ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animal Training Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Vale Park Animal Hospital

Play Yard Attendant

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

If you have an interest in animal behavior and/or want to utilize your animal training skills in a lively boarding and daycare facility, The Lodge at Vale Park Animal Hospital may be the place for ...

Humane Fort Wayne

Animal Care Lead

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$19/hr

Provide daily coaching, mentorship, and training to Animal Care team members. * Promote teamwork, accountability, and a positive workplace culture. * Help onboard new employees and provide ongoing ...

Indy Gov

Animal Control Officer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$48K/yr

Must be qualified to receive and maintain special police and deputy sheriff powers, including the successful completion of any necessary training. Must have or be able to attain NACA (National Animal ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAnimal Training JobsAnimal Training Jobs in Indiana

Animal Training information

See Indiana salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do animal training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal training in Indiana is $17.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.42 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.
More about Animal Training jobs

What are popular job titles related to Animal Training jobs in Indiana?

For Animal Training jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Training jobs in Indiana look for?

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

Animal Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Training job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,213 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Play Yard Attendant

Vale Park Animal Hospital

Valparaiso, IN • On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

If you have an interest in animal behavior and/or want to utilize your animal training skills in a lively boarding and daycare facility, The Lodge at Vale Park Animal Hospital may be the place for you! The Lodge is seeking to hire a person who is confident working with dogs and cats of all shapes and sizes and who is versed at recognizing a variety of different animal behaviors. Hands on learning and training will be provided, but previous experience is preferred. Play Yard Attendants must be able to perform moderate physical labor including but not limited to lifting and restraining dogs up to 40 pounds. This position will also expose them to animal bodily fluids including but not limited to blood, urine and feces.
Job Requirements include, but are not limited to:
  • Monitor and maintain dog play groups
  • Keep working locations clean and sanitary
  • Record and maintain a regular feeding/medication schedule for all pets
  • Recognize dog behavior cues during play time and correct unwanted behaviors
  • Maintain a professional demeanor when presented with over-exuberant or energetic dogs
  • Communicate effectively with clients and other staff members to ensure the wellbeing of pets in our care
Previous kennel experience preferred, but not required.

Apply