Working at a pet store lets you combine your love for animals with a stable job.
You can apply for roles like sales associate, groomer, or pet care specialist, even with little experience.
This guide shows you how to apply, prepare, and stand out when looking for pet store jobs.
Types of Pet Store Jobs
Pet stores offer different roles depending on your skills and interests. Whether you like sales, grooming, or animal care, there’s a position that fits you.
Here are the main types of pet store jobs you can apply for.
- Sales Associate: Helps customers find products and answers questions about pets.
- Cashier: Handles payments and keeps the checkout area organized.
- Pet Care Specialist: Feeds animals, cleans enclosures, and monitors their health.
- Stock Clerk: Restocks shelves, checks inventory, and assists with deliveries.
- Groomer or Grooming Assistant: Bathes, trims, and grooms pets to keep them healthy and clean.
- Store Manager: Supervises staff, manages schedules, and ensures smooth store operations.
Skills and Qualifications
Working at a pet store requires customer service and animal care skills. You don’t need a degree, but being reliable and comfortable with animals matters.
Here are the main skills and qualifications to get hired.
- Customer Service Skills: You’ll help customers choose products and handle their questions politely.
- Animal Handling: Knowing how to care for pets safely shows responsibility and confidence.
- Communication: Clear communication with coworkers and customers keeps the store running smoothly.
- Teamwork: Most pet stores rely on collaboration to handle busy hours and animal care routines.
- Attention to Detail: Being observant helps you notice animal needs or product shortages.
- Basic Computer Knowledge: Some tasks require using POS systems or checking online orders.
Where to Find Job Openings
Finding pet store job openings is simple if you know where to look. You can apply online, visit stores in person, or use job search platforms.
Here are the best ways to find available positions.
- Company Websites: Check official pages of PetSmart, Petco, and local pet stores for open roles.
- Job Portals: Use sites like Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn to search for pet store positions.
- Local Classifieds: Look at online community boards or local ads for smaller store listings.
- In-Store Applications: Visit nearby pet stores and ask directly if they’re hiring.
- Social Media Pages: Many pet shops post openings on Facebook, Instagram, or local job groups.
How to Prepare Your Resume
Your resume is your first chance to show you’re right for the job. Keep it short, organized, and focused on your strengths to make a strong impression.
Here’s how to prepare it effectively.
- Highlight Animal Experience: Include any pet care, volunteering, or grooming experience.
- Show Customer Service Skills: Add roles where you helped customers or handled sales.
- Use Clear Formatting: Keep your resume one page with bullet points and a simple design.
- Add Certifications: Mention pet care, grooming, or first aid certificates if available.
- Tailor for Each Store: Adjust details to match the store’s job description.
- Include References: Add contact information from past supervisors or volunteer leaders.
The Application Process
The application process for pet store jobs is simple and can be done online or in person.
Most stores want basic details and proof that you’re good with customers and animals. Here’s how it usually works.
- Online Applications: Fill out forms on company websites like PetSmart or Petco.
- Walk-In Applications: Visit local stores and ask for a printed form or hand in your resume.
- Prepare Required Documents: Bring a valid ID, updated resume, and any training certificates.
- Follow Up: Call or visit the store a few days later to ask about your application status.
- Stay Professional: Be polite and enthusiastic when speaking to hiring staff.
Interview Tips
Preparing for an interview helps you make a strong first impression and show your enthusiasm for the role.
Employers want to see your love for animals and a good customer service attitude. Here are key tips to help you succeed.
- Research the Store: Learn about their products, services, and values before the interview.
- Show Enthusiasm for Animals: Talk about your experience or interest in caring for pets.
- Dress Neatly: Choose simple, clean clothing that looks professional but comfortable.
- Be Punctual: Arrive early to show reliability and respect for their time.
- Highlight Teamwork and Flexibility: Mention that you can work with others and handle different shifts.
- Ask Smart Questions: Show interest by asking about training or store operations.
Work Environment and Growth
Working at a pet store gives you a fun, hands-on job with animals and customers.
You’ll do different tasks each day and have room to grow. Here’s what to expect from the work environment and career growth.
- Team-Oriented Setting: You’ll work with other staff to handle customers, pets, and store duties.
- Varied Tasks: Each day may include stocking shelves, cleaning animal areas, or assisting customers.
- Flexible Hours: Most stores offer part-time and full-time shifts, including weekends and holidays.
- Training Opportunities: New hires often receive training in sales, animal care, or grooming.
- Career Advancement: With experience, you can move into senior roles like shift lead, supervisor, or store manager.
- Employee Benefits: Some stores offer discounts on pet products, health insurance, or paid time off.
Employee Benefits
Employees in this field often receive benefits that make their work more rewarding and secure.
These perks can vary by company but usually include financial and personal support. Here are the most common employee benefits you can expect.
- Product Discounts: Get price reductions on pet food, supplies, and accessories.
- Health Insurance: Some companies offer medical, dental, or vision coverage.
- Paid Time Off: Earn vacation days and sick leave after a specific period of employment.
- Training Programs: Access free courses or workshops to build animal care and sales skills.
- Career Growth Opportunities: Get promoted to higher positions with better pay and responsibilities.
- Employee Recognition: Receive bonuses or awards for great performance and customer service.
Salary Overview
Pay varies by location, experience, and company size. Entry-level roles are hourly; leadership and groomers can earn more through bonuses or commission.
Here are typical ranges to guide your expectations.
- Sales Associate: $11–$16/hour (≈$23k–$33k/year full-time)
- Cashier: $10–$15/hour (≈$21k–$31k/year)
- Stock/Inventory Clerk: $11–$16/hour (≈$23k–$33k/year)
- Pet Care Specialist/Animal Care: $12–$17/hour (≈$25k–$35k/year)
- Grooming Assistant/Bather: $12–$18/hour; tips may add $50–$150/week
- Pet Groomer: $14–$25/hour base plus commission (total often $30k–$60k/year)
- Shift Lead/Supervisor: $15–$20/hour (≈$31k–$42k/year)
- Assistant Manager: $36k–$48k/year
- Store Manager: $45k–$65k/year + performance bonus
- Benefits/Extras: shift differentials, sales bonuses, commission, and employee discounts
Final Takeaway
Working at a pet store can be a fulfilling career choice if you enjoy hands-on work with animals and customers.
Prepare your resume, apply online or in person, and show real care for pets during interviews.
Take the next step now—apply today and start your journey toward a rewarding role in this growing field.
