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Executive Exotic Animal Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Shedd Aquarium

(Sr.) Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$26 - $35/hr

This role combines exceptional animal care and husbandry with positive reinforcement training ... Core Experience: * 2+ years of experience working with marine mammals, birds, or other exotic ...

San Bernardino County

Animal Keeper I

San Bernardino, CA

$19.41 - $28.18/hr

Primary duties include feeding exotic animals, observing and documenting animal behavior, answering questions from the public, assisting with presentations, animal training, performing maintenance in ...

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$39K

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

As of Sep 2, 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 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 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 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.

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.

How to become an executive exotic animal trainer?

To become an executive exotic animal trainer, individuals typically need extensive experience working with exotic animals, often starting as a zookeeper, animal handler, or trainer. Advanced knowledge of animal behavior, safety protocols, and relevant certifications such as animal training or handling licenses are important, along with strong communication and leadership skills. Gaining experience in specialized environments like zoos, wildlife parks, or private collections is essential for advancement to executive roles.
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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, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,790 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

DVM Student Externship - Green Summit Animal Clinic

Alliance Animal Health

Lees Summit, MO • On-site

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Alliance Animal Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 52 rated veterinary

Job description

Company Description

A Practice Where Future Veterinarians Can Thrive/Learn/Grow!

At Green Summit Animal Clinic, we have proudly cared for cherished pets and their owners in Lee's Summit and the surrounding communities for over 20 years. Our mission is to provide comprehensive healthcare to each of our patients, fostering the highest quality of life possible.

We are committed to empowering pet owners through education. We know you want the best for your pets, and we strive to make veterinary care approachable and reassuring. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to ensure that caring for your pet is a straightforward and enjoyable experience.

Providing appropriate medical care for rabbits and small mammals requires specialized training and expertise. Our staff veterinarians, who have experience in exotic animal care, are based in Lee's Summit and are dedicated to treating your pet rabbits and small mammals.

If you seek a veterinary clinic that delivers exceptional care, with compassionate veterinarians and staff who prioritize your pet's well-being, we invite you to visit us. 

Learn More About Our Hospital Here!

Job Description

We're looking for:

  • 1st through 4th Year Veterinary Students
  • Compassionate, Team Player, and Strong Communicator 
  • Veterinary students looking to enhance their education through real-world experiences

We offer our Veterinary Student Externs:

  • Paid Externship Hours
  • 1:1 Mentorship and Guidance 
  • Future Veterinary Opportunity Preferences
  • Future Ownership Opportunities through our Partner Track Program
  • DVM Mentor Network
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • This Externship is paid at $15 per hour
Qualifications
  • Must be an Active Veterinary Student from an AVMA Accredited Institution. 
Additional Information

WE ARE A DRUG-FREE, SMOKE-FREE, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Company Policy & Federal & State Laws Forbid Discrimination Because of Age, Color, Race, Religion, Sex, Disability, Sexual Orientation or National Origin

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