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Trainee Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

Pet Groomer Trainee

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15.08 - $25.85/hr

Pet Groomer Trainee About Life at PetSmart At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families ...

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Trainee information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$25.3K

$43.1K

$62.9K

How much do trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee in Springfield, IL is $43,143.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32,700.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee vs Apprentice?

AspectTraineeApprentice
CredentialsOften no formal certification required, may have basic qualificationsTypically requires a specific apprenticeship certification or program
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, training-focused roles in various industriesHands-on training in skilled trades or technical fields
Employer UsageUsed across diverse sectors for onboarding new employeesCommon in trades like construction, plumbing, electrical work

In summary, a Trainee is usually an entry-level individual gaining initial experience, while an Apprentice is engaged in a structured training program often leading to certification in a skilled trade. Both roles focus on learning, but apprenticeships are more formalized and trade-specific.

What kind of support and mentorship can a Trainee expect during their initial months on the job?

As a Trainee, you can typically expect to be paired with a mentor or supervisor who will guide you through your onboarding process, provide regular feedback, and help you understand company procedures. Training programs often include structured learning sessions, shadowing experienced team members, and opportunities to ask questions. The work environment is usually collaborative, with an emphasis on learning and gradual exposure to more complex tasks. Open communication is encouraged to ensure you feel supported as you build your skills and confidence.

What Are Trainee Jobs?

Trainee jobs are typically entry-level positions where people learn the duties and skills necessary to work independently. As a trainee, you work under a more experienced worker or a supervisor whose job it is to provide new employees with professional development. Many large companies, in industries as varied as retail and accounting, have specialized trainee programs. At an accounting or architecture firm, trainees are usually workers who are not yet licensed to perform the entirety of their job’s responsibilities, but nonetheless have the qualifications to begin work while they study for licensing exams.

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

To thrive as a Trainee, you need a basic educational background relevant to the industry, a willingness to learn, and strong problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with industry-specific software or tools, such as Microsoft Office Suite or proprietary systems, is often beneficial. Strong communication, adaptability, and time management skills help Trainees stand out by enabling them to absorb information and integrate smoothly into teams. These skills are crucial for building a solid foundation, ensuring rapid growth, and successfully transitioning to more advanced roles within the organization.

What is a trainee?

A trainee is an individual who is undergoing training for a specific job or profession, typically as part of an entry-level position or apprenticeship. Trainees often receive instruction and practical experience under the supervision of more experienced staff, with the goal of acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary for a permanent role. The training period can vary in length depending on the industry and employer, but it is designed to prepare individuals for full-time employment in their chosen field.
What job categories do people searching Trainee jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Trainee jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Trainee job openings:
Pet Groomer Trainee

Pet Groomer Trainee

PetSmart

Springfield, IL

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


PetSmart rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

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Job Description  

PetSmart does Anything for Pets - JOIN OUR TEAM! 

Pet Groomer Trainee

About Life at PetSmart 

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. 

Benefits that benefit you 

  • Paid Weekly
  • Health & Wellness Benefits*
  • 401k Plan with company match
  • Paid Time off for full-time associates
  • Associate discounts 
  • Tuition Assistance 
  • Career pathing 
  • Development opportunities 

Job Summary

PetSmart's Pet Stylist in Training is responsible for engaging with pet parents and their pets while providing positive experiences and best in class salon services. This position will receive training and guidance from our experienced Professional Styling teams, learning from the best in the industry on proper grooming techniques. This position is also responsible for upholding the company's vision, mission, values, and strategy. This role also shares responsibility of store cleanliness, recommending of solutions for pet parents, and pet safety standards.  

Pet Stylist in Training role is obtained once the associate has successfully completed the PetSmart Grooming Academy.  

Essential Responsibilities

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following and may vary depending on store characteristics and needs: 

  • While under supervision, performs full menu of bath, brush and grooming services and standalone services, such as nail trims, teeth brushing, and sanitary services in accordance with PetSmart's bathing standards and procedures. 
  • Develop and display safe technical skills that will meet or exceed the company's minimum expectations. 
  • Recommends additional health and wellness solutions with Pet Parents based on pet's needs. 
  • Responsible for the pet parent experience and outcomes conducted in person, over the phone and at the sales register.  
  • Greets pet parents, answers their questions, and assists with making reservations in the salon. 
  • Conducts salon appointment reminder calls, maintains client records and consults with pet parents on services offered.  
  • Performs check-in and check-out procedures for grooming appointments, including applicable paperwork and rebooking.  
  • Promotes opportunities to grow salon sales to help achieve sales targets and productivity, and any other relevant salon metrics. 
  • Recommends, informs, and sells merchandise and services. 
  • Maintains the highest level of cleanliness, sanitation, and humane conditions for all pets in the grooming area, by performing maintenance throughout the day including end of day cleaning in accordance with the maintenance checklist. 
  • Responsible for taking immediate action when a sick/injured pet is identified in the store; transport to the vet as needed.  
  • Assists and works in other departments as required. Other duties may be assigned. 
  • Participates in our culture of Belonging and Recognition.  
  • Follows all Company Policies and Procedures. 

Qualifications

  • Successful completion of PetSmart's Salon Academy training and safety certification program.  
  • Prior grooming experience preferred; may be asked to complete a technical exam.  
  • Proficiency in computer applications. 
  • Ability to react under pressure and maintain composure.  
  • Flexibility in schedule, able to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail and safety measures.  
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. 

Essential physical demands and work environment

  • Associate required to stand, walk, climb a ladder, and use hands to handle, feel, hold, write, etc. The associate frequently is required to reach with hands and arms: stoop, kneel, crouch, talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
  • Associate must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally team lift and/or move more than 100 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include depth perception. 
  • While performing the duties of this job, the associate is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, as well as a wet environment with an abundance of pet hair. The noise level is moderate in the work environment; however, associates may be exposed to high levels of noise at times. Exposure to live animals and their handling is common. 

Do what you love 

Join us for a chance to make a meaningful impact every day. Whether it's helping a customer choose their first fish, celebrating a pet's birthday, or seeing the smile on a pet parent's face after a fresh groom-you'll create moments that matter. At PetSmart, we cherish diversity and the unique perspectives of our 50,000 associates, all united by a passion for pets.  

We're delighted you're interested in joining our pack and helping us in our commitment to doing Anything for Pets, and the people who love them. We're excited to hear your story and learn more about you! Apply Now!  

PetSmart is an Equal Opportunity Employer  

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics. We offer reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout our application process, upon request and as required by law.        

This listing is not an indication that the position is currently open or available. We are continually looking to build a strong network of talented candidates to join our organization and are always accepting applications. Feel free to contact your local PetSmart store to check on which roles they are actively hiring for.

This job summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work associates/leaders assigned to this job perform. It is not intended to include all duties and responsibilities. You will be provided with a copy of a job description for the actual position you are hired into. Exact base rate of pay will be based on relevant experience level, training, skills or knowledge and store location. Pay for this position is the greater of the base pay rate or groom pay (a designated percentage of the associate's grooming sales based on the job code) and can vary by pay period. In no instance will PetSmart pay less than the local minimum wage. This position is also eligible for benefits, as described at https://benefits.petsmart.com/us/.

Applicants must be over the age of 18 (except in Montana or where otherwise required by local or state law)   

For applicants in our Waterloo, San Francisco, or Los Angeles locations: Pursuant to the Waterloo and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, as well as the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring, we will consider for employment, qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in a manner consistent with the law   

*In accordance with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), part-time associates who average at least 30 hours per week (or 130 hours per month) during a designated measurement period may be eligible for medical benefits.

Pay Details 
$15.08 - 25.85
Pay Rate Type 
Hourly
Apply Now

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About PetSmart

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. With 50,000+ associates nationwide, we foster a culture grounded in integrity, teamwork, and inclusion - where your voice is heard, your efforts are valued and your career can thrive. Together, we make a difference for pets, their people and each other.

Industry

Retail and legal services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US