Why Join PetSmart

PetSmart does Anything for Pets, and it starts with our passionate team. As a Pet Groomer Trainee in Knightdale, NC, you'll join a supportive environment where every associate creates meaningful experiences for pets and their families. We empower you with industry-leading training through our Grooming Academy, career growth opportunities, and a culture of belonging and recognition.

Role Overview

The Pet Groomer Trainee (Pet Stylist in Training) role is your entry into professional pet grooming. After completing PetSmart’s Grooming Academy, you'll work under supervision of expert stylists, learning best-in-class techniques while delivering exceptional salon services. This position emphasizes pet safety, customer satisfaction, store cleanliness, and sales growth in a fast-paced retail setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform full grooming services like baths, brushes, nail trims, teeth brushing, and sanitary care per PetSmart standards.
• Engage pet parents to recommend wellness solutions and upsell services/merchandise.
• Handle salon operations including greetings, reservations, check-ins/outs, and reminder calls.
• Maintain impeccable salon hygiene and respond to pet health issues immediately.
• Contribute to sales targets and assist other departments as needed.

Experience & Skills

Prior grooming experience is preferred but not required—complete our technical exam and Academy training to qualify. You need strong communication, organizational skills, composure under pressure, and physical ability to lift 50+ lbs in a wet, noisy environment with pet hair. Flexibility for evenings, weekends, and holidays is essential, plus computer proficiency for client records.

Benefits

Enjoy paid weekly wages, health & wellness benefits, 401k with company match, PTO for full-time roles, associate discounts, tuition assistance, and clear career pathing. Grow with PetSmart while making a difference for pets every day.