Lead Mobile Groomer & Technical Trainer

About the Role


Happy Tails RVA is seeking a highly skilled and leadership-oriented Lead Mobile Groomer & Technical Trainer to join our growing team. This is a unique, hybrid role designed for a professional who excels in the mobile environment and is passionate about elevating the skills of others.


Your week will be a balance of hands-on grooming and dedicated mentorship. You will spend 2-3 days per week in the field providing premium mobile grooming services and 1-2 days per week focused on training both new and existing staff on the latest industry trends, advanced techniques, and the proprietary Happy Tails RVA processes and procedures.

Key Responsibilities


Grooming & Mobile Operations (2-3 Days Per Week)

• High-Level Grooming: Perform full-service grooming at an expert level, including breed-standard cuts and hand-scissoring. Must demonstrate low-stress handling for a variety of breeds and temperaments to ensure a safe and calm environment for every pet.
• Client Relationship Management: Act as a senior brand ambassador for our Richmond-area clients, ensuring high-end, personalized service at their doorstep.
• Daily Van Maintenance: Responsible for the thorough cleaning, inventory management, and basic upkeep of the mobile grooming unit during active grooming shifts to ensure a pristine environment for every client.

Training & Technical Leadership (1-2 Days Per Week)

• Mobile Unit Excellence: Assist with the maintenance and operational readiness of our state-of-the-art mobile units.
• Skills Development: Conduct formal training sessions for the grooming team on modern trends, advanced coat treatments, and specialized styling.
• Onboarding & Process: Lead the technical orientation for all new hires, ensuring they are fully proficient in Happy Tails RVA's specific safety protocols and operational procedures.
• Standardization & Quality: Perform "ride-alongs" and quality checks to ensure consistent, top-tier grooming standards across the entire fleet.
• Process Documentation: Assist ownership in updating and refining internal "SOPs" (Standard Operating Procedures) for grooming techniques and van maintenance.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional grooming experience, with a proven track record as an experienced mobile groomer. Experience withWag N Tails Sprinter vans and/or Gryphon Dodge Ram Promaster vans.
• Technical Mastery: Proficiency in advanced hand-scissoring, breed-specific patterns, and deep knowledge of current industry trends. Industry recognized pet grooming certification(s) highly preferred.
• Education: High school degree or degree equivalent required.
• Instructional Ability: The ability to break down complex grooming techniques and mobile-specific workflows into clear, teachable steps.
• Driving: Valid driver's license and clean record; comfort operating and maneuvering large mobile units.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills; ability to provide constructive feedback and foster a positive, professional team culture.

What We Offer

• Balanced Schedule: A structured hybrid work week that blends high-energy grooming with rewarding mentorship.
• Competitive Compensation:
  • 50% commission for all grooming services.
  • Competitive hourly rate for all dedicated mentorship and administration activities.
• Retirement Benefits: 401k available for qualified employees.
• Healthcare Benefits: Healthcare stipend reimbursement available for qualified employees.
• Growth Opportunity: Play a pivotal role in the expansion of a successful, locally-owned mobile business that values excellence.
• Premium Environment: Work with the best equipment in the industry within a supportive, milestone-celebrating team culture.