Looking for a dog grooming job in California? GroomerJob.com currently lists 104 open positions spanning 73 cities statewide. California's pet care sector continues to grow as pet ownership rises and demand for professional grooming outpaces the available workforce. San Diego is the top hiring hub with 5 openings.

Who Is Hiring Groomers in California?

Grooming professionals in California have plenty of employers to choose from. Current leaders in hiring volume are PetSmart (28 jobs), Barkbus (19 jobs), Petco (14 jobs), Best Friends Pet Care (7 jobs), Wag Hotels (6 jobs). Each brings a different work environment: franchise locations tend to offer benefits, consistent scheduling, and brand training programs, whereas boutique grooming shops may offer higher per-dog earnings, creative freedom, and closer relationships with pet parents.

Grooming Roles Available Across California

California employers are hiring across the full spectrum of grooming roles. Current openings include: dog groomers (66), grooming managers (14), pet stylists (14), dog bathers (10). Dog bather jobs serve as the entry point for most grooming careers, while pet stylist and grooming manager positions represent the upper tiers of both skill and compensation. The variety ensures that professionals at any stage can find a fitting role.

How Much Do Groomers Earn in California?

Grooming professionals in California can expect annual earnings between $20,800 and $130,000, averaging around $49,526. These figures reflect base compensation from job postings and do not include tips, which are a significant part of groomer income. Metro areas within California tend to pay above the state average, while rural positions may offer lower base pay but often come with lower cost of living.

Where Are the Grooming Jobs in California?

The strongest hiring activity in California is centered in San Diego (5 jobs), San Jose (5 jobs), Penngrove (3 jobs), Del Mar (3 jobs), Thousand Oaks (3 jobs). These cities have the highest density of pet grooming salons and the most active job market. However, growing suburban areas often represent hidden opportunities: newer salons in expanding neighborhoods frequently struggle to staff up and may offer signing incentives or above-market pay.

How to Become a Dog Groomer in California

Breaking into dog grooming in California is accessible at any age or background. The fastest path is to apply for a bather position at a salon that offers a grooming apprenticeship track — companies like Petco and PetSmart run structured academy programs that take you from zero experience to certified groomer. Alternatively, private grooming schools in California offer intensive programs that can be completed in 8-16 weeks. Either way, expect to invest 6-12 months of hands-on learning before taking on full grooming appointments independently.

Want to find grooming jobs close to home? Visit grooming jobs near me in California to search by city and find local opportunities within commuting distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog grooming jobs are available in California?

California currently has 104 open dog grooming positions across 73 cities. New jobs are added daily from franchises, independent salons, and mobile grooming companies.

What do dog groomers earn in California?

Dog groomer salaries in California range from $20,800 to $130,000 per year based on current listings, with an average of $49,526. Actual earnings are often higher when tips and commission are included.

Do I need a license to be a dog groomer in California?

California does not require a specific state license to work as a dog groomer. However, you may need a general business license to operate a grooming salon. Professional certifications from organizations like NDGAA or IPG are voluntary but can boost your credentials and earning potential.

How do I become a dog groomer in California?

Most dog groomers in California start as bathers at a local salon, learning on the job before advancing to grooming. No formal education is required. Employer-provided training programs, grooming schools, and professional certifications (NDGAA, IPG) can accelerate your career. The typical path from bather to independent groomer takes 6-12 months.