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Dolphin Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Therapy - PT

Siler City, NC · On-site

$1.9K/wk

... Profession Therapy Specialty PT Job ID 37445756 Job Title Therapy - PT Weekly Pay $1939.75 Shift ... Client Details Address 900 West Dolphin St City Siler City State NC Zip Code 27344 Job Board ...

Veterinary Receptionist

Hilton Head Island, SC · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

We offer general wellness, diagnostic services, various surgeries even rehabilitation therapy ... Mild Winters * Lots of outdoor and water activities including golf, kayaking, dolphin watching ...

Dolphin Therapy information

See salary details

$12

$21

$30

How much do dolphin therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for dolphin therapy in the United States is $21.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying therapy job?

In dolphin therapy, senior roles such as lead therapists or program directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $50,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and strong interpersonal skills, with some earning higher based on location and facility size.

How do you get a job as a dolphin trainer?

To become a dolphin trainer, candidates typically need a background in marine biology, animal science, or a related field, along with experience working with marine mammals or in animal care. Certification in CPR and first aid is often required, and strong communication, patience, and physical fitness are important for handling and training dolphins effectively.

What is the difference between Dolphin Therapy vs Speech Therapist?

AspectDolphin TherapySpeech Therapist
CredentialsSpecialized training in animal-assisted therapy, certifications in dolphin therapy programsMaster's degree in Speech-Language Pathology, state licensure, ASHA certification
Work EnvironmentTherapy centers, aquatic facilities, marine parksHospitals, clinics, schools, private practices
Industry UsageComplementary therapy for developmental and emotional issuesAssessment and treatment of speech, language, and communication disorders

While Dolphin Therapy involves animal-assisted sessions with trained dolphins to support emotional and developmental goals, Speech Therapists focus on diagnosing and treating speech and language disorders through evidence-based techniques. Both roles aim to improve communication, but Dolphin Therapy is a specialized, adjunctive approach often used alongside traditional speech therapy.

Is animal assisted therapy a good career?

Dolphin therapy is a specialized form of animal-assisted therapy that involves working with dolphins to support individuals with developmental or emotional challenges. Careers in this field typically require knowledge of therapy techniques, animal handling skills, and relevant certifications, and often involve working in aquatic environments. It can be a rewarding but competitive field with specific training requirements.

What is dolphin therapy?

Dolphin therapy is a type of animal-assisted therapy that involves interactions between people and dolphins, often in aquatic settings. It is used as a complementary therapy for individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental challenges, such as autism or cerebral palsy. During sessions, participants may swim with, touch, or play games with dolphins under the supervision of therapists and dolphin trainers. Proponents believe that these interactions can promote relaxation, improve mood, and enhance communication or social skills. However, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited, and it is considered a controversial therapy by many healthcare professionals.

What does dolphin therapy do?

Dolphin therapy involves interactions with dolphins, often used as a complementary treatment for individuals with developmental or behavioral conditions. It aims to promote emotional, social, and cognitive benefits through activities like swimming and communication with dolphins under professional supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dolphin Therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dolphin Therapist, you need a background in psychology, occupational or physical therapy, or special education, often supported by relevant degrees and certifications, along with specialized training in animal-assisted therapy. Experience with aquatic therapy techniques, safety protocols, and familiarity with marine animal care systems is essential. Empathy, patience, strong communication, and the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and clients are crucial soft skills in this field. These abilities ensure safe and effective therapy sessions, maximize therapeutic outcomes, and foster trust between clients, dolphins, and staff.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in dolphin therapy, and how do teams typically address them?

Professionals in dolphin therapy often encounter challenges such as maintaining the well-being of both clients and dolphins, adapting therapy sessions to individual client needs, and ensuring strict adherence to ethical and safety standards. Teams address these challenges by collaborating closely—therapists, marine biologists, and animal trainers work together to monitor the dolphins' health and behavior, develop personalized therapy plans, and continually review safety protocols. Regular training and open communication within the multidisciplinary team help ensure a positive and effective therapeutic environment for clients while prioritizing animal welfare.
More about Dolphin Therapy jobs
What states have the most Dolphin Therapy jobs? States with the most job openings for Dolphin Therapy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Dolphin Therapy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,981 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

$1.9K/wk

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Details
Client Name
POWERBACK - Siler City Center
Job Type
Travel
Offering
Allied
Profession
Therapy
Specialty
PT
Job ID
37445756
Job Title
Therapy - PT
Weekly Pay
$1939.75
Shift Details
Shift
7.5H Days
Scheduled Hours
37
Job Order Details
Start Date
08/10/2026
End Date
11/07/2026
Duration
13 Week(s)
Job Description
GetMed Staffing is searching for a strong Physical Therapist to assist our traveler-friendly client. A minimum of 1-2 years of experience is required.
Traveling with GetMed Staffing offers the unique opportunity to gain diverse experiences, both personally and professionally. Gain experience that matters.
Client Details
Address
900 West Dolphin St
City
Siler City
State
NC
Zip Code
27344
Job Board Disclaimer
Weekly Pay is estimated and does not include taxes, insurance, or other deductions that may occur.