Lead Mobile Groomer & Technical Trainer

About the Role

Happy Tails RVA is seeking a highly skilled and leadership-oriented Lead Mobile Groomer & Technical Trainer to join our growing team. This is a unique, hybrid role designed for a professional who excels in the mobile environment and is passionate about elevating the skills of others.

Your week will be a balance of hands-on grooming and dedicated mentorship. You will spend 2–3 days per week in the field providing premium mobile grooming services and 1–2 days per week focused on training both new and existing staff on the latest industry trends, advanced techniques, and the proprietary Happy Tails RVA processes and procedures.

Key Responsibilities

Grooming & Mobile Operations (2–3 Days Per Week)

• High-Level Grooming: Perform full-service grooming at an expert level, including breed-standard cuts and hand-scissoring. Must demonstrate low-stress handling for a variety of breeds and temperaments to ensure a safe and calm environment for every pet.
• Client Relationship Management: Act as a senior brand ambassador for our Richmond-area clients, ensuring high-end, personalized service at their doorstep.
• Daily Van Maintenance: Responsible for the thorough cleaning, inventory management, and basic upkeep of the mobile grooming unit during active grooming shifts to ensure a pristine environment for every client.

Training & Technical Leadership (1–2 Days Per Week)

• Mobile Unit Excellence: Assist with the maintenance and operational readiness of our state-of-the-art mobile units.
• Skills Development: Conduct formal training sessions for the grooming team on modern trends, advanced coat treatments, and specialized styling.
• Onboarding & Process: Lead the technical orientation for all new hires, ensuring they are fully proficient in Happy Tails RVA’s specific safety protocols and operational procedures.
• Standardization & Quality: Perform "ride-alongs" and quality checks to ensure consistent, top-tier grooming standards across the entire fleet.
• Process Documentation: Assist ownership in updating and refining internal "SOPs" (Standard Operating Procedures) for grooming techniques and van maintenance.

Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 5 years of professional grooming experience, with a proven track record as an experienced mobile groomer. Experience with Wag N Tails Sprinter vans and/or Gryphon Dodge Ram Promaster vans.
• Technical Mastery: Proficiency in advanced hand-scissoring, breed-specific patterns, and deep knowledge of current industry trends. Industry recognized pet grooming certification(s) highly preferred.
• Education: High school degree or degree equivalent required.
• Instructional Ability: The ability to break down complex grooming techniques and mobile-specific workflows into clear, teachable steps.
• Driving: Valid driver’s license and clean record; comfort operating and maneuvering large mobile units.
• Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills; ability to provide constructive feedback and foster a positive, professional team culture.

What We Offer

• Balanced Schedule: A structured hybrid work week that blends high-energy grooming with rewarding mentorship.
• Competitive Compensation:
  •  50% commission for all grooming services.
  • Competitive hourly rate for all dedicated mentorship and administration activities.
• Retirement Benefits: 401k available for qualified employees.
• Healthcare Benefits: Healthcare stipend reimbursement available for qualified employees.
• Growth Opportunity: Play a pivotal role in the expansion of a successful, locally-owned mobile business that values excellence.
• Premium Environment: Work with the best equipment in the industry within a supportive, milestone-celebrating team culture.