Dog Bather / Wellness Assistant
Barkology is seeking a compassionate, dependable, and detail-oriented Dog Bather / Wellness Assistant to join our growing team. This role is responsible for providing exceptional bathing, drying, brushing, and preparation services while ensuring every dog receives a safe, stress-free, and positive spa experience.
The Dog Bather serves as an important member of our Grooming and Wellness Team by supporting groomers, maintaining a clean and sanitary work environment, and assisting with wellness services including PEMF therapy, red light therapy, and other wellness offerings under established Barkology protocols.
The ideal candidate is passionate about dogs, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and pet care.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesPet Bathing & Preparation
- Bathe dogs of all breeds, sizes, coat types, and temperaments.
- Brush, comb, de-shed, and de-mat coats according to Barkology standards.
- Properly shampoo, condition, rinse, and dry pets using appropriate products and techniques.
- Clean ears, trim nails, express anal glands (if trained and authorized), and perform basic hygiene services.
- Prepare dogs for groomers by ensuring coats are clean, dry, and properly brushed.
- Monitor pets throughout the bathing and drying process to ensure safety and comfort.
- Recognize and report skin conditions, parasites, injuries, or health concerns to management.
Wellness Support
- Assist with wellness service preparation and room turnover.
- Help set up and monitor wellness sessions under company protocols.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of wellness bays and equipment.
- Educate pet parents on available wellness services and memberships.
- Support wellness team initiatives designed to improve pet health and recovery.
Customer Service
- Greet clients and pets in a friendly, professional manner.
- Review service requests and communicate pet needs accurately.
- Provide updates regarding pet behavior, coat condition, and wellness observations.
- Assist in promoting memberships, packages, and wellness services.
- Create positive experiences that encourage repeat visits and referrals.
Facility Maintenance
- Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of bathing areas, kennels, tubs, dryers, grooming stations, and wellness spaces.
- Follow all Barkology cleaning and disinfecting procedures.
- Launder towels and maintain adequate supply inventory.
- Ensure all tools and equipment are clean, operational, and safely stored.
- Assist with opening and closing procedures.
Team Support
- Assist groomers with handling, lifting, and preparation of pets.
- Maintain a positive, team-oriented attitude.
- Participate in training programs and continuing education.
- Follow all company safety procedures and pet handling standards.
QualificationsRequired
- Genuine passion for dogs and animal wellness.
- Ability to safely handle dogs of various sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness.
- Excellent communication and customer service skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Reliable transportation and punctual attendance.
Preferred
- Previous experience as a dog bather, kennel technician, veterinary assistant, or pet care professional.
- Experience working in grooming salons, pet resorts, veterinary clinics, or animal care facilities.
- Knowledge of dog breeds, coat types, and basic grooming practices.
- Interest in holistic pet wellness and recovery therapies.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequent bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting.
- Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently.
- Ability to assist with larger dogs exceeding 50 pounds using team-lift procedures.
- Ability to work around water, pet hair, cleaning products, and grooming equipment.
- Comfortable handling energetic, nervous, or senior pets.
Barkology Core Values
Every team member is expected to:
- Put pet safety first.
- Deliver exceptional client experiences.
- Treat every dog as if they were their own.
- Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and professionalism.
- Support a culture of wellness, compassion, and continuous improvement.
Benefits
- Competitive hourly compensation
- Paid training and ongoing education
- Employee discounts on grooming and wellness services
- Career growth opportunities
- Paid time off eligibility
- Positive and supportive team culture
- Opportunity to work in an innovative pet wellness environment
Pay: $14.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid training
- Tools provided
- Uniform allowance
Work Location: In person
