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Animal Training Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Georgia Aquarium

Senior Trainer, Pinniped

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Associate Curator, Animal Training - Pinnipeds Position Summary : Under the direction of section supervisors, this position plays leadership role in the execution and management of animal training ...

Andrus Childrens Center

Animal Caretaker

Yonkers, NY · On-site

$50K/yr

Maintain proper records of health, medications, behavior, enrichment, training, welfare and visitor ... Maintains animal barns by cleaning daily, deep cleanings, organizing food storage and inventory and ...

Pasado's Safe Haven

Animal Caregiver

Monroe, WA · On-site

Actively participate in volunteer training program: * Work collaboratively with volunteers to ... Work with Animal Training and Behavior Specialist on implementing behavior plans and tracking ...

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How much do animal training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal training in the United States is $18.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Animal Training Jobs?

Animal training jobs include a wide variety of positions, a few examples being dog trainers, horse trainers, agility instructors, or jobs training guide dogs and other service animals. In any of these careers, your duties and responsibilities may include teaching animals to behave and follow cues or signals for performances or completing a task for their owner. You may also teach the animals how to familiarize themselves with human voices and commands and monitor the animals’ health and mood. While many of the skills required for these jobs carry over from one to the other, they are very different careers with different qualifications.

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

To thrive as an Animal Trainer, you need a solid understanding of animal behavior, training techniques, and often a background in biology, zoology, or psychology. Familiarity with training tools, positive reinforcement methods, and sometimes certifications from organizations like the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT) are beneficial. Patience, strong observation skills, and clear communication are important soft skills for building trust with animals and collaborating with owners. These skills ensure effective training outcomes, safety, and positive relationships between animals and humans.

What are some common challenges animal trainers face when working with new animals, and how are they typically addressed?

Animal trainers often encounter challenges such as building trust, overcoming fear or anxiety in animals, and addressing behavioral issues. These challenges are typically managed through consistent positive reinforcement, patience, and gradual acclimation to new environments or routines. Trainers also collaborate closely with veterinarians, animal behaviorists, and owners to develop tailored training plans that prioritize the animal’s well-being and learning pace. Ongoing communication and observation are key to successfully addressing and adapting to each animal’s unique needs.

What is animal training?

Animal training involves teaching animals specific behaviors or responses to commands using various techniques, such as positive reinforcement, repetition, and consistency. Trainers work with a variety of animals including dogs, horses, marine mammals, and even exotic species, depending on the setting. The goal of animal training can range from basic obedience and companionship to specialized tasks like service work, performance, or assisting with research. Professional animal trainers need patience, a deep understanding of animal behavior, and strong communication skills. Training methods should always prioritize the animal's welfare and well-being.

What is the difference between Animal Training vs Animal Behavior Specialist?

AspectAnimal TrainingAnimal Behavior Specialist
CredentialsCertifications in training techniques, animal handlingAdvanced degrees in animal behavior, certifications in behavior analysis
Work EnvironmentZoological parks, pet training centers, aquariumsResearch facilities, veterinary clinics, animal behavior consulting
Employer & IndustryZoos, pet industry, entertainmentAcademic, research, veterinary, consulting

Animal Training focuses on teaching animals specific behaviors through conditioning, often for entertainment, obedience, or safety. Animal Behavior Specialists analyze and modify complex animal behaviors, often requiring advanced education. While both roles involve working with animals, Animal Training emphasizes practical skill development, whereas Animal Behavior Specialists focus on understanding and treating behavioral issues.

More about Animal Training jobs
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Animal Training jobs near you
Companion Animal Training Manager

Companion Animal Training Manager

Houston SPCA

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Companion Animal Training Manager

Primary Purpose:

We are seeking a skilled and passionate Dog Trainer to lead our canine training program and provide hands-on instruction to employees and volunteers. This role ensures that staff and volunteers are equipped with the knowledge, techniques, and confidence to effectively train and handle dogs in our care. The ideal candidate will combine expertise in positive reinforcement dog training with strong teaching and communication skills.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and implement training protocols for shelter dogs, focusing on obedience, behavior modification, and socialization.
  • Create and deliver training sessions for employees and volunteers on proper dog handling, behavior management, and training techniques.
  • Observe staff and volunteers during dog interactions, providing coaching, feedback, and guidance.
  • Evaluate dogs’ behavior and temperament, recommending appropriate training plans and documenting progress.
  • Collaborate with management to ensure training practices support organizational goals, safety standards, and adoption readiness.
  • Maintain accurate records of training sessions, dog progress, and staff/volunteer participation.
  • Stay updated on current animal behavior and training practices to continuously improve program effectiveness.
  • Support adoption counseling by providing training insights to help match dogs with suitable homes.

Qualifications:

  • Proven experience as a professional dog trainer, with emphasis on positive reinforcement methods.
  • Strong background in animal behavior and canine body language.
  • Excellent communication, coaching, and public speaking skills.
  • Ability to train, mentor, and inspire people with varying levels of dog-handling experience.
  • Patience, empathy, and a commitment to humane, force-free training practices.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with diverse teams.
  • Certification (such as CPDT-KA, CDBC, ACAAB, or equivalent) preferred but not required.

Work Environment:

  • Hands-on work with dogs of varying sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
  • Training sessions conducted indoors and outdoors.
  • May require lifting up to 50 lbs. and working in all weather conditions.

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