Tennessee has a thriving pet grooming industry with 23 active job listings across 19 cities. The most in-demand role right now is dog groomers, and employers ranging from national franchises to independent salons are actively seeking qualified candidates. US Retail leads hiring in the state with 5 open positions.

Top Employers Hiring Dog Groomers in Tennessee

The Tennessee grooming job market is served by a mix of national chains and regional independents. The top hiring companies include US Retail (5 jobs), Petco (4 jobs), Zoomin Groomin WL (3 jobs), Scenthound Franklin, TN (2 jobs), PetSmart (2 jobs). In total, 10+ employers are actively posting grooming positions in Tennessee. National franchises offer structured training programs and career paths, while independent salons often provide more flexibility, tip-based income, and one-on-one mentorship.

Types of Grooming Positions in Tennessee

The current breakdown of grooming jobs in Tennessee by role type: dog groomers (21), dog bathers (1), pet stylists (1). Entry-level bather positions are ideal for candidates new to the industry, requiring no prior experience and offering on-the-job training. Groomer and pet stylist roles demand hands-on experience with clipping, scissoring, and breed-specific techniques. Management positions combine grooming expertise with team leadership and business operations skills.

Dog Groomer Salary in Tennessee

Based on current job postings, grooming salaries in Tennessee range from $800 to $104,058 per year, with an average of approximately $51,304. Bather roles typically fall at the lower end of the range, while experienced groomers, pet stylists, and managers command higher compensation. Tips, commission on add-on services, and performance bonuses often supplement base pay significantly — many groomers report that tips add 15-25% to their total income.

Best Cities for Grooming Jobs in Tennessee

Grooming jobs in Tennessee are concentrated in several key markets. The cities with the most open positions right now are Brentwood (2 jobs), Clarksville (2 jobs), Cleveland (2 jobs), Memphis (2 jobs), Cordova (1 jobs). Larger population centers naturally have more salons and higher demand, but smaller cities often offer less competition for available positions. Consider broadening your search radius if your preferred city has limited openings — many groomers commute 20-30 minutes to access better opportunities.

Starting a Dog Grooming Career in Tennessee

Tennessee does not require a state license to work as a dog groomer, which means you can enter the field through employer-provided training, grooming school, or an apprenticeship. Most new groomers start as bathers, learning animal handling, coat types, and safety protocols on the job before advancing to scissoring and clipping. The timeline from bather to groomer is typically 6-12 months with consistent practice. Certifications from organizations like the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA) or International Professional Groomers (IPG) are voluntary but can increase your earning potential and credibility.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How many dog grooming jobs are available in Tennessee?

Tennessee currently has 23 open dog grooming positions across 19 cities. New jobs are added daily from franchises, independent salons, and mobile grooming companies.

What do dog groomers earn in Tennessee?

Dog groomer salaries in Tennessee range from $800 to $104,058 per year based on current listings, with an average of $51,304. Actual earnings are often higher when tips and commission are included.

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

Tennessee 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 Tennessee?

Most dog groomers in Tennessee 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.