Groom Tech in Training, Petsense

Join to apply for the Groom Tech in Training role at Petsense by Tractor Supply

This position is responsible for enrolling & completing the training course Level 1 provided by Petsense, “Paragon,” in preparation for a career in grooming and/or bathing. Paragon is a virtual distance‑learning program that guides students through a 15‑week training program focused on bathing and grooming fundamentals, safety skills, pet first aid and CPR, pet handling, dog anatomy and physiology. The program combines hands‑on practice, book work, online exams, educational videos, and photo submissions for grading.

• Maintain regular and predictable attendance.
• Work scheduled shifts and have the ability to work varied hours, days, nights, weekends and overtime as dictated by business needs.
• Take the initiative to support selling initiatives (TEAM):
  • Thank the Customer
  • Engage with the customer and/or pet
  • Advise products or services
  • Make it Memorable
• Groom Technicians in Training are required to learn & perform a combination of the following duties throughout their training program. Daily tasks may vary, but they should be able to perform all of the following accurately, efficiently, and safely on a regular basis and without advance notice:
  • Successfully enroll & complete the Paragon Level 1 training by the required timeline of five weeks.
  • Safe Pet Handling
  • Bathing, Drying, Brushing and Combing all coat types
  • Nail Trimming
  • Ear Cleaning
  • Preparatory Hair Trimming
  • Basic Clipper Techniques
  • Basic Finishing Techniques
  • Customer Service Skills
  • Demonstrating Professionalism
  • Equipment Handling and Maintenance
  • Ensure animal safety and well‑being; inspect for parasites, disease or injury and report findings to owners.
  • Follow safety and sanitization protocols; sanitize and maintain grooming tools and equipment to prevent injury and disease spread.
  • Assist in generating business by calling existing and new customers, scheduling appointments, following up with phone calls and reminders, and verifying vaccinations.
  • Maintain records of all pet clients, including services provided and vaccination records.
  • Operate computer as needed.
  • Assist with store recovery if needed.
  • All documentation associated with job duties must be completed accurately.
• May also be required to perform other duties as assigned.

Experience:

Must be comfortable working with dogs and cats and demonstrate patience and compassion for animals. Must provide own tools (clippers, blades, shears) or be willing to purchase required tools.

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent required. Any suitable combination of education and experience will be considered. Regardless of education level, associates must be able to read, write and count accurately.

• Operate and use all grooming tools and equipment, including bathing tubs, brushes, combs, scissors, clippers, dryers, and bathing products.
• Communicate effectively with associates and customers.
• Display compassion with animals and treat them accordingly.
• Exhibit attention to detail.
• Read, write and count accurately to complete all documentation.
• Problem‑solving skills.
• Basic computer skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to resolve issues ethically with minimal conflict.

• Favorable indoor environment with moderate noise.
• Exposure to sharp grooming instruments, perfumed shampoos and soaps, pets, and pet waste.
• Exposure to wet conditions, especially when bathing dogs.
• Exposure to cats and dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Work shifts vary, generally no less than 4 hours, may exceed 8 hours.
• Promote a safe and productive workplace for team members and customers and adhere to company safety training and guidelines.
• Indoor floors are typically hard surfaces (concrete, asphalt, etc.) with adequate lighting and temperature.

• Move and transfer live animals, equipment, and merchandise weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Stand and maintain a stationary position for up to 8 hours while grooming.
• Move frequently for 4‑8 hours per day around the salon to groom animals, clean, and maintain the salon.
• Utilize…