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Executive Exotic Animal Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dancing Horses Theatre

Exotic Animal Intern

Delavan, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $18/hr

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships ... The internship provides hands-on training, feeding, and caring for mini-pigs, monkeys, raccoons ...

Tufts University

Animal Care Attendant

North Grafton, MA · On-site

$18 - $23.90/hr

Associate's Degree or Vocational/technical training preferred with one or more years of experience. * Knowledge of animal behavior, restraint, feeding and basic sanitation. * Exotic animal handling ...

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Executive Exotic Animal Trainer information

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How much do executive exotic animal trainer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive exotic animal trainer in the United States is $37,790.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $38,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Executive Exotic Animal Trainer vs Exotic Animal Handler?

AspectExecutive Exotic Animal TrainerExotic Animal Handler
CredentialsAnimal training certifications, zoology or related degreesBasic animal handling certifications, experience with specific species
Work EnvironmentZoos, wildlife parks, private collections, film setsZoos, sanctuaries, private owners, film sets
Employer & IndustryWildlife organizations, entertainment industry, private clientsZoos, animal sanctuaries, private owners
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level training, animal management, exotic species expertiseHandling, safety, species-specific skills

Executive Exotic Animal Trainers typically possess advanced certifications and work in specialized environments managing exotic animals at a higher level. Exotic Animal Handlers focus on direct handling and safety, often with less formal training. Both roles are essential in the industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive exotic animal trainer?

To thrive as an Executive Exotic Animal Trainer, you need in-depth knowledge of animal behavior, species-specific care, and training techniques, often backed by a degree in zoology, animal science, or related fields. Familiarity with behavioral conditioning tools, safety protocols, and animal management software is typically required, along with relevant certifications like Certified Professional Animal Trainer (CPAT). Exceptional communication, patience, and leadership skills are vital for collaborating with teams and ensuring animal welfare. These skills and qualities are essential for safely managing exotic animals, developing effective training programs, and maintaining high standards of care.

What is an executive exotic animal trainer?

Executive Exotic Animal Trainers are highly skilled professionals who specialize in training rare and exotic animals for various purposes, such as entertainment, education, research, or animal welfare. They often work with animals like big cats, primates, birds of prey, reptiles, and marine mammals. In addition to training animals, they may supervise teams, design training programs, ensure animal health and safety, and collaborate with veterinarians and facility managers. Their work requires extensive knowledge of animal behavior, strong communication skills, and adherence to strict ethical and legal standards.

What are some unique challenges executive exotic animal trainers face when working with diverse species, and how can they prepare for them?

Executive Exotic Animal Trainers often encounter the challenge of adapting training techniques to suit a wide variety of exotic species, each with distinct behaviors and needs. Safety protocols must be meticulously followed, as even well-trained animals can be unpredictable. Trainers also need to collaborate closely with veterinarians, nutritionists, and other specialists to ensure holistic care. Staying updated on the latest animal behavior research and regularly participating in professional development can help trainers effectively handle these challenges and advance in their careers.
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Executive Exotic Animal Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Exotic Animal Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,790 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Exotic Animal Intern

The Dancing Horses Theatre

Delavan, WI • On-site

$100 - $300/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Exotic Animal Intern - PAID
Animal Gardens Petting Zoo is seeking animal (PAID) internships available from OCTOBER 2026 - APRIL 2027. This internship is perfect for anyone wanting to specialize in the animal industry. The internship provides hands-on training, feeding, and caring for mini-pigs, monkeys, raccoons, skunks, bobcats, foxes deer, llamas, goats, donkeys, wolves and much more.  Also bottle feeding baby animals!!  If you desire to work, learn and gain hands-on experience in this industry this is the perfect position for you! You will personally handle all our animals and be responsible for preparing a narrative to be presented to our guests and Children's Field trips. Many of our interns have gotten jobs with Zoos all over the country. We are located in Wisconsin at the Illinois border in a resort area.

Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Some knowledge of all phases of Exotic animal care.
  • 4-6 months commitment is preferred.

Benefits:
  • A small financial stipend is offered based on your experience.
  • Must live on-site we offer FREE dorm-style housing and a laundry facility.

Internships are available anytime:
  • October 2026 - April 2027.
  • Our training has allowed many of our interns to secure permanent jobs with us and other similar-type facilities.
  • We Offer Full Training.

Please email your resume immediately to info@animalgardens.com and we will send you more details, or call 262-728-820.