Lead Kennel Assistant

*Lead Kennel Assistant - Job DescriptionSummary:* As a Lead Kennel Assistant at Southern Divine Kennels Pet Grooming, you will be an integral part of our team, ensuring the well-being and comfort of our furry guests.
Your responsibilities will include overseeing kennel operations, opening and closing the salon, completing pre-work for dogs, and training new bathers.
You will directly manage a team of kennel assistants, ensuring they adhere to quality standards and providing support as needed.
Your passion for animals, attention to detail, and leadership skills will contribute to the success of our grooming business.
*Key Responsibilities:* *Animal Care:* * Walk and provide water to dogs regularly, especially those staying for extended periods.
* Monitor pets' health, behavior, and overall well-being, promptly reporting any concerns to the salon assistant manager.
* Clean kennels after each dog has been removed, ensuring a hygienic environment.
* Perform basic grooming tasks such as bathing, brushing, and nail trims under the guidance of professional groomers and salon general manager.
* Provide compassionate care, attention, and comfort to pets during their stay.
*Facility Maintenance:* * Open and close the salon according to established procedures, ensuring all equipment is properly set up or stored.
* Complete pre-work for dogs, including preparing them for grooming sessions and ensuring they are ready for their appointments.
* Train new kennel assistants, providing guidance on grooming techniques, safety protocols, and customer service standards.
* Ensure cleanliness and orderliness throughout the facility, including kennels, grooming areas, and common spaces.
* Launder and sanitize bedding, towels, and other materials used in pet care.
* Perform routine cleaning tasks to maintain a hygienic environment.
* Maintain parking areas and front grassy areas, ensuring cleanliness and proper waste disposal.
*Customer Service and Communication:* * Greet pet owners and provide excellent customer service, assisting with check-in and check-out procedures.
* Communicate with pet owners about their pets' well-being, behavior, and any notable observations.
* Answer phone calls, schedule appointments, and handle inquiries efficiently and professionally.
* Follow specific instructions and requests from pet owners, ensuring their preferences are met.
* Attend scheduled marketing events as needed * Create engaging posts on social media platforms to help grow the business.
* Other duties may be assigned as needed *Team Collaboration:* * Collaborate effectively with groomers and the management team to maintain a cohesive work environment.
* Assist groomers during grooming sessions, preparing animals and providing support as needed.
* Provide leadership and guidance to bathers, ensuring they adhere to quality standards and follow protocols.
* Work together with colleagues to ensure smooth operations and provide backup support when required.
*Qualifications and Skills:* * High school diploma or equivalent.
* Previous experience working with animals, preferably in a kennel, grooming facility, veterinary clinic, or animal shelter.
* Basic knowledge of animal care practices, including feeding, exercise, and hygiene.
* Ability to handle and restrain animals safely and calmly.
* Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills.
* Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately.
* Physical stamina and ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 pounds) and stand for extended periods.
* Flexibility to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings as per business needs.
* Passion for animals and a genuine commitment to their well-being.
Reports to: Assistant Grooming Manager Job Types: Full-time, Part-time Pay: $14.
00 - $16.
00 per hour Expected hours: 35 – 45 per week Benefits: * Employee discount * Flexible schedule * Paid time off Work setting: * In-person Ability to Relocate: * Lincolnton, NC 28092: Relocate before starting work (Required) Work Location: In person