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Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Bio Dude Inc

Animal Wrangler

Webster, TX

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Animal Wrangler - Exotic Reptile and Amphibian Care Company: The Bio Dude Location: Webster, Texas Employment Type: Full-Time FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly) Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM ...

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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Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer information

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$11

$27

$48

How much do full time exotic animal trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time exotic animal 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 is a full time exotic animal trainer?

Full time exotic animal trainers are professionals who work with non-domesticated animals, such as big cats, primates, birds of prey, marine mammals, or reptiles, to teach them specific behaviors or assist with their care and enrichment. These trainers may work in zoos, aquariums, animal sanctuaries, theme parks, or in the entertainment industry. Their responsibilities include developing training plans, monitoring animal health, ensuring proper nutrition, and promoting animal welfare. This role requires patience, strong observational skills, and a deep understanding of animal behavior. Full time trainers often work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, to meet the needs of the animals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time exotic animal trainer?

To thrive as a Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer, you need expertise in animal behavior, handling, and training techniques, often supported by a degree in animal science, biology, or related fields and hands-on experience with various species. Familiarity with animal management software, safety equipment, and certifications such as animal first aid or professional trainer credentials are commonly required. Patience, strong observational skills, and clear communication help trainers build trust with animals and collaborate effectively with team members. These competencies ensure the safety of both animals and humans while promoting positive animal welfare and successful training outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by full time exotic animal trainers, and how are they typically addressed?

Full time exotic animal trainers often encounter challenges such as building trust with animals that have diverse temperaments, ensuring safety for both animals and staff, and adapting training methods to suit each species' unique needs. Addressing these challenges typically involves ongoing education in animal behavior, collaborating closely with veterinarians and zookeepers, and maintaining clear communication within a multidisciplinary team. Trainers also spend significant time observing animals to tailor enrichment activities and training sessions, ensuring both the animals' well-being and compliance with ethical standards.
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Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,233 per year, or $27 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.