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Animal Training Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

UAB NOVA RENT

ANIMAL LABORATORY SPECIALIST I

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $25.20/hr

... training, cage wash, quarantine, comparative pathology laboratory, and special projects. Provides animal care and operational support consistent with requirements and established guidelines for the ...

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Animal Training information

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$9

$16

$24

How much do animal training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal training in Alabama is $16.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $18.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

How do you become an animal trainer?

To become an animal trainer, individuals typically gain experience by volunteering or working with animals, and may pursue relevant education such as a degree in animal science, biology, or a related field. Certification from professional organizations and developing skills in animal behavior, patience, and communication are also important for career advancement.

How much do you make as an animal trainer?

Animal trainers typically earn between $25,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of animals trained. Salaries can be higher for those working with specialized or exotic animals, and certifications or advanced skills may lead to increased pay.

What are the career paths for animal training?

Career paths for animal training include roles such as professional animal trainer, behaviorist, or trainer for specific animals like dogs, horses, or marine mammals. Opportunities exist in zoos, aquariums, pet training centers, and research facilities, often requiring certifications and hands-on experience. Advancement can lead to specialized training, management positions, or consulting roles in animal behavior and welfare.
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What job categories do people searching Animal Training jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Training jobs in Alabama are:

Animal Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Training job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,494 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Animal Care Supervisor

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Riverview Animal Clinic
See more jobs at Riverview Animal Clinicexternal

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Lead the Team That Cares for Our Patients
At Riverview Animal Clinic, our mission is simple: Exceptional Patient Care - for each client and patient, each and every time. We're looking for an experienced, compassionate, and organized Animal Care Supervisor to lead our Boarding & Animal Care team and help us live that mission every day.
If you're someone who loves animals, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and knows how to bring out the best in a team - we'd love to meet you.
What You'll Do
As Animal Care Supervisor, you'll be the operational heart of our boarding department, leading a team of kennel attendants while rolling up your sleeves right alongside them. Your day-to-day will include:
  • Leading your team - scheduling, training, coaching, and building a culture of professionalism and compassion
  • Caring for our patients - overseeing feeding, medications, enrichment, and monitoring for every animal in our care
  • Keeping things running smoothly - managing SOPs, supply inventory, sanitation protocols, and facility upkeep to AAHA standards
  • Serving our clients - being a trusted point of contact during check-in, check-out, and everything in between
  • Thinking ahead - preplanning for high-volume periods, identifying workflow improvements, and keeping the team efficient and prepared

What We're Looking For
Required:
  • 1-2 years of experience in a kennel, veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or similar setting
  • At least 1 year in a supervisory or management role (hospitality/hotel leadership experience considered)
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Strong communication skills and sound judgment around animal behavior and safety
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs independently and safely handle animals of all sizes and temperaments

Preferred (not required):
  • Fear Free or low-stress handling certification
  • Experience developing SOPs or training materials
  • Familiarity with veterinary practice management platforms
  • Post-secondary coursework in animal science, vet tech, business, or hospitality

Schedule & What to Expect
This is a working supervisory role - you'll be in the mix with your team every shift. The schedule includes:
  • Saturday availability (required)
  • Rotating Sunday and holiday shifts shared equitably with the team
  • Possible early morning or evening shifts based on boarding needs

Why Riverview?
We're a team that leads with compassion, communicates honestly, and takes genuine pride in the care we provide. You'll work alongside a collaborative veterinary medical team and practice leadership that supports your growth and values your leadership.
Ready to join us? Apply today and bring your passion for animals and people to a team that shares it.
Riverview Animal Clinic is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply