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Full Time Exotic Animal Trainer Jobs in Decatur, IL

NVA

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Decatur, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Partnerships with Macon County Animal Control and Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation ... Schedule & Compensation * Full-time - 5 shifts per week, ~8 hours/day * Rotating Saturdays (2/month)

ADM

Service Mechanic - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL · On-site

$25.37/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

Elevator Worker - Sullivan, IL

Sullivan, IL · On-site

$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 · On-site

$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

Class A City Truck Driver - Decatur, IL.

Decatur, IL · On-site

$25.17/hr

... 000.00 Referral BonusThis is a full-time, hourly position.ADM Trucking is a food grade ... 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 Sep 9, 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 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.

How to become a full time exotic animal trainer?

To become a full-time exotic animal trainer, individuals typically need a background in animal science, biology, or related fields, along with hands-on experience working with exotic animals. Certification from reputable organizations and strong skills in animal behavior, safety protocols, and training techniques are also important for securing full-time employment in this field.

What is a high paying job that works with full time exotic animal trainers?

A high-paying job related to full-time exotic animal trainers is often in zoological or wildlife management roles, such as zoo directors or conservation managers, which require extensive experience and education. These positions typically involve overseeing animal care, training programs, and conservation efforts, and they tend to offer higher salaries due to their responsibility level and specialized skills.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,544 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)

Decatur, IL • On-site

National Veterinary Associates
Veterinary Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about National Veterinary Associatesexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

National Veterinary Associates rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 281 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 56 rated veterinary

Job description

Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT)
Fairview Hospital for Animals - Decatur, IL
Proudly named one of NVA's Top 50 Hospitals in 2024!

Are you a Certified Veterinary Technician looking for a rewarding opportunity with a clinic that truly lives its mission of service, compassion, and community?

At Fairview Hospital for Animals in Decatur, IL, we're more than just a veterinary hospital-we're a pillar in our community, making a difference in the lives of pets and people alike. We've been proudly serving our neighbors for years and were recently named one of the Top 50 NVA hospitals in 2024-a recognition of our dedication to excellent medicine and our unwavering commitment to those we serve.

What Sets Us Apart

We give back-big time. Whether it's collecting nearly 5,000 pounds of pet food during the holidays to support local families, or hosting pop-up vaccine clinics for the homeless through the Street Dog Coalition, our mission extends far beyond our exam rooms. We actively work to prevent pet homelessness through:

  • Feral cat trap-neuter-return programs
  • Partnerships with Macon County Animal Control and Decatur & Macon County Animal Shelter Foundation
  • Low-cost spay/neuter services for underserved pet owners
  • The Shelter Barn Program to improve life for feral cats

We're not just in the community-we're part of it.

About the Role

We're seeking a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) with 2+ years of experience who thrives in a supportive environment where they can work to their full potential. You'll be involved in:

  • Surgery & Anesthesia
  • Dentistry
  • Patient Nursing & Care
  • Client Communication & Education

Confidence, initiative, and a passion for both pets and people are key. We're looking for a technician who loves to teach, learn, and lead by example. Our leadership is hands-on, empowering, and deeply supportive-they give you the tools, training, and autonomy to shine.

Why You'll Love Working Here

  • Gorgeous, modern facility with state-of-the-art equipment
  • Cohesive, close-knit team-many of our team members have been with us for over 10 years
  • Culture of trust, respect, and support-leadership that truly has your back
  • Incredible clientele who value high-quality care and are committed to doing what's best for their pets
  • Busy practice-we're one of the few still accepting new clients in the area!

Schedule & Compensation

  • Full-time - 5 shifts per week, ~8 hours/day
  • Rotating Saturdays (2/month)
  • Competitive pay: $18-20/hour, based on experience
  • Sign On Bonus $1,000

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Pet care discounts
  • Uniforms provided
  • Continuing Education (CE) allowance
  • License reimbursement

Ready to Join a Hospital That Truly Cares?

If you're a passionate CVT looking to grow with a hospital that prioritizes quality medicine, community service, and culture, this is your place.

1090 W South Side Dr, Decatur, IL 62521

Apply today and discover what it means to be part of our growing team!

What National Veterinary Associates employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About National Veterinary Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

National Veterinary Associates, based in Agoura Hills, CA, US, is a leading provider in the veterinary healthcare industry. Established in 1996, it operates independently owned veterinary practices across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. With a passion for pet health, National Veterinary Associates supports over 1000 veterinary hospitals and pet resort entities. Though their website, nva.com, doesn't explicitly describe their mission, it is evident that their aim is to empower veterinarians with the resources they need to provide high-quality, compassionate pet care services. They have made remarkable strides in advancing veterinary medicine, which is a testament to their industry influence and commitment.

Industry

Veterinary services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Agoura Hills, CA, US

Year founded

1996

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