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Animal Training Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SoBran, Inc.

Animal Facility Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

S. in Biology, Animal Science, or related discipline and LATG level or equivalent training or experience and have 4 years' experience in a laboratory animal facility. Benefits: * 401k plan * Dental ...

SoBran Inc.

Animal Facility Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

S. in Biology, Animal Science, or related discipline and LATG level or equivalent training or experience and have 4 years' experience in a laboratory animal facility. Benefits: * 401k plan * Dental ...

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Animal Training information

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$10

$18

$26

How much do animal training jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal training in Virginia is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $20.24 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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Animal Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Training job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,730 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Spotsylvania Animal Hospital - DVM/VMD Student Extern

Spotsylvania Animal Hospital

Spotsylvania, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Veterinary Student Externship

Spotsylvania Animal Hospital was founded in 1981 serving the companion and exotic animals of Spotsylvania, Virginia and surrounding communities. Over the past 40 years, Spotsylvania has established a highly regarded reputation for providing affordable care for pets, and our doctors were recognized among the region's "Best Vets of 2022" by Northern Virginia Magazine. We are proud of the warm, welcoming culture our hospital has cultivated and low turnover team, which includes several members with more than a decade of service at our hospital. In addition to general care capabilities, the practice offers digital x-ray, ultrasound, dental, and laser therapy equipment as well as acupuncture services to ensure the health and wellness of its patients.

About the Hospital

Spotsylvania Animal Hospital in Spotsylvania, Virginia was founded in 1981 and today is led by two experienced veterinarians that mentor LVTs, assistants, and support staff. The practice also has several team members with more than a decade of service. In addition to general care capabilities, the practice offers digital x-ray, ultrasound, dental, and laser therapy equipment as well as acupuncture services to ensure the health and wellness of its patients.

Over the past 40 years, Spotsylvania has established a highly regarded reputation in the community for providing affordable care for pets. It works with local law enforcement agencies with canine officers as well as the local animal control to keep shelter animals healthy. Its veterinarians are also involved in the prosecution of animal cruelty cases within the county. This reputation and its high standard of care have led to the practice receiving numerous high reviews and building a strong roster of loyal clients.

Why consider an externship with Spotsylvania Animal Hospital?

  • Mentorship from multiple strong veterinarians who are excited to welcome a student
  • Team has strong clinical skills in the areas of wellness and dentistry
  • Gain experience in holistic medicine with acupuncture
  • Gain experience with basic soft tissue and ophthalmic surgeries
  • Fully equipped with in-house lab capabilities, digital x-ray, laser therapy and ultrasound
  • Excellent culture, collaborative environment, and low turnover

What we offer externs:

  • Stipend to offset the cost of housing and travel
  • Mentorship from eager and experienced veterinarians
  • Opportunities to connect with multiple VetEvolve practices

Why VetEvolve:

  • VetEvolve's Support from the Start program is designed to provide new veterinarians with mentorship, hands-on training, and a customized post-grad experience to build a strong foundation. This includes assigned mentors, individualized mentorship plans, and opportunities for specialized training and continued education to help you develop your skills and confidence while fostering a healthy work-life balance.
  • Industry leading Veterinarian and support staff retention rates - Hear why our Veterinarians are "Happy Here" on our videos page.
  • We invest in our team members' professional growth and mental wellbeing, and many of our team members hold Compassion Fatigue Professional certifications.
  • We live by our core values: Serve, Evolve, and Trust.
  • " They allow me the freedom to practice as I see fit…We can make almost all of our main decisions ourselves, at the clinic level. Their up front focus on honesty and improving over time keeps surprising me each time they demonstrate it. Veterinary medicine is not always the prettiest, easiest, happiest, or most satisfying line of work as we all know, but I can't imagine doing it for any other group. VetEvolve has been able to retain a small feel over time, as it grows, which is huge for me." - VetEvolve network DVM. Reach out to us to hear more from our Veterinarians about how we strive to provide team members environments where they feel "Happy Here".
  • Repeat winner of Virginia's Best Places to Work (we are based in Virginia).

Qualifications:

  • Currently enrolled in an AVMA accredited Veterinary School (VMD or DVM degree path)

Apply here or contact Ashley Anderson at anderson@vetevolve.com for more information.

Apply