Pet Bather - Irvine, CA

As a Pet Bather at Barkbus, your key responsibilities include providing luxurious, one-on-one bathing and grooming services for dogs, ensuring a stress-free experience for every pup. You'll work independently in our state-of-the-art grooming vans, focus on safety and quality during each appointment, and manage a schedule of 3 to 6 dogs per day. Your role also involves performing trimming services, handling customer interactions, and adjusting appointments based on the needs of special pups, all while being supported by our dedicated concierge team.

To qualify for the Pet Bather position at Barkbus, you should have at least 1 year of professional bathing experience, and experience with face, feet, and sanitary trims is preferred. A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is essential, along with comfort in interacting with pet parents. You should also be able to lift and bathe dogs weighing up to 50lbs (preferably 100lbs). Familiarity with smartphones is required as well, though we provide the technology you'll need to perform your job effectively.

Pet Bathers at Barkbus can expect a competitive hourly pay rate of $25 to $32, plus tips and monthly bonuses ranging from $400 to $800. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 30 hours per week enjoy a range of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement savings plan, pet insurance, and generous paid time off policies. Bathers also receive opportunities for professional development, with up to three International Professional Groomer certifications fully funded by the company.

The work culture for Pet Bathers at Barkbus is supportive and upbeat, emphasizing positivity, safety, and professional growth. The company promotes a collaborative environment where team members uplift one another, share creative ideas, and have fun while working. The management ensures manageable schedules and provides significant support through an in-house concierge and fleet teams, allowing you to focus entirely on delivering outstanding grooming services while enjoying your time at work.

The interview process for the Pet Bather position at Barkbus begins by submitting your resume, followed by a phone call to get to know each other. If selected, you will have a 30-minute virtual meeting with a hiring manager where you can ask questions about the role. This is followed by an on-site Pawdition, showcasing your technical skills. Candidates who progress through this phase will receive an offer letter and undergo a background check, ensuring that everyone on the team shares Barkbus's values.

When answering this question, share specific examples highlighting your professional experience, the types of breeds you've worked with, and any particular grooming techniques you excel in. It's important to convey your passion for pet care and your commitment to providing a positive experience for both dogs and their owners.

Demonstrate your understanding of dog behavior in your response. Talk about strategies you employ to calm anxious dogs, such as using a gentle approach, providing reassurance, and taking extra time to gain their trust. It's crucial to show that you prioritize the comfort of the pets in your care while executing grooming tasks.

Discuss specific safety protocols and techniques you follow to ensure the well-being of all dogs during grooming. Emphasize your commitment to observing the dog's body language, using appropriate tools, and maintaining a safe working environment that minimizes stress for the animals.

Share your time management strategies, such as prioritizing tasks and creating a structured schedule that allows you to provide quality care while ensuring efficiency. Mention how Barkbus’s manageable workload (3-6 dogs daily) allows you to focus your efforts on providing an exceptional experience for each pet.

This is your chance to express your enthusiasm for Barkbus' mission and values. Highlight aspects of the company culture, like its focus on the health and wellness of dogs as well as the positive team dynamics. Make sure to convey your passion for grooming in an environment that values quality over quantity.

Addressing an injury situation requires a calm and composed approach. Explain how you would assess the dog's condition, notify the pet parent promptly, and contact a veterinarian if necessary. It's key to show your dedication to ensuring the safety and health of the dogs in your care.

Emphasize your open-mindedness and willingness to listen when handling customer feedback. Share an example if you have one, detailing how you’ve effectively resolved issues in the past by engaging with the concerned pet parent and addressing their worries to ensure satisfaction.

Talk about the tools you’ve used in the past, such as shampoos, clippers, and nail trimmers, and explain why it’s crucial to select the right tools based on each dog's breed and grooming needs. Illustrate your understanding of how using high-quality equipment can significantly impact the grooming experience.

Discuss the importance of building rapport and trust with new clients. Describe how you would spend time getting to know both the dog and the pet parent, carefully explaining the grooming process, and addressing any concerns they may have to ensure a smooth experience.

Share your aspirations in the grooming industry, whether you aim to specialize in specific breeds, pursue advanced certifications, or even move into management positions. Showing that you have a growth mindset will demonstrate your commitment to professional development and align with Barkbus’s commitment to fostering progress.