ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animal Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aequor

Qualifications BS/BA with 2+ years Experience in laboratory animal training and rodents Knowledge of regulations (The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals) Strong professional ...

New

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

Primary duties include feeding exotic animals, observing and documenting animal behavior, answering questions from the public, assisting with presentations, animal training, performing maintenance in ...

System One

Comparative Medicine Trainer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$23 - $28.95/hr

Manage training colonies and maintain animal and training records. * Collaborate with research units to develop new procedures under guidance of global training leadership. Requirements * BS/BA with ...

New

fwzoo

Animal Programs Swing Keeper

Fort Worth, TX

... the training of assigned animals; guide animals through daily routines according to established training schedules and guidelines • Carry out animal diet directives from Nutritional Services ...

Synectics Inc

Comparative Medicine Trainer

Cambridge, MA

$23.99 - $30.42/hr

Experience in laboratory animal training and rodents * Knowledge of regulations (The Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals) * Strong professional communication skills and language skills ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimal Trainer Jobs

Animal Trainer information

See salary details

$12

$16

$31

How much do animal trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal trainer in the United States is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $14.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animal Trainer position, and why are they important?

Animal Trainers need a solid understanding of animal behavior, patience, and physical stamina, often supported by relevant courses or hands-on experience with specific species. They commonly use tools like leashes, clickers, training gear, and may benefit from certifications such as Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT) or animal handling courses. Strong observation skills, clear communication, and compassion are vital soft skills, especially when interacting with animals, owners, or other handlers. These qualities ensure the safety and well-being of animals, support effective training outcomes, and help build trust with clients and colleagues.

How much do you make as an animal trainer?

Animal trainers typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the type of animals trained. Salaries can be higher for those working with specialized animals or in entertainment industries, and certifications or advanced skills may lead to higher pay.

How do you become an animal trainer?

To become an animal trainer, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, experience working with animals, and knowledge of animal behavior. Many trainers gain skills through internships, volunteering, or certification programs offered by organizations like the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. Strong communication skills and patience are essential for training animals effectively.

What does a typical day look like for an Animal Trainer?

A typical day for an Animal Trainer involves conducting training sessions with animals, assessing their progress, and developing customized training plans based on each animal's needs and temperament. Trainers often spend time demonstrating techniques to animal owners or other staff members, as well as recording progress and addressing behavioral issues. Work may take place in a variety of settings including homes, animal shelters, zoos, or training facilities, and schedules can include weekends or evenings. Collaborating with veterinarians, keepers, or animal behaviorists is common, ensuring each animal receives comprehensive care and training support.

What does an Animal Trainer do?

An Animal Trainer works with animals to teach them specific behaviors, improve obedience, or prepare them for performance, service, or companionship. They use positive reinforcement, conditioning, and training techniques to help animals respond to commands. Trainers may work with pets, service animals, marine mammals, or animals used in entertainment. Their responsibilities often include assessing animal behavior, developing training plans, and ensuring the animals' well-being.

What kind of dog trainers make the most money?

Experienced dog trainers who specialize in advanced obedience, behavior modification, or training service and therapy dogs tend to earn higher salaries. Those with certifications, a strong reputation, and working in affluent areas or with high-profile clients often command higher pay. Additionally, trainers who own their businesses or work in private settings typically have greater earning potential.

Can I make a living as a dog trainer?

Animal trainers, including dog trainers, can earn a living through client sessions, group classes, and training facilities. Income varies based on experience, specialization, location, and whether they are self-employed or work for an organization; many trainers also pursue certifications to enhance credibility and earning potential.
More about Animal Trainer jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Trainer jobs? Cities with the most Animal Trainer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Trainer jobs? The most popular types of Animal Trainer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Animal Trainer jobs? The top employers for Animal Trainer jobs are:
What states have the most Animal Trainer jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Trainer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Animal Trainer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Trainer jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Trainer jobs? For Animal Trainer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Animal Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Trainer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,875 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Animal Ambassador Trainer 1

zoOceanarium Group

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
To educate, entertain and inspire our guests throughout their Aquarium experience while working with our Ambassador animals. This role will also include the care and wellbeing of all animals under the facility's care; maintenance of all habitats; and positive team approach within the Life Sciences Department.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Undertake daily operations within the Life Sciences Department to ensure highest level of safety, courtesy, education, efficiency and operational readiness at all times.
  • Manage animal and guest interactions to ensure a safe and positive experience for everyone.
  • Strive to achieve customer satisfaction KPIs in order to meet and exceed guest expectations.
  • Educate, entertain and inspire guests throughout their Aquarium journey.
  • Manage guest experience and flow to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
  • Maintain positive representation to professional agencies, institutions and various committees.
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety standards in accordance with local municipality, state and federal rules and regulations.
  • Ensure animal care and presentations meet compliance of company and facility specific policies and procedures.
  • Provide animal care and ensure habitats meet compliance of facility specific policies and procedures.
  • Perform duties in order to reduce loss/waste, control costs and accurately communicate expenses.
  • Maintain up-to-date electronic records on animal health, water quality, system maintenance, system checks and stock reports.
  • Ensure compliance of all policy and procedure documents.
  • Assist in emergency situations to minimize damage, loss or injury to guests, team members, animals or company property.
  • In collaboration with Guest Experience Department and the Aquarium Foundation, ensure habitats and programs engage, educate and entertain diverse audiences.
  • Work closely with the Aquarium Foundation to ensure volunteers and educators provide exemplary guest service and engagement.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Experience, Skills & Qualifications:
  • One year + experience with animal husbandry required.
  • Background in fresh and saltwater aquariums, reptiles, amphibians, birds or small mammals preferred.
  • Animal training experience preferred.
  • Experience in the care of flora and fauna present in a public aquarium setting preferred.
  • Competency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong listening, presentation and decision-making skills.

Apply