Last Updated: April 7, 2026
PetSmart Application Guide: How to Apply Online
How to Apply at PetSmart
PetSmart accepts both online applications and in-store applications for most positions. Online applications through careers.petsmart.com are the primary method and allow you to apply to multiple locations. Walk-in applications are accepted at some stores but are not guaranteed. The hiring process from application to first day typically takes 1–2 weeks for store associates and up to 4 weeks for grooming apprentice positions.
Step 1: Search Open Positions
Visit careers.petsmart.com and use the job search to filter by location, job category (stores, distribution, corporate), and job type (full-time, part-time, seasonal). You can also apply by walking into any PetSmart store and asking for a paper application or completing the in-store kiosk application.
Step 2: Create Your Candidate Profile
New applicants create a profile with basic contact information, work authorization status, and availability. You can upload a résumé or complete the form manually. PetSmart’s portal allows you to save and track application status. Creating an account also lets you receive job alerts for new openings at your preferred locations.
Step 3: Complete the Application
The application asks about your work history, education, availability, and interest in specific departments (pet care, grooming, training, cashier). Be specific about your availability — PetSmart is a 7-day-a-week retailer and weekend availability significantly increases your chances. Animal experience questions appear in the application; mention any pets, volunteer work, or related experience.
Step 4: Online Assessment
Most PetSmart applications include a short behavioral assessment (15–20 minutes) covering customer service scenarios and workplace attitudes. Answer consistently and naturally — the assessment screens for customer focus, reliability, and teamwork. Incomplete assessments will prevent your application from moving forward.
Step 5: Interview
Qualified candidates receive a call for an in-store interview within 3–7 business days. The interview is typically 20–30 minutes with a store manager or department lead. Grooming apprentice interviews may include a skills assessment and discussion of your comfort level handling live animals.
Step 6: Background Check and Onboarding
A conditional offer is followed by a standard background check (3–5 business days). Onboarding includes PetSmart’s required pet care training — all new associates complete mandatory modules on animal handling, nutrition basics, and store safety before their first customer-facing shift.
PetSmart Job Positions & Pay Rates
PetSmart employs associates across retail floor operations, grooming salons, training services, and live animal care. Grooming and training positions offer the highest earning potential due to commission and tip structures on top of base pay. Pet Care Specialists who become certified in specific departments (reptiles, fish, birds) also earn premium rates.
| Position | Starting Pay | Experienced Pay | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pet Care Associate / Cashier | $13–$15/hr | $15–$18/hr | Part-time / Full-time |
| Pet Care Specialist | $14–$17/hr | $17–$21/hr | Part-time / Full-time |
| Grooming Apprentice | $13–$15/hr + tips | $15–$18/hr + tips | Full-time (training period) |
| Groomer (certified) | $15–$18/hr + tips | $18–$24/hr + tips | Full-time |
| Salon Leader / Master Groomer | $20–$25/hr + tips | $25–$32/hr + tips | Full-time |
| Dog Trainer (Accredited) | $15–$19/hr + commission | $19–$26/hr + commission | Part-time / Full-time |
| Store Manager | $55,000–$70,000/yr | $70,000–$90,000/yr | Salaried |
PetSmart Application Requirements
PetSmart’s requirements vary by role. Entry-level retail positions have low barriers to entry, while grooming and training roles require specific age minimums, certifications, and comfort with animal handling.
- Minimum age: 16 for cashier, floor associate, and pet care roles. 18 for grooming apprentice, pet hotel, and animal care specialist positions. Some states set higher minimums for roles involving chemical handling (grooming products).
- Animal comfort: All associates must be comfortable handling live animals including reptiles, birds, fish, and small mammals. Fear of animals or allergies to animal dander are material to the role.
- Availability: PetSmart stores are open 7 days/week, typically 9am–9pm. Weekend and holiday availability is strongly preferred. Full-time commitment (30+ hrs/wk) is needed for benefits eligibility.
- Physical requirements: Lifting up to 50 lbs (pet food, aquariums), standing for extended periods, and working in an environment with animal odors and noise.
- Grooming-specific: Grooming apprentice applicants must be 18, complete PetSmart’s 800+ hour grooming academy, and pass both a written and practical certification exam.
PetSmart Interview Process
PetSmart interviews are conversational and pet-centric. Interviewers want to confirm that you genuinely enjoy animals and can provide quality customer service to pet owners who are often deeply attached to their pets. The process is less formal than corporate retail but more selective than standard retail chains due to the animal care component.
What to Expect
- Online assessment: Behavioral screening completed as part of the application. Results affect whether you receive an interview invitation.
- Phone or walk-in screen: Some stores call to schedule in-person; others invite candidates to come in. Ask about preferred interview dress code when scheduling.
- In-store interview: 20–30 minutes with a manager. Questions about your experience with pets, customer service scenarios, and schedule availability.
- Grooming apprentice assessment: Involves discussing your comfort with handling dogs and cats of varying sizes and temperaments, and your long-term interest in grooming as a career.
Common PetSmart Interview Questions
- “What experience do you have with animals — what pets have you had or worked with?”
- “Tell me about a time you provided excellent customer service.”
- “How would you handle a customer whose pet seemed ill or distressed in the store?”
- “Why do you want to work at PetSmart specifically?”
- “What days and hours are you available?”
Interview Tips
Mention your own pets, pet sitting history, or volunteer experience at shelters — it matters enormously at PetSmart. Interviewers are evaluating genuine passion for animals, not just willingness to do the job. Wear clean, casual business attire (avoid strong perfumes, as animals react to them). Research PetSmart’s “Anything for Pets” mission and their PetSmart Charities involvement — hiring managers appreciate candidates who know the company beyond the job listing. For grooming roles specifically, come prepared to explain your long-term career interest in professional grooming, as PetSmart invests significantly in the apprenticeship program and prioritizes candidates likely to stay.
PetSmart Employee Benefits
PetSmart benefits are competitive for specialty retail. The 15% merchandise discount is a meaningful perk for associates who own pets and regularly buy supplies. Benefits eligibility for health insurance requires 30+ hours/week averaged over a measurement period.
| Benefit | Part-Time | Full-Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Employee Discount | Yes | Yes | 15% off merchandise; 10% off grooming and training services |
| Health Insurance | Qualifying hours | Yes | Medical, dental, vision for eligible associates |
| 401(k) with Match | After eligibility | Yes | Company match for qualifying employees |
| Paid Time Off | Accrual (some states) | Yes | Vacation and sick accrual per company policy |
| Grooming Education | Yes | Yes | Paid grooming apprenticeship (800+ hours) for apprentices |
| Dog Training Certification | Yes | Yes | Paid AKC-recognized training certification for trainers |
| Mental Health Support | Yes | Yes | EAP access for all associates |
PetSmart Career Development
PetSmart’s grooming and training programs represent some of the best career development opportunities in specialty retail. The paid grooming apprenticeship — through which PetSmart covers the cost of an 800+ hour professional grooming program — is a significant investment that transforms entry-level hires into certified professionals with strong earning potential. Many groomers who complete the program earn $40,000–$60,000/yr or more within 2–3 years through hourly pay, tips, and retail commission. PetSmart also promotes store-level associates into management, with most store and district managers promoted internally.
| Role | Avg. Time to Reach | Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Care Associate | Day 1 | $13–$17/hr |
| Pet Care Specialist | 0–6 months | $14–$21/hr |
| Certified Groomer | 9–18 months (via apprenticeship) | $15–$24/hr + tips |
| Salon Leader | 2–3 years | $20–$32/hr + tips |
| Assistant Store Manager | 2–4 years (store track) | $40,000–$55,000/yr |
| Store Manager | 4–7 years | $55,000–$90,000/yr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to work at PetSmart?
The minimum age to work at PetSmart is 16 for most floor associate, cashier, and pet care positions. The grooming apprentice program requires applicants to be at least 18, as it involves chemical handling and unsupervised animal grooming. Pet hotel associates and animal care specialists also require employees to be 18. Check the specific job listing for your desired role and location.
How much does PetSmart pay per hour?
Entry-level PetSmart Pet Care Associates and cashiers start at $13–$15/hr depending on market and location. Pet Care Specialists earn $14–$17/hr. Certified Groomers earn $15–$24/hr plus tips, with experienced groomers in high-volume salons earning significantly more. In high cost-of-living states like California and New York, starting pay is typically at the top of or above these ranges.
Does PetSmart offer a paid grooming apprenticeship?
Yes. PetSmart’s Grooming Academy is a paid training program that takes approximately 800 hours (roughly 20 weeks). Apprentices are paid hourly throughout the training period, and PetSmart covers the cost of the certification. This is one of the only paths to becoming a professional dog groomer that doesn’t require paying for an external vocational program, making it highly competitive during hiring for grooming roles.
Does PetSmart drug test employees?
PetSmart conducts background checks on all new hires but does not typically require pre-employment drug testing for standard store associate positions. Drug testing policies can vary by location, state law, and role type. Management and distribution center positions may be subject to different testing requirements. If drug testing is a concern, contact the specific store or HR during the application process.
Can you work at PetSmart without pet experience?
Yes, though demonstrated interest in animals is strongly preferred. PetSmart provides all required training, so prior professional pet experience is not necessary for entry-level roles. However, applicants who have owned pets, volunteered at shelters, or have any animal care background will be viewed more favorably than those with no animal experience. The most important quality PetSmart looks for is genuine comfort around animals and interest in pet care.