Dog Bather / Groomer Apprentice
Start the Next Step in Your Grooming Career
Doggy Barber is seeking an experienced Dog Bather who is ready to take the next step toward becoming a professional groomer. This position is ideal for someone who has worked in a grooming salon environment and already understands the fundamentals of bathing, drying, handling dogs, and maintaining a fast-paced workflow.
As a moderate-volume, privately owned salon, we focus on quality, safety, and teamwork. Our groomers typically work with 5 to 6 dogs per day and are supported by bathers who assist with washing, drying, and preparing groom dogs while also completing bath and nail trim appointments.
For candidates who demonstrate the skills, reliability, and professionalism we expect, this position offers a structured pathway into our groomer apprenticeship program and the opportunity to build a long-term career in pet grooming.
Career Path
Phase 1: Bather Evaluation & Training (Approximately 2 to 4 Weeks)
During this period, you'll learn our salon's procedures and demonstrate your ability to:
- Safely handle dogs of varying sizes and temperaments
- Bathe and dry dogs to our standards
- Perform nail trims confidently and safely
- Maintain an efficient workflow
- Work collaboratively with groomers and support staff
- Deliver a positive experience for both pets and clients
Candidates who successfully complete this phase and consistently meet Company standards may advance into the apprenticeship program.
Phase 2: Groomer Apprenticeship (Approximately 8 to 16 Weeks)
Under the guidance of experienced groomers, apprentices will continue developing their skills while learning:
- Clipper and scissor techniques
- Breed patterns and styling
- Finishing work and quality control
- Time management and scheduling
- Customer communication and service expectations
Successful apprentices may then be promoted into a Groomer position.
Compensation
- Hourly pay during training and apprenticeship
- Established clientele with generous tipping habits
- Credit card tips are pooled and distributed equitably among eligible support staff
- Cash tips go directly to the employee who earned them
- Bather tips average approximately $4 to $7 per hour, not including cash tips
- Clear advancement opportunities and continued professional development
Experience
Preferred:
- Previous experience working as a dog bather in a professional grooming salon.
- Experience with bathing, force drying, brushing, nail trimming, and safely handling dogs in a salon setting.
Also Considered:
We understand that not everyone follows the same path into grooming. Candidates without salon bathing experience may still be considered if they have substantial animal handling experience and a genuine desire to pursue a career in professional grooming. Examples include:
- Veterinary assistants
- Veterinary technicians
- Daycare or boarding attendants
- Kennel technicians
- Animal shelter staff or volunteers
- Pet trainers or training assistants
- Individuals with other professional experience working hands-on with dogs
The ideal candidate is dependable, coachable, comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, and excited about building a long-term career in the grooming industry.
Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Flexible schedule
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tools provided
Application Question(s):
- Typical shifts begin at 9:00 AM and finish between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. Scheduled days off may vary based on business needs.
Do you have any scheduling restrictions or regular commitments that would prevent you from working within these days and hours? If yes, please describe your availability and any limitations below.
Work Location: In person
