Pet Stylist - San Diego

As a Pet Stylist at Barkbus, your primary role is to provide luxury one-on-one grooming care to dogs, which includes bathing, cutting, shaving, and trimming. You'll be working in our specially designed vans, focusing on quality grooming experiences while adhering to a manageable daily schedule of 3-6 dogs. Additionally, you'll benefit from our support teams handling scheduling and maintenance to let you concentrate on your craft.

To become a Pet Stylist at Barkbus, you need at least 1+ years of professional grooming experience, a valid driver's license, and a clean driving record. Comfort interacting with pet parents and the ability to lift dogs up to 50lbs (75lbs+ preferred) are also essential. Knowledge of using smartphones is important, as you'll be provided with the tools to facilitate communication.

Pet Stylists at Barkbus enjoy competitive hourly pay ranging from $28 to $38, supplemented by tips and bonuses of up to $1,000 per month. In addition, the role comes with a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, pet insurance, and a 401k plan. You'll also receive 24 paid days off annually and opportunities for professional development through IVG certifications.

At Barkbus, Pet Stylists can choose between three different shift types that promote stability, allowing you to work the same days every month. This structured schedule helps maintain a balance between work and your personal life while ensuring a manageable number of grooming appointments each day.

The interview process for a Pet Stylist role at Barkbus starts with submitting your resume, which is followed by an initial phone call to get acquainted. You'll then have a 30-minute virtual meeting with a Grooming Manager to discuss your background in-depth, leading to an on-site 'Pawdition' for a technical grooming assessment. Successful candidates will receive an offer letter after a background check.

When answering this question, highlight specific grooming techniques and styles you have experience with, such as clippings, breed-specific cuts, or specialty grooming methods. Share details about how you tailor your approach based on the dog's breed and temperament, showcasing your expertise and passion for grooming.

To answer this, provide examples of techniques you use to calm anxious dogs, like gentle handling, talking softly, and allowing them to acclimatize to the grooming environment. Discuss your understanding of dog behavior and how it informs your grooming strategy to ensure the safety and comfort of each pup.

Think of a specific instance where you successfully resolved a situation with an upset pet parent. Outline how you listened to their concerns, reassured them about their pet's care, and what steps you took to rectify the situation. This will show your interpersonal skills and commitment to excellent customer service.

In your response, emphasize the importance of ensuring a safe, stress-free experience for both the pet and the owner. You might mention grooming techniques, maintaining hygiene, or customizing services to fit the individual needs of each pet as key elements you prioritize in your grooming practice.

Discuss any grooming associations you’re a member of, seminars or workshops you’ve attended, or reliable online resources you use to stay informed about the latest trends in the industry. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and professional development in your role as a Pet Stylist.

Mention the unique aspects of Barkbus that attract you, such as their emphasis on quality grooming, supportive work environment, or commitment to pet health. Show enthusiasm for contributing to their mission and values while expressing how your skills align with what Barkbus is looking for in a Pet Stylist.

Share specific examples of what you enjoy most about grooming, such as seeing a dog transform after a grooming session or developing relationships with pet parents. This helps interviewers understand your motivations and passion for the profession.

Explain your grooming style by discussing how you adapt to each dog’s needs and preferences. Include factors like breed-specific grooming and your attention to detail, which reflects your versatility and creativity in grooming.

In your response, outline your experience handling various dog breeds and how you adapt your grooming techniques to accommodate each breed’s unique characteristics and individual temperament. Giving examples of how you’ve successfully worked with both energetic and calm dogs can enhance your answer.

Discuss specific safety protocols you follow, such as using calm handling techniques, securing the pet properly, and being aware of potential hazards. Share your commitment to providing a safe environment, emphasizing that the wellbeing of the pets you groom is always your top priority.