Last Updated: April 8, 2026
Petco Application Guide : How to Apply for a Job Online
Quick Answer: Petco accepts job applications at careers.petco.com. Pet Care Associates earn $13–$17/hr; groomers earn $15–$25/hr or more depending on experience. The minimum age is 18 for most positions. The online application takes 15–25 minutes and requires basic work history. Petco also accepts in-store applications at most locations.
Petco is one of the two largest pet specialty retailers in the United States, operating approximately 1,500 stores across all 50 states plus Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Canada. The company employs roughly 27,000 people and offers positions across retail, grooming, veterinary services (Vetco Health Centers), and distribution. For animal lovers seeking retail employment, Petco offers a unique combination of pet-care training, grooming career tracks, and a generous pet insurance benefit not available at most other retailers.
By the Numbers
| Metric | Data | Source |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Store Locations | ~1,500 | Petco Annual Report |
| Total Employees | ~27,000 | Petco Official |
| Entry-Level Pay (Pet Care Associate) | $13–$17/hr | Glassdoor, Indeed 2024–2025 |
| Groomer Pay | $15–$25/hr + tips | Glassdoor, Indeed 2024–2025 |
| Minimum Age | 18 (16 for some markets) | Petco Careers |
| Application Method | Online or in-store | careers.petco.com |
| Drug Screen | Required for grooming roles | Petco Hiring Policy |
How to Apply at Petco
To apply at Petco, submit your application online at careers.petco.com or ask for a paper application at any Petco store. Online applications are processed faster, and most hiring managers check the online portal daily for new applicants. Walk-in inquiries at stores can also be effective — introducing yourself to the store manager shows initiative and is well-regarded at Petco.
Step 1: Visit the Petco Careers Portal
Go to careers.petco.com and search by position type (Retail, Grooming, Vetco, Distribution) and your ZIP code. Filter by “full-time” or “part-time” based on your availability.
Step 2: Create an Account or Apply as a Guest
Petco allows applications through a full account or as a guest. Creating an account lets you track application status and apply to multiple positions more quickly. Use a professional email address.
Step 3: Complete the Application
Enter your work history, education, availability, and answers to basic screening questions (e.g., “Do you have animal handling experience?”). For grooming positions, you will be asked about your grooming experience level and whether you have completed any certification programs.
Step 4: In-Store Follow-Up (Optional but Recommended)
After submitting online, visiting the store in person and introducing yourself to the manager can accelerate your application. Bring a printed copy of your resume and express your enthusiasm for the position. Petco store managers have significant discretion in hiring for hourly roles.
Step 5: Interview
Petco conducts 30–45 minute interviews for retail and grooming positions, typically with the Store Manager or Salon Leader. Grooming candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic pet handling skills. Vetco positions require a separate interview process coordinated through the veterinary services team.
Step 6: Background Check and Offer
All Petco hires undergo a standard background check. Grooming and Vetco positions may also require a drug screen. Offers are extended within 1–2 weeks of the final interview for store roles.
Petco Job Positions & Pay Rates
Petco’s most common entry-level positions are Pet Care Associate and Grooming Salon Stylist. The company also hires for in-store veterinary services through its Vetco Health Centers, which are staffed by licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Pay varies by market, with California and Northeast locations paying at the top of each range.
| Position | Pay Range | Employment Type | Min. Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pet Care Associate | $13–$17/hr | Full-time / Part-time | 18 |
| Cashier / Sales Associate | $13–$16/hr | Part-time | 18 |
| Dog Groomer (Entry/Apprentice) | $15–$18/hr + tips | Full-time / Part-time | 18 |
| Dog Groomer (Experienced) | $18–$25/hr + tips | Full-time | 18 |
| Lead Groomer / Salon Leader | $20–$28/hr | Full-time | 18 |
| Assistant Store Manager | $17–$22/hr | Full-time | 18 |
| Store Manager | $45,000–$65,000/yr | Full-time | 18 |
| Veterinary Technician (Vetco) | $18–$28/hr | Full-time | 18 |
Source: Glassdoor, Indeed, and Petco job postings (2024–2025). Groomer pay includes base hourly rate; tips and commission vary by salon volume.
Petco Application Requirements
Petco has moderate entry barriers for retail positions and more specific requirements for grooming and veterinary roles. Animal experience is preferred but not required for Pet Care Associate positions — Petco provides training on animal handling and care protocols.
- Minimum age: 18 for most positions; some markets allow 16-year-olds in limited retail roles (verify with your local store)
- Education: No formal education requirement for entry-level retail; grooming apprentices need only a high school diploma or GED
- Animal handling: Comfort and confidence handling dogs, cats, and small animals is required; experience is preferred but training is provided
- Physical requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (pet food bags), stand for extended periods, and safely handle animals of all sizes
- Grooming positions: Prior grooming experience or enrollment in the Petco Grooming Academy preferred; new stylists complete a multi-week hands-on training program
- Vetco positions: Active veterinary license (DVM) or veterinary technician certification required; state licensure must be current
- Availability: Retail positions require weekend availability; peak grooming slots are Saturdays and Sundays
Petco Interview Process
The Petco interview process for retail and grooming positions is typically a single in-store interview lasting 30–45 minutes with the Store Manager or Salon Leader. It is conversational in format, focusing on your love of animals, customer service experience, and availability. Candidates are often asked to describe their experience with specific pet species.
Common Petco Interview Questions
- “Tell me about your experience with pets — what animals have you owned or worked with?”
- “Describe a time you provided excellent customer service to someone who was upset.”
- “How would you handle a situation where a pet in our care became stressed or aggressive?”
- “Why do you want to work at Petco versus a general retailer?”
- “Are you comfortable discussing pet health, nutrition, and training products with customers?”
- “What is your availability? Are you able to work weekends?”
Interview Tips
- Express genuine enthusiasm for animal welfare and pet care — Petco managers respond strongly to authentic passion
- Mention any pets you own or have owned; sharing specific knowledge about animal breeds, behavior, or nutrition demonstrates expertise
- For grooming interviews, bring photos of dogs you have groomed (if applicable) or reference any grooming courses you have taken
- Dress neatly but practically — Petco managers understand that pet care involves physical work
- Ask about the Petco Grooming Academy if you are interested in grooming but lack experience
Petco Employee Benefits
Petco offers benefits to full-time employees and, in some cases, part-time employees working 20+ hours per week. The standout benefit is the pet insurance program — one of the most generous in the retail industry.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Pet Insurance | Subsidized pet insurance through Petco’s Vital Care program for employees’ own pets |
| Employee Discount | 20% discount on all Petco merchandise and services (including grooming) |
| Health Insurance | Medical, dental, and vision for full-time employees; eligible after 60 days |
| 401(k) Retirement Plan | Company match available for eligible employees |
| Paid Time Off | Accrued PTO for full-time employees; sick leave per state law |
| Grooming Academy | Paid training program for grooming apprentices — no prior experience required to enroll |
| Flexible Scheduling | Part-time schedules available; good for students and secondary employment |
| EAP | Employee Assistance Program including mental health, legal, and financial counseling |
| Adoption Fee Reimbursement | Reimbursement for pet adoptions from shelters (varies by location) |
Petco Career Development
Petco has two primary career tracks: retail management and grooming. Both tracks offer meaningful advancement opportunities for motivated employees. The Petco Grooming Academy is a standout program — it provides paid training to entry-level groomers with no prior experience required, progressing through Bather, Stylist, and Senior Stylist levels.
| Role | Typical Timeline | Pay Range |
|---|---|---|
| Pet Care Associate / Cashier | Entry level | $13–$17/hr |
| Senior Pet Care Associate | 6–12 months | $15–$18/hr |
| Department Lead | 1–2 years | $16–$20/hr |
| Assistant Store Manager | 2–4 years | $17–$22/hr |
| Store Manager | 4–7 years | $45,000–$65,000/yr |
Grooming track: Bather → Apprentice Stylist → Stylist → Senior Stylist → Salon Leader. Each promotion level comes with a pay increase and access to more advanced grooming certifications. Petco partners with Bravura Pet Grooming School for additional professional development.
For comparison, see our guide to PetSmart jobs and pay, Petco’s primary competitor.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Petco Application
Does Petco pay for grooming training?
Yes. Petco’s Grooming Academy is a paid training program for new groomers. Apprentices are paid their regular hourly rate while completing the multi-week program, which covers dog handling, bathing, drying, basic styling, and breed-specific cuts. There is no cost to the employee. After completing the Academy, groomers are promoted to Apprentice Stylist with a pay increase.
What is the minimum age to work at Petco?
The standard minimum age at Petco is 18. Some stores in certain states may hire 16-year-olds for limited roles (cashier, stocking) depending on local labor laws and manager discretion, but 18 is the general requirement. Grooming positions require age 18 in all markets due to the nature of animal handling and equipment use.
Does Petco do drug tests?
Petco does not routinely drug test for standard retail positions such as Pet Care Associate or Cashier. Grooming positions and management roles may require a drug screen in some markets. Drug testing policies can vary by location and state. If drug testing is required, it will be communicated during the offer stage.
How long does the Petco hiring process take?
For entry-level retail and grooming positions, the Petco hiring process typically takes 1–3 weeks. After submitting your online application, you can expect a phone screen or direct interview invitation within 3–7 days if your profile matches an open position. Stores with high turnover or immediate openings may move faster — some applicants report receiving an offer within one week of applying.
Can I apply at Petco without animal experience?
Yes. Prior animal experience is preferred but not required for Pet Care Associate and cashier roles. Petco provides training on animal handling, care protocols, and product knowledge. What managers look for most is genuine enthusiasm for animals and comfort being around them. If you are applying for a grooming position with no grooming experience, ask specifically about the Grooming Academy — it is designed for applicants without prior training.
What is Petco’s employee discount?
Petco employees receive a 20% discount on all merchandise and services, including grooming services. This discount extends to pet food, supplies, accessories, and in-store veterinary services at Vetco locations. The discount applies from your first day of employment and does not have a waiting period.