Dog Groomer

About this position

About Paws & Claws Total Dog

Paws & Claws Total Dog is part of Digs Dog Care, a premium dog care company offering DayPlay, Overnight Stays, Grooming, and Training across multiple locations nationwide. We're built on a simple belief: every pup deserves to feel safe, loved, and at home — and every team member plays a real role in making that happen. Our shared ownership program means employees don't just work here, they have a stake in it.

About the role

The Groomer role is part of a dedicated grooming team focused on delivering high-quality care and styling services for dogs and cats of all breeds and sizes. The position involves hands‑on grooming work including bathing, trimming, styling, and general wellness checks, carried out in a professional salon environment where animal comfort and safety are the top priority. Day‑to‑day work includes direct interaction with pet owners, coordination with teammates, and upkeep of a clean and organized grooming space. This is a role for someone who takes pride in their craft and is committed to providing a consistent, stress‑free experience for every pet that comes through the door.

Responsibilities

• Grooming Services
• Perform breed‑appropriate bathing, brushing, drying, trimming, and styling for dogs and cats
• Execute cuts based on client specifications, breed standards, or owner preferences
• Provide nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and anal gland expression as requested
• Identify and communicate any skin conditions, parasites, lumps, or health concerns observed during grooming to owners
• Client & Pet Interaction
• Greet clients professionally and gather detailed grooming instructions prior to each appointment
• Handle pets of varying temperaments, sizes, and needs with patience and care
• Communicate updates to pet owners during and after appointments, including any behavioral or health observations
• Build and maintain positive relationships with returning clients and their pets
• Facility & Safety Standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary grooming station between each appointment
• Follow proper sanitation protocols for tools, equipment, and grooming surfaces
• Adhere to safe animal handling procedures to minimize stress, prevent injury, and keep all teammates safe
• Ensure all equipment (dryers, clippers, scissors) is properly maintained and in safe working condition
• Operations & Administration
• Manage appointment scheduling and maintain accurate client records and grooming histories
• Communicate supply needs and assist with inventory management
• Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient workflow and a positive salon environment

Qualifications

Required

• 1–3 years of professional pet grooming experience in a salon, veterinary, or mobile grooming environment
• Demonstrated proficiency in grooming a variety of breeds and coat types
• Strong knowledge of safe animal handling practices
• Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift pets up to 50 lbs if needed
• Reliable, punctual, and professional demeanor

Preferred

• Certification from a recognized grooming program (e.g., National Dog Groomers Association of America, International Professional Groomers)
• Experience with cats or exotic small animals
• First aid and CPR certification for animals
• Familiarity with grooming salon management software

Lead Groomers have ~5+ years of experience and are responsible for training new Groomers and assisting with scheduling. Readiness for advancement includes:

• Consistent record of strong attendance and team engagement.
• Proven leadership and conflict‑resolution skills.
• Deep understanding of Grooming operations at Digs as well as front‑of‑house operations
• Demonstrated ability to train and mentor others effectively.
• Strong alignment with Digs’ values and commitment to continuous improvement.

What We Offer

At Digs, we take care of our pack. Dental and vision benefits kick in shortly after your start date, and at 90 days you're eligible for a 401(k) with up to 4% company match. At 6 months, medical benefits become available to full‑time teammates, and after one year you can join our DigIn Shared Ownership Program — because we believe the people who build Digs should share in its success. Many locations also offer teammates discounted DayPlay as a little extra perk.