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Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer Jobs in Decatur, IL

National Veterinary Associates

Veterinarian

Decatur, IL

$110K - $150K/yr

Northgate Pet Clinic is seeking a full-time Associate Veterinarian at our 6-doctor practice located ... Looking for mentoring, training, and support? We offer both individualized and team-structured ...

NVA

Veterinarian

Decatur, IL · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Northgate Pet Clinic is seeking a full-time Associate Veterinarian at our 6-doctor practice located ... Looking for mentoring, training, and support? We offer both individualized and team-structured ...

ADM

Elevator Worker - Sullivan, IL

Sullivan, IL

$20.75/hr

Elevator Worker - Sullivan, ILThis is a full-time, hourly level position.Position Summary:Potential ... Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training ...

ADM

Elevator Worker - Macon, IL

Macon, IL

$20/hr

Elevator Worker - Macon, ILThis is a full-time, hourly position.We are looking for an individual ... Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training ...

ADM

Service Mechanic - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

$20.75 - $28/hr

Service Mechanic- Decatur, ILThis is a full-time, hourly, 2nd or 3rd shift position.Potential ... Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training ...

ADM

Merchandiser Feed Products - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

$70K - $131K/yr

Merchandiser Feed Products - Decatur, ILThis is a Full Time Exempt PositionMain Functions:Reporting ... Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training ...

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Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$11

$26

$46

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

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time exotic animal trainer in Decatur, IL is $26.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $30.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are full time exotic animal trainers?

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.

How to become an exotic animal trainer?

To become an exotic animal trainer, individuals typically need a background in animal science, biology, or related fields, along with hands-on experience working with animals. Many trainers gain experience through internships, volunteering, or working at zoos, aquariums, or wildlife sanctuaries, and some pursue certifications from professional organizations to enhance their credentials.

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

Full-time exotic animal trainers can potentially earn around $10,000 a month through high-profile performances, private training, or working with wealthy clients, especially if they develop specialized skills and reputation. However, such earnings are rare and often depend on experience, niche expertise, and the ability to secure lucrative opportunities without formal degrees.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer, and why are they important?

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.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Full-time exotic animal trainers typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized fields like high-level consulting, investment banking, or certain medical specialties. Some freelance or entrepreneurial roles in niche markets can reach this level, but they often require extensive experience, certifications, or unique skills. For most jobs, earning $2000 daily involves high compensation packages, bonuses, or profit-sharing arrangements rather than standard salaries.

How much do animal trainers make per year?

Full-time exotic animal trainers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of animals they work with. Advanced trainers with specialized skills or working in high-profile environments can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $80,000 per year.
What are popular job titles related to Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs in Decatur, IL? For Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer job openings:
Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer job openings in Decatur, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,544 per year, or $26.2 per hour.
Veterinarian

Veterinarian

National Veterinary Associates

Decatur, IL

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Northgate Pet Clinic is seeking a full-time Associate Veterinarian at our 6-doctor practice located in Decatur, the heart of Illinois. New grads are welcome!


We are a well-established, AAHA-accredited, full-service small animal veterinary hospital. We provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and dental care for canines, felines, exotics, pocket pets, and a small number of zoo animals (tigers anyone?).   


Any interest in expanding your day-to-day duties? We remain continuously engaged in a variety of clinical trials and perform extensive soft tissue, dental, and orthopedic surgeries daily.


Looking for mentoring, training, and support? We offer both individualized and team-structured training.  We have a large staff of 40+ (many are Fear-Free Certified), including a very talented brigade of technicians and assistants.


We are primarily appointment-based, accept occasional walk-ins, and provide emergency after-hour care for our clients. This is a full-time position that offers 40 hours per week with a rotating Saturday schedule of 2x 8-5 PM and 1x 12-5 PM. On-call includes 1 weekend per month between the doctor staff. We are closed on Sundays and holidays.


We offer a very large variety of cases, we’ve done it all and seen it all! We are looking for a veterinarian who has an interest in providing a wide variety of services ranging from wellness exams and vaccines to advanced diagnostics and complex surgical procedures. We provide services to a high number of breeders, Reproduction experience would be a plus. Interest in Cardiology? This role would be for you too!


No matter your level of experience, whether you’re a new grad or have been providing care for years, we welcome you.


About the Hospital

  • Laser surgery & therapy treatments
  • State-of-the-art surgical procedures & monitoring
  • Advanced oral surgery
  • Orthopedic surgery
  • All dental procedures
  • Digital imaging & ultrasonography
  • Canines, felines, avians, pocket pets, and zoo animals

To learn more, visit https://northgatepetclinic.com/


*Prosal Compensation with a base range of $110k - $150k. Compensation commensurate with experience, skills, schedule, and the scope of services provided.

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them.
At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to practice medicine their way. Our network of 1,000 hospitals connects them to a community of professionals who share their passion so they can learn and grow together. Our national presence enables us to deliver technology and innovations that simplify work and expand care for all. At NVA, we're committed to your professional growth. We support your entire career journey, offering opportunities ranging from mentorship to ownership.
At National Veterinary Associates, we want to make sure your experience connecting with us is seamless and straightforward. Here’s what to expect when interacting with us:
 
• We’ll always reach out via verified LinkedIn profiles or emails ending in @nva.com
• We may also contact you via text message from an identified NVA representative for recruiting-related communication
• All job opportunities and applications are hosted on our official careers site: careers.nva.com
• There is no cost or confidential information required to apply or be considered for a position
 
If you have any doubts about a communication, feel free to visit our careers page to verify authenticity or email us at hiringhub@nva.com. Thank you for exploring opportunities at NVA!
NVA offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.  The team can provide more information about compensation and benefits for your specific location during the process.  For positions based in Colorado, NVA provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
 
NVA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and any other state or local hiring regulations, we will consider for employment any qualified applicant, including those with arrest and conviction records, in a manner consistent with the applicable regulation.

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About NVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nashville Veterinary Specialists + Animal Emergency (NVS) is a veterinary specialty and emergency hospital group with two locations in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. Our Mission and primary focus is to honor the human-animal bond in all we do, focusing on patient care, client experience, and the health of our team. We believe we can never stop improving and strive to improve in all we do. Not only do we focus on patient care, but core to our hospital culture is also a focus on the health of our team, our community, and the environment. We are committed to sustainable environmental practices. NVS works in partnership with National Veterinary Associates-Compassion-First (NVA C-F). NVA-CF is the largest private owner of freestanding veterinary hospitals in North America with over 1400 locations worldwide.

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

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