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Animal Training Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Animal Care Attendant

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$51K - $63K/yr

A. attendant, zoo attendant, 4-H or farm experience, or animal training experience. Note: If the word "experience" is referenced in the minimum qualifications, it means full-time paid experience ...

Animal Care Attendant

Norco, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $18.25/hr

Training & development * Wellness resources * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Paid time off ... POSITION SUMMARY At Animal Care Services, we believe exceptional pet care begins with an ...

Under direction of the Animal Resources Supervisor or assigned lead, the Animal Technician (AT) has experience, training and is capable of performing all duties within the scope of the for Assistant ...

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Animal Training information

See California salary details

$9

$18

$26

How much do animal training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal training in California is $18.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.14 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.

What cities in California are hiring for Animal Training jobs?

Cities in California with the most Animal Training job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Training job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,558 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Instructor in Animal Training and Management (Part-Time Pool)

Camarillo, CA • On-site

Ventura County Community College District
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

$58K - $76K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Instructor in Animal Training and Management (Part-Time Pool) at Ventura County Community College District Share on X Print Application Deadline 8/31/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Date Posted 3/4/2026 Contact VCCCD Human Resources Number of Openings Not Specified Salary Pay Range 2,007 - 3,108 Stipend Length of Work Year See Position Description Employment Type Part Time Job Description / Essential Elements: Print Instructor in Animal Training and Management (Part-Time Pool) Ventura County Community College District Salary: Job Type: Part-Time Faculty Job Number: 2025-00628 Location: Moorpark College (Moorpark CA), CA Department: MC - Student Learning Closing: Continuous Description WHAT YOU'LL DO Under the general direction of a dean, an Instructor (Non-Contact/Temporary) provides comprehensive classroom instruction to students from diverse backgrounds for the purpose of facilitating the attainment of their academic or vocational objectives. In accordance with the provisions of Education Code sections 87482.5, Instructors (Non-Contract/Temporary) may be employed up to 67% of a full-time assignment. We are accepting applications on an on-going basis for future consideration for part-time instructors in this discipline at Moorpark College

Applications submitted to this pool will be kept on file for the Summer 2025, Fall 2025, and Spring 2026 semesters and may be considered if a vacancy becomes available within the academic year. If you have applied to previous pools in this discipline, you will need to apply to this pool to continue to be considered. WHERE YOU'LL WORK Moorpark College, one of three colleges in the Ventura County Community College District, was founded in 1967.

It serves approximately 15,000 students, and with a "students first" philosophy, empowers its diverse community of learners to complete their goals for academic transfer, basic skills, and career education. Moorpark College is one of the most beautiful community colleges in California. Set on 150 acres, the campus is nestled in the foothills on the southeastern flank of Ventura County, about 40 miles from UCLA, and approximately 75 miles from UC Santa Barbara.

It is also a short drive from CSU Northridge, CSU Channel Islands, and California Lutheran University. Moorpark College was recognized as an Aspen Prize Finalist in 2023 and ranked fourth in the nation by the Aspen College Excellence Program. Known for transfer of students to public and private universities, Moorpark College has the highest number of Associate Degree for Transfers among California community colleges its size.

Moorpark College has the distinction of being recognized as a Champion of Higher Education by the Campaign for College Opportunity in each of the last five years. A Hispanic Serving Institution, it has an excellent reputation for preparing minority and economically disadvantaged students for university transfer and career success. Moorpark College's signature career/technical programs include nursing, radiation technology, biotechnology, and exotic animal training which incorporates the world-renowned Teaching Zoo.

The college also offers a dynamic range of classes and programs in the visual and performing arts, and its pristine athletic fields and mild climate provide an excellent home for our student athletes. Moorpark College has received numerous grants including a $2.9 million Department of Education Title V grant in 2020 for its Project STEM Impacto, which develops student cohorts in biology, biotechnology, and computer network systems engineering. Moorpark College student outcomes demonstrate that education inspires and and transforms communities

More information can be found on the https://www.moorparkcollege.edu/ WHO WE ARE The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) is a public community college district serving residents throughout Ventura County. VCCCD's three colleges - Moorpark College, Oxnard College, and Ventura College - offer programs for transfer to four-year colleges and universities; career technical training, basic skills instruction; as well as community service, economic development, and continuing education for cultural growth, life enrichment, and skills improvement. The Ventura County Community College District recognizes that a diverse community of faculty, staff, and administrators promotes academic excellence and creates an inclusive educational and work environment for its employees, contractors, students, and the community it serves

With the understanding that a diverse community fosters multi-cultural awareness, promotes mutual understanding and respect, and provides role models for all students, VCCCD is committed to recruiting and employing a diverse and qualified group of administrators, faculty, and staff members who are dedicated to the success of all college students. The Ventura County Community College District does not engage in any employment practice that discriminates against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, language, accent, immigration status, ancestry, national origin, political beliefs, age, gender, sex, religion, transgender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, and/or physical or mental disability. Representative Duties Provide academic instruction to students through lecture, lab, or performance courses; assess and develop cognitive abilities, communication skills, and higher order thinking skills among students through appropriate assignments and activities in one-on-one, classroom, and distance mediated instructional settings.

E Advise and instruct students regarding programs of study, other institutions of higher education, lifelong learning resources, and effective study skills; refer students to support services, programs, resources, and other professionals as appropriate. E Observe and evaluate student performance in meeting course objectives and student learning outcomes through assignments, projects, discussions, and examinations; provide feedback in a timely manner to student inquiries in class, online, or during established consultation office hours. E Plan and organize instruction according to approved course outlines and student learning outcomes to maximize student learning in alignment with department, college, and district goals; implement the student performance objectives as listed on the official course outline of record.

E Maintain current, accurate records of course enrollment, attendance, student academic progress, course curriculum, and student learning outcomes; prepare and submit data and reports related to course and student progress in a timely manner. E Evaluate and select instructional materials such as textbooks, manuals, software, and tools in collaboration, as appropriate, with discipline faculty; order instructional materials according to campus bookstore procedure to ensure timely delivery. E Revise and update course content and materials of instruction in accordance with new theory, application, and industry developments within the discipline or area of specialization.

E Update syllabi; collaborate with discipline faculty on a regular basis to assess and revise measurable student performance indicators for each course. E May participate in curriculum and program development; may provide input into the development of student learning outcomes. May attend and participate on committees and in department, division, campus, and district meetings.

May participate in articulation and matriculation related activities. May provide work direction to others. Perform related duties as assigned.

E = Essential Duties Minimum Qualifications Candidates must possess the minimum qualifications for the discipline as approved by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors and defined in the https://www.cccco.edu/-/media/CCCCO-Website/docs/report/19theditionminimumqualifications17a11y.pdf?la=en&hash=33A149A375F054C369D27426AEB3A2874752050A Any bachelor's degree or higher and two years of professional experience OR any associate degree and six years of professional experience OR the equivalent*; OR possession of a valid California Community College Teaching Credential appropriate to the discipline. Professional experience is required when the applicant possesses a master's degree. The professional experience required must be directly related to the faculty member's teaching assignment

All coursework must be from a recognized accredited college or university.If you have competed your education at an institution outside of the United States, please see the section below titled "Foreign Transcripts" for additional information. *EQUIVALENCY The Ventura County Community College District, in its desire to select outstanding faculty members from the largest possible pool of qualified applicants, recognizes the fact that candidates may attain expertise in a discipline through a variety of means. Certain combinations of education, experience and other accomplishments in the field may be judged by the District as equal to the stated minimum qualifications for this position

Candidates whose transcripts do not list the title of their degree exactly as listed above, but feel they possess such equivalent qualifications are encouraged to complete and submit the https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/departments/human-resources/supplemental_questionnaire_for_equivalency_03.05.15_0.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ with their application for review by the Districtwide Equivalency Committee. Example: Minimum Qualifications state: "Master's degree in agriculture". Candidate's transcripts state: "Master's degree in agricultural science"

Since the degree on the candidate's transcripts in the example do not EXACTLY MATCH the degree listed in the minimum qualifications section, this candidate MUST complete the https://www.vcccd.edu/sites/default/files/departments/human-resources/supplemental_questionnaire_for_equivalency_03.05.15_0.pdf https://get.adobe.com/reader/ in order to be considered. When completing the form, be sure to explain in detail how your qualifications are equivalent to the required minimum qualifications. Do not assume that you do not need to submit a Supplemental Questionnaire for Equivalency because your degree is similar to a degree stated in the minimum qualifications

Degree titles that are not an exact match will not be considered outside of the equivalency process. The equivalency review is an independent process for district wide disciplines that is separate from the recruitment process to fill a vacancy. A subcommittee of discipline experts that is coordinated by an Academic Senate President will review the equivalency materials and make a recommendation as to whether or not the applicant demonstrated they have qualifications that are equivalent to those shown in the minimum qualifications section of the job posting.

For disciplines that are unique to a specific campus the equivalency may be done by the hiring committee along with an Academic Senate President. Please be aware that the hiring committee may not be able to wait for the results from the equivalency review due to various time constraints and may need to move forward with the recruitment process. For further details regarding equivalency and the criteria by which equivalency may be granted, please review https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/vcccd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=83LDBP0DD9E5 and https://go.boarddocs.com/ca/vcccd/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=88NT6K75D7D6

Supplemental Information SELECTION PROCESS If a vacancy in this discipline becomes available at one of the campuses, the applications in this pool will be reviewed by the hiring department. Only complete application packets that include the required documents and that meet the minimum qualifications (or that have been determined to possess equivalent qualifications) will be reviewed. The candidates deemed most qualified for the position will be invited to an interview.

When completing the application and the supplemental questions, it is important to outline in detail your education, training (classes, seminars, workshops), and experience. You will be evaluated based upon the information provided. APPLICATION PROCEDURE If you need assistance using the online application system please contact the GovernmentJobs.com applicant support line at (855) 524-5627 between the hours of 6 AM to 5 PM, Pacific Time, Monday through Friday

All applicants, including previous and current VCCCD employees, must submit the following documents with their application in order to be considered. Please be aware that the hiring committee will NOT have access to materials kept in District personnel files, such as transcripts, and such materials will not be considered unless they are included in your application packet. All required documents must be submitted by the applicant.

You may submit a new application once every 24 hours, but it must have all of the attachments as listed below. Failure to submit these materials may result in disqualification. Please note that only the most recent application submitted will be considered.

1. A completed Ventura County Community College District/GovernmentJobs.com Employment Application. All sections of the application must be filled out

Resumes are not a substitute for completing the "Work Experience" section of the employment application. 2. Cover Letter.

The cover letter of must include the following: A) the date, your name, and the position and locations for which you are applying, B) address your sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, social, economic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, and C) provide the screening committee with an understanding of how you will contribute as a fully participating member of the VCCCD community. 3. Resume 4.

Letters of recommendation (recommended, not required) If you choose to submit letters of recommendation, they should be uploaded with your application materials. We will not accept confidential letters of recommendation. 5.

Supplemental Questionnaire for Equivalency (if applicable) Please see the section titled "Equivalency" under the minimum qualifications above. 6. Complete official or unofficial college/university transcripts Transcripts must show the degree title and the date the degree was conferred, or the degree will not be considered for the purpose of determining if you meet minimum qualifications.

Copies of diplomas will not be accepted in lieu of transcripts. If the qualifying degree has yet to be conferred and you expect to have the degree before you begin employment, you must submit transcripts that state the title of the degree you are working toward obtaining and indicate the anticipated comp...