Pet Stylist - Westwood

As a Pet Stylist at Barkbus, your main responsibility is to provide luxurious one-on-one grooming care for dogs. This includes bathing, cutting, shaving, and trimming while ensuring each dog has a stress-free experience. You will work independently in our specially designed grooming vans, and have the support of our concierge and fleet teams for scheduling and maintenance. You'll also engage with pet parents as needed, creating a positive experience for them and their furry friends.

To be considered for the Pet Stylist position at Barkbus, you should have at least 1 year of professional grooming experience and a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record. It is important to be comfortable lifting and grooming dogs up to 50 lbs (and preferably 75 lbs+). Additionally, you should feel confident interacting with customers and using smartphones, as we rely on technology to support our grooming process.

Barkbus offers an impressive benefits package for our Pet Stylists, including competitive pay, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement savings plans, and 401k options. You will enjoy 24 paid days off annually, which promotes a healthy work-life balance. Additionally, we provide tool reimbursements and opportunities for professional development, such as up to four company-paid IPG certifications, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.

When you join Barkbus as a new Pet Stylist, we have a comprehensive onboarding plan to set you up for success. This includes an initial phone call, a virtual meeting with a Grooming Manager, and an on-site technical grooming assessment called the 'Pawdition.' This process ensures you are fully prepared and supported in your new role, allowing you to embrace the Barkbus culture from day one.

Barkbus stands out from other grooming companies by prioritizing the well-being of both dogs and groomers alike. We focus on quality over quantity, allowing our Pet Stylists to manage only a few dogs per day while delivering top-notch care. Our unique mobile grooming vans provide convenience, and we take care of sales and marketing, so you can focus on your craft. With a strong emphasis on a supportive, groomer-oriented culture, we aim to make your grooming experience enjoyable and fulfilling.

When discussing your grooming process during the interview for the Pet Stylist position, be sure to highlight your techniques and how you ensure each dog has a comfortable experience. Talk about your approach to bathing, cutting, and trimming, and mention any special care you take for anxious pets.

It's important to demonstrate your understanding of how to manage anxious pets. In your answer, emphasize your patience and your methods for creating a calm environment. Share specific strategies you use to help dogs feel secure and relaxed during the grooming process.

When responding to this question, provide a specific example that showcases your grooming skills and customer service. Explain the situation, the actions you took to ensure the dog looked and felt its best, and the positive feedback received from the pet owner.

While discussing your preferred grooming tools and products, highlight your knowledge of quality vs. budget options. Mention your favorite shampoos, cutting tools, and any specialized items you believe lead to better grooming outcomes. You could also reference your experience with different products and their effectiveness.

In your answer, you can discuss the importance of continuous learning in the grooming profession. Mention any certifications you have, workshops you've attended, grooming blogs, or social media platforms you follow to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in the pet grooming industry.

This is a chance to showcase your unique grooming style and philosophy. Discuss the aspects that are important to you – such as keeping the dog's comfort in mind, your aesthetic preferences, and how you adapt your style based on different breeds and client requests.

Share specific techniques you employ to stay organized and efficient during grooming appointments. Explain how you prioritize tasks, manage your schedules for multiple dogs, and ensure that each dog receives quality care without feeling rushed.

Highlight your knowledge of safety protocols in grooming. Discuss the precautions you take to avoid accidents, such as using proper restraints, keeping necessary tools organized, and ensuring the pets are comfortable and calm throughout the process.

Discuss the importance of communication and building relationships with pet parents in your answer. Explain how you establish trust, address any concerns, and ensure a positive grooming experience, creating repeat clients and referrals.

This is your chance to express your alignment with the company’s values and culture. Share what excites you about working at Barkbus, whether it's the focus on a stress-free grooming environment, the support for groomers, or your passion for creating amazing experiences for pets.