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Dolphin Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Showing results 21-34

Dolphin Therapy information

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$12

$21

$30

How much do dolphin therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 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 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.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,981 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Assistant Childcare Teacher - Floater

Waypoint Maine

Scarborough, ME

$17 - $20/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Assistant Childcare Teacher - Floater     

Program: Little Dolphin - Westbrook and Scarborough; Floaters work at both locations

Salary/Hourly Status: Hourly, part time                  FLSA Classification: Non-exempt

Schedule: variable weekday hours                            Reports to: Lead Childcare Teacher

Starting Pay Range: $17-$20/hr

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Company Overview

Waypoint offers comprehensive services, including a special purpose private school for children with autism and other developmental disabilities, case management and outpatient therapy services for children and adults, and residential and in-home supports for adults with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities.

Position Overview

The Assistant Childcare Teacher is responsible for partnering with the Lead Teacher in providing a safe, healthy, enriching and high-quality classroom learning environment for children assigned to the classroom. This position will be assigned to infant, toddler, or preschool classrooms based on program needs and child census.

______________________________________________________________________________

Responsibilities

Essential Duties

         Implement a schedule, routine, and activities that encourage child development, social growth, and independence, in a context of dignity and respect.

         Ensure the classroom is safe, clean, orderly, and ready for learning. maintaining compliance with health and sanitation procedures, including cleaning and disinfecting materials and equipment.

         Provide active supervision of children, including indoors, outdoors, during meals, rest periods, and transitions.

         Assist children with daily living skills, including toileting, handwashing, dressing, feeding, and personal hygiene as needed.

         Partner with Lead Teacher in developing and implementing weekly lesson plans.

         Ensure a positive, collaborative, respectful learning environment.

         Maintain a room arrangement that is safe, inviting, stimulating, and developmentally appropriate.

         Observe, record, and report child behaviors of concern. Utilize Waypoint protocols to report any incident of injury/illness.

         Assist with any required record-keeping in the classroom.

         Exhibit compassion, good communication, and appropriate professional boundaries with parents/caregivers.

         Maintain professional conduct and represent the organization positively in all interactions.

         Comply with all licensing rules including positive and developmentally appropriate child discipline.

         Attend and contribute to staff meetings and engage in required professional development/training opportunities.

         Monitor children for signs of illness, injury, or developmental concerns and communicate observations promptly. May contact a parent regarding a sick child, given collaboration with Lead.

         Approval is required for any changes to work schedule, time off needs.

         Participate in emergency preparedness plans, including fire drills, evacuation procedures, and emergency response protocols.

         Maintain confidentiality of all child and family information in accordance with applicable laws, licensing requirements, and agency policies.

         Fulfill all obligations as a Mandated Reporter under Maine law, including timely reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect according to Waypoint Maine's policies and procedures.

         Work collaboratively with teaching staff and other program personnel to support program goals

         Demonstrate reliability through punctuality attendance, and preparedness for assigned shifts.

         Adhere to Waypoint policies & procedures and provide leadership to staff in doing same.

         Perform other duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

Requirements

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

         Knowledge of child development and developmentally appropriate activities

         Ability to relate with joy, care, compassion, and sensitivity to children

         Emotional maturity and sound decision-making skills

         Strong judgement in challenging or crisis situations

Education/Experience

         High School Diploma or Equivalent

         First Aid/CPR certification (must be maintained current)

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

  • Work environment is Little Dolphin School; Westbrook or Scarborough location. Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, reach above head, walk throughout building and grounds. Ability to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to speak and model clear English in order to communicate effectively with children and families, hear at normal speaking levels/ability to receive detailed information through oral or telephonic communication, close visual acuity in order to perform activities such as collecting/preparing data, providing supervision, and daily use of technology/computer screens. Working with young children and toddlers requires continuous physical stamina. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds regularly.

Benefits

  • Retirement plan