Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Stephanie Pontarelli

Bolingbrook

Summary

Hardworking and compassionate professional with experience in healthcare and animal care. Driven by a deep empathy and a commitment to the well-being of all living beings. I thrive in both leadership roles and team environments, bringing strong management and team-building skills to every position. Highly adaptable and motivated, I embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and I continuously seek out new skills to better serve any role I take on. Passionate about making a positive impact, I strive to uplift those around me and contribute to a supportive, growth-oriented workplace.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Grooming Salon Manager

Pet Supplies Plus
Bolingbrook
03.2024 - Current
  • Managed daily operations of grooming salon, ensuring efficient workflow and client satisfaction.
  • Supervised grooming staff, providing training and support to enhance performance and skills.
  • Trained new employees in proper techniques for providing quality pet care services.
  • Recruited new staff members by conducting interviews and selecting qualified applicants for open positions.
  • Managed daily operations of the grooming salon including scheduling appointments, ordering supplies, and managing employees.
  • Monitored inventory levels of shampoo, conditioner, nail clippers, brushes, ensuring adequate stock is available at all times.
  • Conducted regular staff meetings to ensure team was up-to-date on new products, services, and policies.
  • Oversaw a team of groomers to maintain high service standards.
  • Implemented inventory management systems for grooming supplies and products.
  • Resolved customer inquiries and complaints effectively and professionally.
  • Coordinated marketing initiatives to promote grooming services within the community.
  • Developed grooming protocols to enhance customer satisfaction and safety measures.
  • Conducted performance evaluations to support staff development and improvement efforts.
  • Completed owner paperwork and obtained information regarding possible allergies, potential aggressive behavior, preferred food type and owner contact details.
  • Maintained accurate records of all pets groomed, including breed type, age, size.
  • Provided recommendations to customers regarding products that would best suit their pet's needs.
  • Developed and implemented grooming policies and procedures.
  • Scheduled appointments for customers and provided estimates for services rendered.
  • Ordered supplies necessary for the daily operation of the salon such as shampoo, conditioner, brushes.
  • Monitored daily operations of the grooming salon to ensure quality standards were met.
  • Ensured compliance with all health codes related to animal care and safety regulations.
  • Reviewed monthly financial statements to track expenses associated with running the grooming salon.
  • Conducted training sessions to educate staff on proper pet handling techniques.
  • Collaborated with other departments within the company to ensure smooth operations of the salon.
  • Scheduled employees and oversaw customer appointment calendar.
  • Assisted grooming staff with nail clipping, blow-drying and combing during peak hours and holidays.
  • Evaluated and improved team and individual performance.
  • Remained calm and professional in stressful circumstances and effectively diffused tense situations.
  • Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
  • Completed thorough opening, closing, and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
  • Recruited and trained new employees to meet job requirements.
  • Reviewed employee performance and provided ongoing feedback and coaching to drive performance improvement.
  • Interviewed prospective employees and provided input to HR on hiring decisions.
  • Maintained cleanliness of grooming area and equipment daily.
  • Groomed dogs using clippers, scissors, and bathing tools.
  • Assisted clients with breed-specific grooming requirements and recommendations.
  • Handled anxious dogs to ensure a calm grooming experience.
  • Monitored dogs for signs of skin issues or health concerns during grooming.
  • Educated pet owners on proper coat care and maintenance techniques.
  • Collaborated with team members to improve grooming processes and efficiency.
  • Bathed and dried dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
  • Cleaned ears, trimmed nails, plucked hair from ear canals, and brushed teeth.
  • Ensured safety of animals at all times by following established safety protocols.
  • Developed long-term relationships with clients and bonded with animals through regular contact.
  • Supported animal health by keeping areas clean, neat and properly sanitized.
  • Cleaned and disinfected kennels and common areas to reduce spread of illness from infected animals.
  • Maintained cleanliness of work areas by sanitizing equipment after each use.
  • Developed positive relationships with clients to ensure repeat business opportunities.
  • Kept detailed records of services performed for each animal client.
  • Scheduled appointments for clients using online software programs.
  • Provided customers with information on proper dog grooming techniques and pet health care advice.
  • Bathed large number of animals during each shift.
  • Ordered additional supplies as needed to maintain adequate stock levels.
  • Monitored inventory levels of supplies necessary to perform grooming services.
  • Kept dogs safe by remaining alert to environmental conditions and nearby animals.
  • Created consistent workflows by assisting with washing, drying and folding duties.
  • Calculated payments by keeping accurate daily log of time spent with dogs, detailing activities and services provided.
  • Educated customers on proper dog nutrition habits to promote overall pet health.
  • Supervised apprentice groomers during daily operations.
  • Performed minor medical procedures such as gland expression and flea treatments.

Paraprofessional

The Stepping Stone Group
Plainfield
04.2023 - 05.2024
  • Assisted in classroom management and maintained a positive learning environment.
  • Provided one-on-one support to students with special needs during lessons.
  • Prepared educational materials and resources for classroom activities and lessons.
  • Monitored student progress and reported observations to teaching staff regularly.
  • Applied positive reinforcement to redirect negative behaviors.
  • Provided guidance to students in the classroom setting.
  • Supported students throughout academic instruction and assignments.
  • Helped implement behavior management strategies for individual students.
  • Assisted teachers with planning and preparing lessons for students.
  • Supervised small groups of students during instruction time.
  • Ensured that all safety regulations were followed in the classroom environment.
  • Assisted children at stations during small-group learning periods.
  • Observed students to help teachers identify potential learning blocks and opportunities for support.
  • Communicated and collaborated well with educators from various grade levels.
  • Collaborated with special education staff to develop Individualized Education Plans.
  • Handled clerical duties, managed classrooms, and coordinated documents for teachers.
  • Monitored student attendance records and reported any discrepancies to appropriate personnel.
  • Graded assignments and tests and documented results into filing systems.
  • Assisted with the organization and implementation of classroom projects and events.
  • Supported classroom teacher with daily instruction and management of student activities.
  • Guided students in developing organizational and study skills.
  • Distributed tests and collected homework assignments after completion.
  • Supervised lunchroom activities to ensure a safe and orderly environment.
  • Monitored student behavior and enforced school policies consistently.
  • Communicated with teachers about student concerns during lunch periods.
  • Monitored student behavior in the cafeteria during meal times.
  • Circulated throughout lunchroom, connecting with students, resolving conflicts and helping young or disabled students open meal packets.
  • Monitored use of condiments, utensils and beverages.
  • Adhered to dietary restrictions and allergies when preparing and serving meals.
  • Assisted students in boarding and disembarking from buses efficiently.
  • Protected students from physical and verbal bullying.
  • Communicated with bus drivers, teachers and guardians regarding problems or incidents impacting student riders.
  • Supervised safe and orderly entry and exit of bus riders and physically assisted those with special needs.
  • Assisted clients in daily activities such as bathing, dressing and grooming.
  • Monitored dietary intake of clients to ensure proper nutrition was maintained.
  • Supplied one-on-one attention to each student during group activities.
  • Provided direct one-on-one support to students with disabilities in an educational setting.

Paraprofessional/Life Skills Trainer

Sevita
Mount Prospect
04.2019 - 12.2023
  • Supported individuals with developmental disabilities in daily living activities.
  • Assisted in implementing individualized care plans for optimal support.
  • Maintained accurate documentation of client progress and activities.
  • Engaged clients in recreational activities to enhance social interaction.
  • Monitored client behavior and reported any changes to supervisors promptly.
  • Administered medication as directed by healthcare professionals when needed.
  • Provided guidance to students in the classroom setting.
  • Supported students throughout academic instruction and assignments.
  • Offered students personalized educational, behavioral, and emotional support.
  • Planned and led activities to develop students' physical, emotional and social growth.
  • Reminded patients to take prescribed medications or nutritional supplements.
  • Provided emotional support to participants during difficult times of transition or adjustment.
  • Counseled individuals struggling with mental health issues like depression or anxiety.
  • Maintained detailed records of all client interactions including assessments, evaluations, treatment plans, progress reports.
  • Organized field trips for participants to explore job opportunities and gain practical experience in a professional environment.
  • Developed and implemented training courses to teach life skills such as communication, problem-solving, goal setting, decision making, coping with stress, and time management.
  • Managed classroom environment and monitored behavior to keep individuals safe.
  • Assisted with the organization and implementation of classroom projects and events.
  • Participated in IEP meetings and contributed to the development of educational plans.
  • Supported classroom teacher with daily instruction and management of student activities.
  • Supervised small groups of students during instruction time.
  • Helped implement behavior management strategies for individual students.
  • Created and maintained positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
  • Provided immediate crisis support to individuals in distress situations.
  • Conducted initial assessments to determine immediate safety and mental health needs of clients in crisis.
  • Facilitated de-escalation techniques to reduce the intensity of clients' emotional distress.
  • Coordinated with healthcare providers, law enforcement, and other agencies to ensure comprehensive support for clients.
  • Responded to emergency calls from individuals experiencing psychological distress.
  • Monitored medication compliance and reported any concerns regarding side effects or drug interactions to physicians, nurses, psychiatrists.
  • Coordinated transportation for appointments or recreational activities for clients who lacked access to reliable transportation options.
  • Actively participated in professional development opportunities related to crisis interventions.

Caretaker

Care For Soul
Bolingbrook
07.2022 - 11.2022
  • Assisted clients with daily living activities, promoting independence and dignity.
  • Maintained a clean and safe environment for residents through regular housekeeping tasks.
  • Monitored client well-being and reported changes to appropriate staff members.
  • Organized recreational activities to enhance social engagement among residents.
  • Cleaned windows, walls, ceilings, carpets, floors, bathrooms, kitchens. using appropriate cleaning supplies.
  • Followed established safety procedures while performing all tasks related to caretaking duties.
  • Provided assistance to disabled persons in accordance with their individual needs.
  • Adhered to all applicable laws and regulations pertaining to health and safety standards in the workplace.
  • Provided basic care to resident animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercising.
  • Disposed of hazardous materials according to established guidelines.
  • Sanitized and cleaned sinks, mirrors, toilets and showers.
  • Performed light housekeeping duties including laundry and meal preparation.
  • Created strategies for staff training and development related to memory care services.
  • Developed and implemented programs to improve memory care services.
  • Evaluated and managed patients' health care needs, including physical examinations, diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses.
  • Supported bathing, dressing and personal care needs.
  • Improved patient outlook and daily living through compassionate care.
  • Prepared meals according to dietary requirements and assisted with feeding when necessary.
  • Provided companionship for elderly clients by engaging in conversation and participating in recreational activities.
  • Observed patients for changes in physical, emotional, mental or behavioral condition and injuries.
  • Provided emotional support for clients who were experiencing depression or anxiety due to their illness or disability.
  • Administered prescribed medications on a timely basis following care plan instructions.
  • Followed care plan and directions to administer medications.
  • Assisted with ambulation by providing support during transfers from bed to chair or wheelchair.
  • Observed changes in behavior or physical condition that may require medical attention and reported them promptly to supervisor.
  • Helped maintain the safety of the client's environment by removing hazards such as rugs or furniture that could cause falls.
  • Aided with mobility and independence for disabled individuals and continually monitored safety.
  • Followed safe lifting and transferring techniques to transport residents.
  • Drove clients to shop for groceries, attend doctor appointments and run errands.
  • Transported clients to doctor appointments and other errands using wheelchair accessible vehicles.
  • Ensured compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and standards governing home health care services.

Dog Groomer

Petco Animal Supplies Stores Inc.
North Riverside
02.2018 - 04.2021
  • Groomed dogs using clippers, scissors, and bathing tools.
  • Maintained cleanliness of grooming area and equipment daily.
  • Assisted clients with breed-specific grooming requirements and recommendations.
  • Handled anxious dogs to ensure a calm grooming experience.
  • Applied shampoos and conditioners suitable for various dog coats.
  • Monitored dogs for signs of skin issues or health concerns during grooming.
  • Educated pet owners on proper coat care and maintenance techniques.
  • Collaborated with team members to improve grooming processes and efficiency.
  • Cleaned ears, trimmed nails, plucked hair from ear canals, and brushed teeth.
  • Bathed and dried dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
  • Used scissors to trim fur around the face, feet, and tail area in accordance with breed standards or customer requests.
  • Ensured safety of animals at all times by following established safety protocols.
  • Developed long-term relationships with clients and bonded with animals through regular contact.
  • Supported animal health by keeping areas clean, neat and properly sanitized.
  • Maintained cleanliness of work areas by sanitizing equipment after each use.
  • Cleaned and disinfected kennels and common areas to reduce spread of illness from infected animals.
  • Kept detailed records of services performed for each animal client.
  • Scheduled appointments for clients using online software programs.
  • Provided customers with information on proper dog grooming techniques and pet health care advice.
  • Assisted grooming staff with nail clipping, blow-drying and combing during peak hours and holidays.
  • Bathed large number of animals during each shift.
  • Created consistent workflows by assisting with washing, drying and folding duties.
  • Kept dogs safe by remaining alert to environmental conditions and nearby animals.
  • Attended training seminars or conferences related to pet care industry topics.
  • Completed owner paperwork and obtained information regarding possible allergies, potential aggressive behavior, preferred food type and owner contact details.
  • Educated customers on proper dog nutrition habits to promote overall pet health.
  • Performed minor medical procedures such as gland expression and flea treatments.
  • Adhered to pet care plans, medication requirements and dietary restrictions as part of quality care.

Dog Groomer

Tucker Pup's Pet Resort
Chicago
01.2017 - 04.2018
  • Groomed dogs using clippers, scissors, and bathing tools.
  • Maintained cleanliness of grooming area and equipment daily.
  • Assisted clients with breed-specific grooming requirements and recommendations.
  • Handled anxious dogs to ensure a calm grooming experience.
  • Applied shampoos and conditioners suitable for various dog coats.
  • Monitored dogs for signs of skin issues or health concerns during grooming.
  • Educated pet owners on proper coat care and maintenance techniques.
  • Collaborated with team members to improve grooming processes and efficiency.
  • Cleaned ears, trimmed nails, plucked hair from ear canals, and brushed teeth.
  • Bathed and dried dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
  • Used scissors to trim fur around the face, feet, and tail area in accordance with breed standards or customer requests.
  • Ensured safety of animals at all times by following established safety protocols.
  • Developed long-term relationships with clients and bonded with animals through regular contact.
  • Supported animal health by keeping areas clean, neat and properly sanitized.
  • Maintained cleanliness of work areas by sanitizing equipment after each use.
  • Cleaned and disinfected kennels and common areas to reduce spread of illness from infected animals.
  • Kept detailed records of services performed for each animal client.
  • Provided customers with information on proper dog grooming techniques and pet health care advice.
  • Assisted grooming staff with nail clipping, blow-drying and combing during peak hours and holidays.
  • Assisted in resolving any customer complaints or concerns efficiently and professionally.
  • Bathed large number of animals during each shift.
  • Monitored inventory levels of supplies necessary to perform grooming services.
  • Created consistent workflows by assisting with washing, drying and folding duties.
  • Kept dogs safe by remaining alert to environmental conditions and nearby animals.
  • Completed owner paperwork and obtained information regarding possible allergies, potential aggressive behavior, preferred food type and owner contact details.
  • Walked dogs while enforcing good behavior and manners.
  • Performed minor medical procedures such as gland expression and flea treatments.
  • Maintained clean and orderly play yards, kennels and cages.
  • Played with dogs and cats to maintain socialization and reduce stress.
  • Assisted with grooming tasks such as bathing, brushing, and nail trimming.

Grooming Salon Manager

Petco Animal Supplies Stores Inc.
North Aurora
09.2015 - 02.2017
  • Performed grooming tasks including bathing, brushing, and nail trimming for various dog breeds.
  • Maintained cleanliness of grooming area and sanitized tools after each use.
  • Educated clients on breed-specific grooming techniques and proper pet care practices.
  • Supervised grooming staff and provided training to enhance performance and skills.
  • Managed daily operations of grooming salon, ensuring efficient workflows and client satisfaction.
  • Monitored dogs for health concerns during grooming and documented findings for veterinarian review.
  • Coordinated appointment scheduling using online software to optimize client flow.
  • Developed promotional strategies to increase visibility and attract new clients.

Cashier/Cleaner/Cook

Five Guys Burger And Fries
Berwyn
08.2012 - 01.2014
  • Processed customer transactions efficiently at a busy burger and fries restaurant.
  • Handled cash and electronic payments accurately with a point-of-sale system.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries and resolving issues.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of the front counter and dining area.
  • Assisted team members during peak hours to ensure smooth operations.
  • Managed inventory levels by restocking supplies as needed throughout shifts.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to ensure timely order fulfillment for customers.
  • Operated cash register efficiently and accurately, processed payments by cash, check, credit card, gift card or automatic debit.
  • Accepted cash and credit card payments, issued receipts and provided change.
  • Performed other duties as assigned by management.
  • Greeted customers and answered any questions they had about the store's products and services.
  • Maintained cleanliness of checkout area including countertops, registers, windowsills and floors.
  • Stocked shelves with merchandise when needed.
  • Issued receipts, refunds, credits or change due to customers.
  • Answered customer questions and provided store information.
  • Worked closely with front-end staff to assist customers.
  • Completed daily recovery tasks to keep areas clean and neat for maximum productivity.
  • Learned roles of other departments to provide coverage and keep store operational.
  • Preserved appearance of store by arranging and replenishing displays and merchandise racks.
  • Directed trash removal and sanitation procedures to keep aisles and register area organized.
  • Resolved customer complaints professionally in accordance with company policy.
  • Operated kitchen equipment in alignment with OSHA protocols and manufacturer instructions.
  • Memorized new menu items and ingredients quickly to help customers select items meeting needs and preferences.
  • Handled advanced thawing and food pre-preparation for upcoming meals.
  • Monitored temperatures of prepared food and cold-storage areas.
  • Checked completed orders for correct quantity and quality.
  • Sanitized workstation at end of shift to minimize risk of salmonella and other food-borne illnesses.
  • Set up work stations prior to opening to minimize prep time.
  • Interacted with waitstaff regarding special orders for customers with food allergies and gluten intolerance.
  • Coordinated with wait staff to ensure timely delivery of meals to customers.
  • Set up and performed initial prep work for soups, sauces, and salads.
  • Carried pans and trays of food to and from work stations, stove, and refrigerator.
  • Maintained safe operations of food prep equipment to reduce complications and retain safety procedures.
  • Operated ovens, fryers and mixers safely to prevent kitchen accidents and machinery malfunction.
  • Wrapped, dated and labeled food items in storage for safety and freshness.
  • Prepared dishes in fast-paced environment working with teammates to maintain high customer satisfaction rate.
  • Operated grills, fryers and broilers to cook items to quality guidelines.
  • Maintained a clean working environment by sweeping, mopping floors, washing surfaces and emptying trash cans.
  • Cleaned kitchen equipment, surfaces, utensils and dishes.
  • Monitored food safety standards during food preparation and storage.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
  • Prepared fresh ingredients for burgers and fries daily.
  • Cooked menu items according to established recipes and procedures.
  • Maintained cleanliness of workstations and kitchen equipment consistently.
  • Pulled chewing gum from undersides of tables, desks, chairs and various other fixtures, discarding gum and sanitizing area.
  • Followed chemical cleaner and power equipment procedures to prevent damage to floors and fixtures.
  • Handled, mixed and stored chemical cleaners in compliance with safety requirements and standard operating procedures.
  • Completed deep-cleaning floor buffing, carpet cleaning, duct cleaning and wall washing.
  • Followed company uniform, performance and security policies with every job.
  • Emptied trash cans and replaced liners as needed.
  • Cleaned building floors by sweeping, mopping or vacuuming.
  • Complied with health regulations related to the handling of hazardous chemicals used during cleaning processes.
  • Emptied wastebaskets to transport trash and waste to proper disposal areas.
  • Inspected rooms for cleanliness prior to guest arrival.
  • Responded promptly to all customer complaints regarding cleanliness issues.
  • Emptied wastebaskets and replaced liners.
  • Polished furniture to remove dust and dirt buildup.
  • Stocked supplies such as soap, toilet paper, and paper towels in restrooms.
  • Transported trash bags to designated disposal areas.
  • Vacuumed carpeted areas and mopped solid surfaces with proper chemical solutions.
  • Disinfected doorknobs, light switches, telephones, computers, desks and other high-touch surfaces.
  • Sanitized frequented areas and equipment using approved supplies.
  • Maintained cleaning equipment and materials in a safe and sanitary working condition.
  • Cleaned windows, glass partitions and mirrors with cleaners and sponges.
  • Collected trash from floors within hallways, bathrooms and work areas.
  • Swept and mopped floors, vacuumed carpets, and dusted surfaces.
  • Communicated effectively with team members to coordinate cleaning schedules during peak hours.

Education

High School Diploma -

J Sterling Morton East
Cicero, IL
08-2012

Education

Trinity Christian College
Palos Heights, IL

Skills

  • Staff management
  • Health and safety regulations
  • Performance evaluations
  • Task delegation
  • Conflict resolution
  • Team collaboration
  • Effective communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Problem solving
  • Behavior management
  • Crisis intervention
  • Safety protocols adherence
  • Training and development
  • Patience and tact
  • Patient care
  • Pet care and management
  • Team building
  • Behavioral support
  • Record keeping
  • Client relationship management
  • Customer service
  • Safety compliance
  • Staff training
  • Pet care needs
  • Pet care support
  • Classroom management
  • Individualized education plans
  • Behavior management strategies
  • Special needs support
  • Data documentation and reporting
  • Crisis intervention techniques
  • Heavy lifting
  • Special needs
  • Life skills development
  • Skill building
  • Care plan implementation
  • Animal safety protocols
  • Team supervision
  • Incident reporting
  • Problem-solving
  • Documentation
  • Compassionate communication
  • Housekeeping
  • Dependable and responsible
  • Scheduling appointments
  • Medicine Dispensing
  • Staff supervision
  • Customer relationship management
  • Coaching and mentoring
  • Safety procedures
  • Shift scheduling
  • Pet grooming techniques
  • Health and safety compliance
  • Life skills training
  • Special education support
  • Goal setting and monitoring
  • Social-emotional support
  • Care plan adherence
  • Medication administration
  • Pet grooming
  • Performance evaluation
  • Relationship building
  • Records maintenance
  • Client transportation
  • Medical records management
  • HIPAA compliance
  • Medication and appointment reminders
  • Behavioral management
  • First aid and safety
  • Strong ethics
  • Basic housekeeping
  • At-home care instruction
  • Compassionate care
  • Complex Problem-solving
  • Animal health monitoring
  • Analytical and critical thinking
  • Supervision and leadership

Timeline

Grooming Salon Manager

Pet Supplies Plus
03.2024 - Current

Paraprofessional

The Stepping Stone Group
04.2023 - 05.2024

Caretaker

Care For Soul
07.2022 - 11.2022

Paraprofessional/Life Skills Trainer

Sevita
04.2019 - 12.2023

Dog Groomer

Petco Animal Supplies Stores Inc.
02.2018 - 04.2021

Dog Groomer

Tucker Pup's Pet Resort
01.2017 - 04.2018

Grooming Salon Manager

Petco Animal Supplies Stores Inc.
09.2015 - 02.2017

Cashier/Cleaner/Cook

Five Guys Burger And Fries
08.2012 - 01.2014

High School Diploma -

J Sterling Morton East

Education

Trinity Christian College

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