Groom Tech in Training, Petsense

Overall Job Summary This position is responsible for completing the training course provided by Petsense, “Paragon,” in preparation for a career in grooming and/or bathing. Paragon is a virtual distant learning program where students are guided through two levels of a training program (Level 1 5‑8 weeks, Level 2 10 weeks) designed to educate students on the fundamentals in bathing and grooming, while also providing the necessary basic skills in safety, pet first aid and CPR, pet handling skills, dog anatomy and dog physiology. The program combines hands‑on practice, book work, online exams, video instruction, and submission of photos for grading. Completion of Level 1 and Level 2 in the required timelines earns a complete set of grooming tools. Store tools will be provided for use during training. Essential Duties and Responsibilities (Min 5%) Min 5% Follow and demonstrate all Petsense by Tractor Supply Mission and Values Maintain regular and predictable attendance Work scheduled shifts and have the ability to work varied hours, days, nights, weekends and overtime as dictated by business needs Work scheduled shifts for the duration of the 15‑week training program (Level 1 PT or FT and Level 2 required FT) Perform a combination of daily duties throughout the training program, including: Complete Level 1 training in five weeks: Nail trimming and ear plucking Heavy‑coated bath and brush Curly‑coat bath and brush Natural foot trimming Conduct a minimum of 10 hands‑on practice sessions in each training category Submit photos of experience by required deadline Complete 40 breed‑specific bath dogs and submit tracking journal by the required deadline Assist in generating business by calling existing and new customers, scheduling appointments, following up with calls and reminders, and verifying vaccinations Promote a safe and productive work environment for all team members, customers, and vendors Greet customers and pets and thoroughly complete 7‑point Check‑in Ensure the safety and well‑being of animals by inspecting for parasites, disease or injury and reporting findings to pet owners Sanitize and maintain grooming tools and equipment to eliminate injury and spread of disease Maintain a safe and sanitary work area to reduce risk to human and animal clients Maintain records of all pet clients, including services provided and vaccination records Operate a computer as needed Support recovery of store, if needed Required Qualifications Experience: Must be comfortable working with dogs and cats. Ability to demonstrate patience and compassion for animals. Tools will be provided while enrolled in Paragon. Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Preferred Knowledge, Skills or Abilities Operate and use all grooming tools and equipment including bathing tubs, brushes, combs, scissors, clippers, dryers, and bathing products such as perfumed shampoo and soaps Communicate effectively with associates and customers Display compassion with animals and treat them accordingly Exhibit attention to detail Read, write and count to accurately complete all documentation Problem solving skills Basic computer skills Strong interpersonal skills and ability to resolve issues ethically and with minimal conflict Working Conditions Indoor environment with moderate noise Exposure to sharp grooming instruments, perfumed shampoos and soaps, pets, and pet waste Exposure to wet conditions, particularly when bathing dogs Exposure to cats and dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments Work shifts vary but generally are no less than 4 hours and may exceed 8 hours Promote a safe and productive work environment for team members and customers and adhere to company safety training and guidelines Indoor floors and outdoor lots are generally hard surfaces (concrete, asphalt, etc.) Physical Requirements Move and transfer live animals, equipment, and merchandise weighing up to 50 pounds Lift and carry pets generally weighing up to 75 pounds; ability to lift and carry pets weighing over 100 pounds with assistance Push and pull merchandise up to 2,000 pounds with proper material handling equipment (e.g., pallet jack, dolly or U‑boat) Walk, stand and maintain a stationary position while grooming animals for a full shift Frequently move around the salon to groom and bathe animals, clean, and maintain the salon for a full shift Safely access all areas of the store including the selling floor, stock area, register area and the full salon with bathing area Utilize grooming instruments including shears and dryers Occasionally lift or reach overhead Stand, twist, bend, kneel, crouch, stoop and squat frequently to position oneself to groom and bath animals, clean shelves, stock merchandise and equipment as business needs dictate Operate store equipment such as computer, cash register, and other store equipment Read, write and count accurately to complete all documentation Utilize strong written and verbal communication skills to communicate effectively with team members and customers Handle and be in contact with live animals Successfully complete all training and certifications to care for live animals Successfully complete all required training Benefits Medical, dental, and vision coverage Company‑paid life and disability insurance Paid parental leave Tuition reimbursement Family planning resources such as adoption and surrogacy assistance Eligibility for TSC Benefits for part‑time new hires averaging at least 15 hours per week during a 90‑day lookback period #J-18808-Ljbffr Petsense by Tractor Supply