How Old Do You Have to Be to Work at PetSmart?

Ever dreamed of turning your love for animals into a rewarding career? At PetSmart, it’s more than just a retail job—it’s a vibrant environment where animal enthusiasts, customer service experts, and pet lovers can turn their passion into a paycheck. Whether you’re a college student looking for part-time work or someone seeking a meaningful career, PetSmart offers more than just a job—it offers an experience like no other.

From caring for adorable critters to helping pet parents find the perfect chew toy, PetSmart stores are bustling with opportunities where professional growth meets genuine love for animals. Curious if you’re the right fit?

We’re breaking down everything you need to know—age requirements to work at PetSmart, job roles, what you’ll actually do, and why PetSmart might just be the coolest workplace you’ve never considered.

PetSmart Job Opportunities

PetSmart employs thousands of individuals across its retail stores, corporate offices, and distribution centers. Its retail locations, typically in busy shopping centers, serve as the most accessible entry point for job seekers. These locations offer a variety of positions, ranging from customer-facing roles to hands-on animal care and training opportunities, allowing individuals to pursue careers that align with their passion for pets and customer service. Whether looking to work directly with animals, interact with customers, or support business operations behind the scenes, PetSmart provides a diverse work environment to match different career interests.

Departments and Responsibilities

At PetSmart, employees work in various departments, each offering unique responsibilities:

• Pet Care Department: This department is dedicated to the well-being of pets and involves tasks such as feeding, cleaning habitats, and offering health and habitat guidance to customers. Employees in this role must be attentive, knowledgeable, and compassionate, ensuring the comfort and safety of pets in the store.
• Retail Sales: This role requires employees to stock shelves, organize displays, and assist customers in selecting the best products for their pets. It involves both product knowledge and strong customer service skills, as associates often need to advise customers on the best food, toys, and accessories for their pets.
• Grooming and Training Services: Employees in this department provide specialized grooming and obedience training services for pets. This role typically requires additional certifications, which can be acquired through on-the-job training or formal courses provided by PetSmart. The services offered not only cater to pet owners’ needs but also serve as a key source of revenue for the company.

These roles highlight the importance of customer service and animal care skills in creating a professional environment for pet owners. It’s not just about handling products; it’s about fostering a positive interaction between pets and their owners in-store.

What Makes a Great PetSmart Employee?

Successful employees at PetSmart share a common passion for animals and a dedication to excellent customer service. Enthusiasm, patience, and a proactive attitude go a long way in ensuring customer satisfaction and building rapport with pet owners. Compassion and empathy are equally important, especially for roles that involve live animal care. Employees must be able to handle pets gently, respond to their needs, and educate customers on proper pet care techniques. A love for animals is at the core of PetSmart’s values, making it a natural fit for those looking to work in a supportive, animal-friendly environment.

Minimum Age Requirement to Work at PetSmart

To work at PetSmart, applicants must generally be at least 18 years old. PetSmart age requirement aligns with federal labor laws and reflects the responsibilities involved in most positions. For instance, roles like pet care associate or cashier often require handling live animals or managing transactions, which demand a certain level of maturity and accountability. Employees in these roles need to be able to deal with pets calmly and responsibly and understand the safety procedures related to live animal care.

In some states, local labor laws may influence the minimum hiring age, but PetSmart predominantly enforces the 18-year minimum across its locations. This age requirement ensures that employees can handle the physical and emotional demands of the job, as well as adhere to company policies regarding pet care and customer service.

How Much Does PetSmart Pay?

PetSmart offers competitive pay rates that vary by role and location. Below is a breakdown of the average hourly wages for common positions:

Pay may vary based on location, experience, and whether the position is part-time or full-time. PetSmart offers performance bonuses and incentives for employees who exceed sales goals or provide exceptional customer service, which can contribute to increased earnings.

Positions Available for Young Workers at PetSmart

Entry-level positions are ideal for those starting their careers. Here are the most common roles at PetSmart:

• Cashier: A customer-facing role focused on efficient checkouts and friendly service. Cashiers handle transactions, answer customer questions, and ensure a smooth shopping experience.
• Pet Care Associate: A hands-on role requiring compassion for animals and knowledge of pet care essentials. These employees are responsible for feeding, cleaning, and providing daily care to pets in the store.
• Pet Products Associate: Perfect for those who prefer behind-the-scenes tasks like stocking shelves and maintaining store displays. This role involves organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure the store is well-stocked and products are easily accessible to customers.

These roles offer valuable experience for individuals passionate about pets and customer interaction. They also provide opportunities for advancement within the company as employees gain experience and build their skills in animal care and retail management.

Are PetSmart and Petco the Same Company?

Although PetSmart and Petco are both leading pet supply retailers, they are separate companies with distinct operational strategies. PetSmart focuses heavily on in-store services like grooming and daycare, while Petco emphasizes health and wellness products. This distinction also extends to the roles and career opportunities available at each company. While PetSmart provides a broader range of retail services, Petco’s focus is on pet health care and product quality, which influences the types of positions available, such as veterinary assistants and pet technicians.

Are PetSmart Training Classes Good?

PetSmart’s training classes are highly regarded, particularly for pet owners seeking basic obedience training for their pets. These programs are conducted by certified trainers and cover various behavioral skills. Employees involved in training roles often receive hands-on certification, making it an excellent career-building opportunity. The training classes help employees understand pet behavior, grooming techniques, and customer interaction, which enhances the customer experience and promotes professional growth within the company.

Tips for Applying to PetSmart

To improve your chances of landing a job at PetSmart, consider the following tips:

• Prepare an Impressive Resume: Highlight any prior experience with animals, customer service, or retail. PetSmart values relevant experience, so be sure to showcase any skills that align with the job role.
• Show Enthusiasm for Pets: Demonstrate your passion during interviews, especially for roles involving animal care. Being able to talk about why you love pets and how you can help care for them at PetSmart can make a significant impact.
• Dress Professionally: Business casual attire is recommended for interviews and store visits. First impressions matter, and dressing appropriately shows your seriousness about the position.
• Complete the Online Application: PetSmart primarily accepts applications through its online portal. Be prepared for possible background and drug screenings, which are common for roles involving live animals.

Benefits of Working at PetSmart

Employees working full-time (over 36 hours per week) are eligible for a range of benefits, including:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plans: Enrollment in 401(k) plans for financial security.
• Paid Time Off: Vacations, holidays, and sick days.

Some benefits may extend to immediate family members, making PetSmart an attractive employer for those seeking stability and growth opportunities. These benefits not only provide financial security but also support a healthy work-life balance, contributing to employee satisfaction and retention.

Conclusion

PetSmart is an excellent place to work for animal enthusiasts and individuals seeking diverse career opportunities. By understanding the age requirements, available positions, and application process, you can confidently pursue a role that aligns with your interests and skills. With its commitment to employee development, competitive pay, and a passion for pets, PetSmart offers a fulfilling work environment for those who meet its criteria. If you’re ready to start your journey with PetSmart, apply online and take the first step toward a rewarding career!

Daniel Calugar

Daniel Calugar is an experienced investor with a background in business, law, and computer science. As a tech enthusiast, he became interested in computer science and pursued it before obtaining business and law degrees. Dan developed a passion for finance while working as a pension lawyer. He leveraged his technical skills to build computer programs that would analyze vast amounts of data and explore trading strategies to identify more worthwhile investments.