Groom Tech in Training, Petsense

This position is responsible for completing the training course provided by Petsense, “Paragon,” in preparation for a career in grooming and/or bathing.

Paragon is a virtual distant learning program where students are guided through two levels of a training program (Level 1 5‑8 weeks, Level 2 10 weeks) designed to educate students on the fundamentals in bathing and grooming while also providing the necessary basic skills in safety, pet first aid and CPR, pet handling skills, dog anatomy and dog physiology. This is achieved through a combination of hands‑on practice, book work, online exams, watching videos and submitting photos of practical application for grading.

Successful on‑time completion of the Paragon Level 1 and Level 2 will earn a complete set of grooming tools. Store tools will be provided to use in the store while completing training.

• Follow and demonstrate all Petsense by Tractor Supply Mission and Values
• 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.
• Work scheduled shifts for the duration of the 15 week training program (Level 1 PT or FT and Level 2 required FT)
• Paragon students are required to perform a combination of the following duties throughout their day. Although daily tasks may vary day to day, our business and staffing model makes it essential every Paragon student be able to perform all of the following duties accurately, efficiently, and safely on a regular basis and without advance notice:
• Successfully complete the following training for Level 1 by the required timeline of five weeks:
• Nail trimming and ear plucking
• Heavy coated bath and brush
• Curly coat bath and brush
• Natural foot trimming
• Conduct a minimum of 10 hands‑on practice sessions in each training category
• Submit photos of experience by required deadline
• Complete 40 breed‑specific bath dogs and submit tracking journal by the required deadline
• Assist in generating business by calling existing and new customers, scheduling appointments, follow‑up phone calls and reminders to customers, and verifying vaccinations
• Promote a safe and productive work environment for all Team Members, customers, and vendors
• Greet customers and pets and thoroughly complete 7‑point Check‑in
• Ensure the safety and well‑being of animals
• Inspect animals for external signs of parasites, disease or injury and report findings to pet owners
• Sanitizes and maintains upkeep of all grooming tools and equipment to eliminate injury and spread of diseases to other pet clients
• Maintain a safe and sanitary work area to reduce risk to human and animal clients
• Maintain records of all pet clients to include services provided and vaccination records
• Operate computer as needed
• Recovery of store, if needed

Experience:

Must be comfortable working with dogs and cats. Ability to demonstrate patience and compassion for animals. Tools will be provided while enrolled in Paragon.

Education:

High school diploma or equivalent required

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

• Working environment is favorable, generally inside with moderate noise.
• Exposure to sharp grooming instruments, perfumed shampoos and soaps, pets, and pet waste.
• Exposure to wet conditions, particularly when bathing dogs.
• Exposure to cats and dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Work shifts vary from one store to another, but generally are no less than 4 hours and may exceed 8 hours.
• Promote a safe and productive work environment for Team Members and customers and adhere to Company safety training and guidelines.
• Indoor floors…