At least one year of professional dog grooming experience and a valid driver's license are required to be considered for this role. We are currently hiring for the following CHI area teams:
Naperville
Wheeling
About Us
Barkbus is the nation's premier mobile grooming service, passionately committed to the health, happiness, and overall wellness of pups. We proudly serve pet parents across AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, NC, NV, NJ, NY, PA, SC, TX, and VA.
Our mission is to deliver joy to pets and their people. We achieve this by creating safe, healthy, and stress-free environments for both our dogs and our dedicated groomers, believing that caring for pets starts with caring for our team.
What Makes Barkbus Different?
Quality Focused: We prioritize quality over quantity. Groomers manage schedules of just 3-6 dogs per day, ensuring every pup receives the dedicated time and attention they deserve.
Focused on Grooming: We handle the sales and marketing, freeing you to focus on what you do best: creating amazing transformations and making tails wag! It’s a place to fall in love with grooming again.
Community & Creativity: Join a team that celebrates the fun of what we do every day - from van-in-the-wild moments to celebrating every pup’s glow-up.
Comprehensive Benefits: Full-time groomers enjoy a strong benefits package, including paid time off, paid holidays, health benefits, and 401(k) retirement plans.
About the Role
Join Barkbus as a Pet Stylist, where your passion and skills for grooming dogs translate into a stress-free, luxury experience for every pup. We support our groomers with a positive, groomer-first culture, giving you the freedom and support you need to excel.
What You’ll Do:
Deliver premium 1-on-1 care, performing all aspects of grooming: bathing, cutting, shaving and trimming.
Operate independently within our state-of-the-art Hanvey grooming vans.
Prioritize safety and quality while maintaining a manageable daily schedule.
Select from various shift types to best fit your personal schedule.
How We Support You:
Receive dedicated scheduling assistance to ensure your appointments fit your pace.
Benefit from our concierge and fleet teams, who manage all van maintenance and logistical support.
Role Requirements
1+ years of professional grooming experience
Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Comfortable interacting with customers/pet parents
Comfortable using smart phones (device provided!)
Ability to safely lift and handle dogs up to 50 lbs unassisted
Ability to safely guide or maneuver dogs up to 100 lbs with the use of the van’s equipment (e.g., lift, grooming table)
Compensation, Benefits & Perks
Pay & Bonuses:
$26 - $35/hour (base pay plus tips)
Weekly bonus potential of up to $225
Weekly payroll
Comprehensive Benefits (for employees working 30+ hours/week):
Medical, dental, and vision coverage (for employees, dependents, and domestic partners)
Pet Insurance
401(k) retirement savings plan
Generous paid time off, including vacation time, sick leave, and up to 11 holidays
Up to three (3) company-paid International Professional Groomer (IPG) certifications
Complimentary snacks and beverages at all local hubs
Beyond these formal benefits, Barkbus Pet Stylists join a dedicated team committed to a positive work environment, professional growth, and safety.
Our Hiring Journey
Application: Submit your resume, and we’ll be in touch!
Initial Screening: A brief phone call for us to get to know one another.
Deeper Dive: A 30-minute virtual meeting with a Grooming Manager for in-depth discussion.
The Pawdition: An on-site technical grooming assessment.
Final Steps: Offer letter and background check.
Joining Barkbus
Launch Week: Your first week includes comprehensive training and ride-alongs to ensure a successful start.
Giving Back: Participate in a Community Day focused on providing low-stress grooms at local shelters and rescues.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Barkbus is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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