Lead Groomer

Description Full job description Job Title: Lead Dog Groomer Job Type: Full-Time, Non-Exempt Reports To: Store Manager Pay: Up to $31 per hour + up to 45% commission and bonuses Revised: July 2026 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 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 Leadership and 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 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 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 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 Store Manager and 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 Pay: Up to $31 per hour + up to 45% commission and bonuses Strong earning potential with a competitive commission structure Bonus structure surrounding salon performance and growth Exclusive Professional Development Opportunity: Participate in bi‑weekly, hands‑on mentorship and leadership development sessions with a team of multi‑award‑winning international competition groomers. 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 is an opportunity to advance your career, maximize your earning potential, and learn from some of the industry's best . Benefits 401(k) Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Paid training Vision insurance I understand the description of this job and essential functions as given above. I also understand that all duties of this job are not described above, and that I will perform those indicated and other related duties as directed by my supervisor and management. Requirements Qualifications Positions supervised (direct reports): Provides lead work direction to Groomers and Bathers 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 #J-18808-Ljbffr