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Animal Training Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bioqual Inc

Animal Caretaker

Rockville, MD · On-site

$19.85 - $23/hr

The Animal Caretaker performs standardized procedures associated with operation of a laboratory ... They perform these duties under supervision until skill, training and understanding of Standard ...

Bioqual Inc

Animal Caretaker

Rockville, MD · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

The Animal Caretaker performs standardized procedures associated with operation of a laboratory ... They perform these duties under supervision until skill, training and understanding of Standard ...

New

FEFA LLC

Animal Facility Specialist I

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Identify training topics that will benefit staff development and contract performance. * Perform ... Employees' appointed to the position of the Animal Facility Specialist I must meet the following ...

FEFA LLC

Animal Facility Specialist I

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

Identify training topics that will benefit staff development and contract performance. * Perform ... Employees' appointed to the position of the Animal Facility Specialist I must meet the following ...

Smithsonian

Animal Health Technician

Washington, DC · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Responsibilities The Animal Health Technician is responsible for providing veterinary technical ... training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for ...

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How much do animal training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal training in Washington is $20.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.12 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,102 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Animal Caretaker

Bioqual Inc

Rockville, MD • On-site

$19.85 - $23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

OBJECTIVE:
The Animal Caretaker performs standardized procedures associated with operation of a laboratory animal facility under general supervision. An Animal Caretaker performs any combination of duties to attend animals including nonhuman primates. This includes tasks in animal care, sanitation, operations support, quality control and technical assistance. They perform these duties under supervision until skill, training and understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are demonstrated. Must obtain an AALAS certification six (6) months after hire.
QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:
• Handle laboratory animals
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Bend, stoop, and stretch
• Operate animal care equipment
• Wear respiratory protection.
• Understanding of the English language, specifically; basic veterinary medicine signs/symbols


DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Understand and follow appropriate SOPs according to animal species
• Feed and water animals according to schedule set down according to animal species and/or research protocol
• Clean and sanitize cages, water bottles, racks, and animal rooms
• Understand and operate cage wash machine and autoclaves
• Examine animals daily for signs of illness or reactions and reports such observations to an Animal Technician or Project Manager
• Monitor and record humidity and temperature in appointed rooms daily, noting unusual sounds, odors, and ventilation changes
• Perform all tasks in a way to minimize or prevent transfer of infection
• Perform other duties as assigned