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Elephant Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Love Management

Hospitality Trainer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

... White Elephant Saloon (Fort Worth), Woodshed Smokehouse (Fort Worth), and Atico (Fort Worth). Job Details: Who you are: The Hospitality Trainer will be instrumental in supporting the operational ...

MASHITA 2 LLC

Server/Bartender

Harrisonburg, VA

$15 - $30/hr

Opportunity for advancement ELEPHANT HEAD RESTAURANT & BAR SERVER / BARTENDER Harrisonburg, VA ... Competitive hourly pay Tip opportunities Flexible scheduling Comprehensive training Growth ...

MASHITA 2 LLC

Server/Bartender

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$15 - $30/hr

ELEPHANT HEAD RESTAURANT & BAR SERVER / BARTENDER Harrisonburg, VA Elephant Head is a brand new ... training • Growth opportunities within the company • Opportunity to be part of building an ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX

This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking. Our Mission: Houston ...

houstonzoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX · On-site

This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking. Our Mission: Houston ...

Houston Zoo

Zookeeper II Elephant

Houston, TX · On-site

This candidate will have solid knowledge in operant conditioning, implementation of animal training and enrichment programs, as well as being comfortable with public speaking. Our Mission: Houston ...

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$11

$27

$48

How much do elephant trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for elephant trainer in the United States is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common day-to-day responsibilities of an Elephant Trainer?

As an Elephant Trainer, your daily tasks typically include feeding and grooming elephants, conducting behavioral training sessions, and monitoring their health and well-being. You'll also help clean and maintain enclosures, assist with basic veterinary care, and record observations about each animal's behavior. Collaboration with other trainers, zookeepers, and veterinarians is frequent, ensuring a holistic approach to the animals’ care. The work often involves strict adherence to safety protocols and may require flexibility to handle emergencies or special events.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

An elephant trainer can potentially earn $10,000 a month through experience, reputation, and working with high-profile clients or facilities. Success in this field often depends on specialized skills, physical endurance, and building a strong network within the entertainment, conservation, or tourism industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Elephant Trainer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Elephant Trainer, you need extensive animal handling experience, a solid understanding of elephant behavior, and often a background in zoology or animal science. Familiarity with positive reinforcement training methods, safety protocols, and sometimes certification in animal care or related fields is important. Patience, physical stamina, strong observation skills, and excellent teamwork make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure the safety, well-being, and effective management of elephants, as well as successful collaboration with veterinary staff and other caretakers.

What is an Elephant Trainer job?

An Elephant Trainer is responsible for the care, training, and well-being of elephants in zoos, sanctuaries, or entertainment settings. They build trust with the animals using positive reinforcement techniques, provide daily care such as feeding and bathing, and monitor their health. Trainers also educate the public about elephant behavior and conservation efforts. The role requires patience, physical stamina, and a deep understanding of elephant behavior to ensure their welfare and safety.

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What cities are hiring for Elephant Trainer jobs? Cities with the most Elephant Trainer job openings:
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What states have the most Elephant Trainer jobs? States with the most job openings for Elephant Trainer jobs include:
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Elephant Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Elephant Trainer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 1% Full Time, 91% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,233 per year, or $27 per hour.

Animal Keeper - Elephant Dept.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Cincinnati, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is seeking an experienced Elephant Keeper to join our Asian Elephant Program. This position plays a key role in the daily care, behavioral management, and long-term success of a multi-generational, breeding elephant herd. The successful candidate will have significant experience with protected contact management, operant conditioning, behavioral observations and problem-solving.
Additional consideration will be given to candidates with hands-on experience managing multiple herds, bulls, introductions, and calf management. We are looking for a highly motivated keeper who excels at teamwork and open communication, and who demonstrates strong situational awareness and professionalism when working with large animals.
Position Benefits:
  • Union negotiated pay rates, with a starting range between 22.27-28.65 determined by years of field experience.
  • 200 PTO hours accrued throughout the first year of service, 80 of which is loaded into the PTO bank upon hire
  • Competitive benefit packages and retirement matching programs
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • Facility culture that highlights the following core values:
    • Collaborative Relationships
    • Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership
    • Positivity and Energy
    • Accountability, Mutual Trust, and Respect
    • Progressive Thinking
  • Intentional professional development opportunities, for both animal care and "people" skills

Minimum Desired Qualifications:
Preferred candidates will have:
  • Minimum 3 years professional elephant care experience
  • Experience working with elephants in a protected contact management system
  • Demonstrated experience with operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training

Experience with the following is strongly preferred:
  • Elephant introductions and herd management
  • Breeding and reproductive management
  • Calf care and development
  • Elephant foot care and preventative medical training
  • Behavioral observation and welfare monitoring
  • EEHV monitoring or treatment protocols

Additional qualifications:
  • Degree in Zoology, Biology, Animal Science, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
  • Strong understanding of elephant behavior, husbandry, and safety practices
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills
  • Valid driver's license and ability to meet CZBG employment requirements

Essential Responsibilities
Husbandry & Welfare
  • Provide daily husbandry care including feeding, habitat maintenance, enrichment, and behavioral observation.
  • Participate in a protected contact elephant management program following established safety protocols.
  • Monitor elephant behavior and welfare and report abnormalities to supervisors and veterinary staff.
  • Maintain clean and safe indoor and outdoor elephant facilities.
  • Support exercise, enrichment, and environmental management programs that promote natural behaviors and activity.

Behavioral Training
  • Participate in an operant conditioning program using positive reinforcement training.
  • Train elephants to voluntarily participate in husbandry and veterinary procedures.
  • Assist with development and implementation of individual training plans.
  • Maintain consistent communication with team members regarding training progress and behavioral changes.

Management
  • Assist in management of a multi-generational elephant herd, including monitoring social dynamics and compatibility.
  • Participate in elephant introductions and social management under the direction of supervisors.
  • Assist with breeding management and reproductive monitoring in coordination with veterinary staff.
  • Support calf rearing and maternal care management.
  • Participate in husbandry and training programs that support calf development and socialization.
  • Participate in preventative care practices including:
    • Foot care
    • Skin care
    • Blood collection and trunk washes
    • Behavioral medical training
    • Maintain accurate daily records related to husbandry, enrichment, behavior, and training.

Team Collaboration
  • Work collaboratively with elephant team members, veterinary staff, and other animal care departments.
  • Assist in training and mentoring interns, volunteers, and seasonal staff.
  • Maintain strong team communication regarding daily operations and animal management.

Guest Engagement
  • Participate in keeper chats, tours, and other educational programs.
  • Represent the elephant program professionally when interacting with zoo guests.

Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; bend; climb or balance; lift, grasp; and negotiate stairs and ladders. In addition, the employee may be exposed to Zoonosis, chemicals, and outside weather conditions; Must be able to lift and move 50 pounds without mechanical assistance; must possess a valid driver's license (and insurable to drive a Zoo vehicle).
Position Details: This is a full-time (40 hours per week with benefits) Union keeper position, which is subject to the successful completion of a probationary and the deduction of union dues. This position requires weekend work with regular off-days TBD. This is a 4, 10 hr/day schedule.
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden offers a comprehensive benefits package including affordable medical, dental & vision coverage; 401(k) plan with company match; flexible spending accounts; generous paid time off (vacation, holiday and sick leave); company-paid disability & life insurance; park discounts and free passes.
To Apply: Cover letter & resume should be attached to your online application
Not familiar with Cincinnati? Check out the following:
  • Cincinnati Named One of the Best Cities in the Midwest for 2026
  • Cincinnati Region's Official Travel and Tourism Guide | Visit Cincy
  • Is Cincinnati a good place to live? Yes, and here's why - University of Cincinnati: Founder of Co-op, Leader in Co-op | University of Cincinnati

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