every customer check-in, deliver exceptional customer service, and ensure a positive salon experience

Talent Selection
  • Partner with Human Resources to participate in the selection process for bather and groomer applicants

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

Salon Safety and Additional Duties
  • 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, safe, and have access to water
  • Check dogs hourly for any signs of stress
  • Communicate any health or safety concerns to management and pet owners
  • Ensure the salon environment is safe, clean, and free of hazards, and that equipment and tools are operating as intended
  • Respond appropriately to personnel or dog injuries, ensuring both employees and dogs receive prompt and appropriate medical care, and injuries are reported
  • Perform other salon-related duties as assigned by Field Leadership, as needed

Salon Maintenance and Compliance
  • Maintain a clean, safe, and organized grooming environment
  • Ensure completion of daily and weekly cleaning and sanitation lists
  • Respond appropriately to any pet or employee incidents, ensuring proper care and reporting

Compensation and Benefits
  • Bonus structure surrounding program performance and apprentice graduation outcomes
  • Ownership of a signature program with direct visibility to the VP of Services and Director of Grooming
  • Exclusive Professional Development Opportunity:

Work alongside a team of multi-award-winning international competition groomers with over 20 years of experience in advanced grooming techniques, salon leadership, and professional instruction, and help shape the standard every Groombar groomer is trained to.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
  • Fast-paced grooming salon environment
  • Frequent interaction with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and temperaments
  • Approximate percent per 8-hour workday:
  • Constant visual stimulation, including close vision (up to 100%)
  • Constant standing (up to 100%)
  • Constant contact with water, shampoos and other bathing products, and hair (up to 100%)
  • Frequent squatting, bending, reaching, pulling, and twisting
  • Frequent lifting of dogs up to 30 pounds without assistance
  • Occasional walking around building

This is more than a grooming role; it is the opportunity to build the bench, set the standard, and leave a mark on the entire organization.
Benefits
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Paid training
  • Vision insurance

Requirements
Qualifications
  • Positions supervised (direct reports): Grooming Apprentices; may provide lead work direction to bathers and groomers
  • Certified Master Groomer or equivalent preferred
  • Three years of previous experience as a dog groomer in a professional dog grooming salon setting desired
  • One year of previous experience providing staff supervision in a grooming salon strongly preferred

Skills and Abilities
  • Strong teaching, supervisory, interpersonal, and written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrated skill with a variety of traditional and creative grooming techniques, including trimming, clipping, cutting, stripping, hand-stripping, brushing, and coloring or dyeing
  • Able to successfully complete Groombar's skills assessment test, as administered by the VP of Services or Director of Grooming
  • Knowledgeable of a wide variety of grooming tools, including brushes, combs, scissors, grooming clippers, rakes, mat knives, and grooming stripping knives
  • Knowledgeable of a wide variety of dog breeds and dog breed standards
  • Friendly, approachable, cooperative, flexible, and able to shift focus as needed
  • Able to professionally and effectively interact and communicate, verbally and in writing, with staff, customers, vendors, and the public from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds
  • Able to work independently and as part of a team, take initiative, prioritize and accurately perform multiple tasks, and efficiently meet deadlines and changing priorities
  • Able to consistently demonstrate good judgment and decision-making skills

Apply