Lead Groomer

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.