Senior Groomer / Salon Manager

You're the one who handles the aggressive dogs, the show-quality cuts, and the matted nightmares that make other groomers say 'nope.' You've been bitten enough times to have a sixth sense for when a dog is about to snap, and you can do a hand-scissored poodle cut that would win at Westminster. You also manage the shop's schedule, train new groomers, and handle the clients who think their dog should look like something from a dog show when it's built like a potato. The title is 'senior groomer' but the job is really 'the person everyone relies on.'

What you'll actually do

• 01Handle the difficult dogs that newer groomers won't touch — or can't
• 02Perform advanced breed-specific cuts that require knowing 200+ breed standards
• 03Train and supervise junior groomers who are still learning not to nick ears
• 04Manage the shop's daily schedule and juggle walk-ins with appointments
• 05Deal with owners who want to argue about pricing when their 80-pound doodle is one giant mat
• 06Inventory supplies, maintain equipment, and make sure the dryers don't catch fire

Career Path

Where this role sits in the bigger picture — and where it can take you.