If you’re a pet enthusiast looking to turn your passion into a career, the journey begins with one simple step: landing a job with PetSmart. In a world where work meets wagging tails and purring companions, PetSmart offers a unique opportunity to combine your love for animals with a fulfilling profession.
Whether you aspire to be a groomer, a trainer, or simply want to work in a pet-friendly environment, this article will guide you through the exciting process of securing a job at PetSmart. We will take a deep dive into the following:
- Job roles
- Eligibility requirements
- Qualities they seek
- Application process
- Hiring Process
- Salary structure and benefits
- Internships
Job Roles Offered at PetSmart
Retail and Store Associates
Roles like cashier, stocker, and sales associate are front-line positions. Are you friendly, passionate, and customer-focused? This may be your calling!
Specialized Roles
Pet Care Specialists care for pets individually, ensure their habitat is clean, educate pet owners about their little friends, and ensure their well-being.
Pet Trainers instruct pet owners on essential training techniques and encourage pet-human bonds.
As a Bather or Groomer, you’ll ensure pets look their best.
As a Petshotel Associate, you’ll provide loving care for pets when their parents are away.
Distribution Center Roles
A well-managed distribution center is critical for any retail company. Whether managing inventory, packing and shipping orders, or operating heavy machinery, PetSmart’s distribution center is the company’s backbone. Through the use of forklifts and other machinery, you will ensure that the products reach the stores and, ultimately, the customers on time.
Tech Roles
With opportunities in web development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and more, PetSmart is looking for technology-savvy staff to head up the company’s digital initiatives.
Management and Leadership Roles
As a Store Manager/Assistant, you lead store operations, support staff, enhance customer and pet experience, and mentor the team for career growth.
Requirements for a Job at PetSmart
Age, Citizenship, and Education Requirements
- 18 years of age
- High school diploma
- Legally eligible to work in the United States
Experience and Skills
Having prior experience is a plus, but PetSmart will employ someone without experience if they display a genuine interest in animals and have a heart for them.
Physical and Emotional Capabilities
It might be necessary to have some physical stamina to work at PetSmart, especially if you handle animals or stock shelves. You need to be emotionally resilient since dealing with pets and their owners can be challenging. The most important thing you’ll need is to show a love for animals.
Drug Testing and Background Check
PetSmart conducts background checks and drug tests on all potential employees for greater trust and safety for both customers and employees.
What PetSmart Looks for in Potential Employees
Passion for Animals
It should come as no surprise that one of the qualities PetSmart wants in its employees is a strong affinity for animals. No matter which role you play, understanding pets’ needs is paramount. You do not have to own a pet, but having some experience as a dog walker, volunteering at an animal shelter, etc., is necessary. Let your passion shine through!
Customer Service Skills
PetSmart is a retail store, so having excellent customer service skills is non-negotiable.
Teamwork and Communication
Your success at PetSmart depends on how well you work with the rest of the team. You’ll be a good fit for the company if you have excellent communication skills and are a team player.
Problem-Solving and Time Management Skills
Fast-paced retail environments like PetSmart require flexible thinkers and efficient time managers.
Applying For a Job at Petsmart
Where to Find Job Listings
PetSmart has numerous positions available on the career section of its website. Sniff out some hot jobs by department, job type, and location; just waiting for you to explore!
Online Application Process
To apply, select a position and fill out the online application. You’ll be asked for basic personal information and information about your preferred type of job, relevant experience, and availability.
How to Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter
Creating a robust resume and cover letter is vital. Emphasize your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Whether you’ve interacted with clients in a previous job, dedicated your time to an animal shelter, or led a project team, incorporate these experiences in your application.
In your cover letter, convey your enthusiasm for the company’s mission and the specific role you’re applying for.
Remember that your resume and cover letter often serve as the initial impression you make, so it’s vital to ensure they are free from errors and accurately reflect your strengths.
Petsmart Hiring Process
The Interview Process
If all goes well with your application, you will be contacted for an interview. Depending on the position you applied for, you may have one or more interviews. Typically, they last between 30 minutes to an hour. Either the store manager or an HR representative will conduct the interview.
During the interview, you can expect questions designed to learn more about your skills, relevant experience, and – of course – your love for animals. For more detailed information regarding interview questions at PetSmart, see A Guide to Interview Questions at Petsmart for the Professional Pet Peddler.
Remember to dress professionally and relax – your four-legged friends will be there to cheer you on!
Hiring Decision & Offer
Fingers crossed that all went well and you received an offer of employment. You will usually hear within a few weeks at the most.
Be sure to read the job offer carefully, including the details of your schedule, role responsibilities, and compensation.
Onboarding & Training
Once you accept the job offer, you must undergo an onboarding process. A Petsmart employee will take part in detailed and comprehensive training. If your role involves pets or pet care, you will also learn about different types of pets and how to care for them. Your training involves learning about your role, company policies, and customer service expectations.
Salary of PetSmart Employees
At PetSmart, employee salaries vary depending on the job role, location, level of experience, and years of service.
- Sales Associate – $12 per hour
- Pet trainers and pet care specialists – $11 per hour
- Groomers – $14 per hour plus tips
- Management roles $50,000 to $80,000
Consistent with industry norms, positions in PetSmart’s distribution centers or corporate roles, such as in their tech team, may offer higher salaries due to the nature of the work and the skills required.
You shouldn’t forget that your salary is just a starting point. PetSmart is committed to recognizing its employees’ hard work and contributions. Therefore, as an employee, you can expect periodic performance-based raises, bonuses for high performers, and flexible schedules.
Benefits of Different Job Roles at PetSmart
Comprehensive Health Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision for full-time employees
Paid Vacation Time
Sales, customer service, and pet care roles expect paid vacation time plus health benefits
Financial and Retirement Benefits
Managerial or leadership – Robust financial and retirement benefits, including 401(k) plans, plus the health and vacation perks
Employee Discount
All employees – employee discount on store merchandise and services
Training Opportunities
The PetSmart team believes in continuous learning and professional development. You can use training opportunities to enhance your skills and improve your performance. You can learn grooming skills in PetSmart’s Grooming Academy, which is a great way to prepare for specialized positions.
Internship Opportunities at Petsmart
Eligibility and Application Process
- You must be enrolled in an accredited university and working towards your degree associated with the internship you seek.
- Submit an updated cover letter and resume highlighting your skills, experiences, and desire to intern with PetSmart.
Types of Internships Offered
Digital Experience Internship – tech-savvy and customer-focused, working closely with the digital team to create user-friendly online experiences for Petsmart customers.
The Merchandising Internship Program – product assortment, negotiation, marketing, and inventory management.
Store Operations Internship – Manage all aspects of a Petsmart location, from customer service to teamwork and leadership.
What to Expect as an Intern
The internship program at Petsmart aims to offer a well-rounded educational opportunity. Instead of routine tasks like fetching coffee, you’ll engage in meaningful projects supporting the company’s objectives.
Most importantly, you’ll immerse yourself in a cooperative and inclusive atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their role, shares a passion for animals and a dedication to exceptional customer service.
Throughout your journey, you can count on ongoing support and constructive input while you contribute to advancing Petsmart’s mission. Remember, it’s a learning adventure, so don’t hesitate to seek assistance or pose inquiries.
Benefits for Interns at Petsmart
Hands-on Experience and Learning Opportunities
The experience you acquire as an intern will help you develop and hone numerous skills crucial to your professional growth.
Networking and Mentorship
Petsmart interns don’t just observe. They interact with experienced professionals within the company, opening up various networking opportunities for them. In addition to providing you with mentorships throughout your career, these relationships can give you a deeper understanding of the industry.
Potential for Full-Time Employment
Internships are often used as stepping stones to full-time employment. Companies value talent and willingness to learn, and proving these qualities could result in a job offer at the end of the internship.
Final Words
Finding the right job for you depends on your skills, knowledge, values, and passions. If you have a deep love for animals and a desire to contribute positively to their lives, PetSmart offers an environment that brings both worlds together.
The opportunities for growth and learning at PetSmart are plentiful. Now is the time to take that next step! Your ideal job is just a mouse click away.
Next Steps
The first step towards landing a job at Petsmart or any other company is to introspectively evaluate your career goals and skills.
Our dedicated career coaches help steer you toward a fulfilling and successful career by understanding your unique talents and aspirations. Contact them today!