Lead Dog Groomer

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

Dogtopia of Purcellville is expanding into full-service grooming and seeking a Lead Groomer who takes pride in craftsmanship, safety, and professionalism. This role is for an experienced groomer who builds lasting client relationships and wants to lead our premier grooming program from the ground up, with the demand already in place.

Why This Role Is Different

• Built-in demand: many of our daycare families are ready to move their grooming in-house, and we receive multiple grooming inquiries every week
• Your book can begin filling before your first day
• Dedicated bather support, so you can focus on cutting and finishing
• Front desk team handles booking, check-in, payments, and reminders
• Appointment-based grooming, with no chaotic walk-ins
• Temperament-screened, well-handled dogs, all current on required vaccinations
• Dedicated grooming tub, table, drying crates, and in-crate dryers
• Award-winning Dogtopia location serving Loudoun County
• Clean, organized, low-drama workplace

What You’ll Do

• Perform full grooms, breed-specific and pet cuts, hand scissoring, and finishing work across a range of breeds and coat types
• Coordinate with bathers on bathing, drying, nails, and ears, typically completing 6–8 grooms per day with bather support
• Prioritize dog safety, comfort, and humane handling above speed, adjusting or stopping a groom when needed
• Consult with owners at drop-off and pickup, rebook clients, and keep grooming notes for consistent results
• Help build the grooming service menu, procedures, and standards as we expand from bath and spa services to full grooming
• Keep the grooming area clean, sanitized, and organized, and maintain equipment in good working order
• Work respectfully and collaboratively with bathers, front desk, and canine care staff

Compensation & Benefits

• W-2 position with workers’ compensation coverage
• 50% commission on grooming services
• 100% of your tips
• Earning potential of $300–$400+ per day plus tips
• 60-Day Guaranteed Earnings: $900 per week minimum while you build your book. If commission exceeds $900 in a given week, you are paid commission
• Predictable scheduling: [days/hours]
• Free daycare for your dog while you work

Hiring Process

1. A confidential conversation about your experience and goals
2. A review of your grooming portfolio. Please bring photos of your work or share your social media page
3. A tour of our facility and grooming space, and time to meet our team

Required

• 3+ years of professional grooming experience, including full grooms and haircuts
• Proficiency with a range of breeds and coat types, including hand scissoring and breed-specific cuts
• A proven track record of building and retaining repeat clientele
• Strong dog handling and safety awareness
• Excellent client communication skills
• Reliable, professional, and team-oriented, treating coworkers with the same care you give the dogs
• Must absolutely LOVE dogs

Preferred

• 5+ years of professional grooming experience
• An established client following
• Experience working with a bather
• Salon leadership or program-building experience
• NDGAA, IPG, or AKC grooming or safety certifications
• Commitment to continuing education and professional development

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift and restrain dogs up to 50 lbs, with assistance for larger dogs
• Able to stand for extended periods
• Repetitive use of clippers, shears, and dryers
• Comfortable working in a warm, humid environment with noise and exposure to dander, water, and grooming products