Apprentice Groomer

The Apprentice Groomer position is an interim position comprised of three phases:

• Assessment Phase: an initial 1-2 week period working with the Senior Groomer(s) to assess specific areas for training and development. This initial phase will set the expected time frame for training, the scope of training as defined by grooming skill areas, and the structure of training in terms of skill sequencing.
• Training Phase: a period of 6-12 months or more in duration in which you will work along side the Senior Groomer(s) to master the grooming skills indicated during the Assessment Phase. The Training Phase will consist of a defined critical path with sequential milestones as indicated by the Assessment Phase. The Training Phase might be in conjunction with more than one Senior Groomer in order to best develop your skill sets.
• Evaluation Phase: a phase that will run concurrently with the Training Phase and be measured against the critical milestone path. At each skill milestone, the Senior Groomer will document an evaluation of the skill mastery and the critical milestone path will be updated. Promotion to Groomer will occur when all skills have been mastered and the critical milestone path completed. It is expected that the time required for each person will be different.

Promotion to Groomer: it is expected that approximately 75% of Apprentice Groomers will be promoted to Groomer within 6-18 months of being made an Apprentice Groomer.

Key Responsibilities:

• Providing high quality grooming services
• Communicating directly with clients both before and after all services
• Communicating all issues (e.g. nicks, ticks, etc.) with clients and Shift Supervisors
• Maintaining the cleanliness of the grooming room
• Ensuring that equipment is clean and in good working order

Supplies and Equipment: you are responsible for providing all of the equipment necessary to perform your job at your sole expense (e.g. scissors, clippers, brushes, etc.). Biscuits & Bath will provide tables, dryers, cages, and shampoos.

Performance Metrics:

• The rate at which you learn how to groom
• Frequency of client communication
• Number of incidents
• Customer loyalty
• Cleanliness of grooming room

• High School diploma or GED.
• Minimum of two years bathing experience.
• Knowledge of Biscuits & Bath and a genuine interest in the well-being of dogs.
• Ability to learn and adhere to the company’s standards and procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication (both verbal and written) skills.
• Ability to juggle a variety of responsibilities, while balancing competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High degree of independent decision-making and problem-solving capability.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to withstand prolonged exposure to water and soaps
• Must be physically fit to lift dogs 50+ lbs, stand for extended periods of time and perform requirements of the job.
• Ability to work a varied schedule including days, evenings, weekends and holidays.