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Lion Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FT Food Lion To Go Lead (544707)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$15 - $20.50/hr

We are committed to the professional development of our associates through on-the-job learning opportunities and training. . . Empty field At Food Lion, Associates are the most important assets to ...

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Lion Trainer information

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$12

$26

$38

How much do lion trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for lion trainer in the United States is $26.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lion trainer do?

A Lion Trainer works with lions to train them for performances, educational programs, or behavioral enrichment. They use positive reinforcement techniques to teach commands, ensure the animals' well-being, and build trust. Trainers also oversee feeding, health monitoring, and enclosure maintenance. The role requires patience, experience with animal behavior, and a strong understanding of safety protocols.

What are some common challenges faced by lion trainers on the job?

Lion Trainers often encounter challenges such as building and maintaining trust with the animals, ensuring consistent safety protocols, and adapting to each lion's unique temperament. The work environment can be physically demanding and unpredictable, requiring trainers to stay alert and respond quickly to changing situations. Working collaboratively with veterinarians and other animal care staff is essential to monitor health and behavioral changes. Overcoming these challenges helps trainers create positive, enriching experiences for both the lions and the audiences they engage with.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the lion trainer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lion Trainer, you need expertise in animal behavior, animal care, and hands-on experience working with large wildlife, often supported by a degree in zoology, animal science, or related fields. Knowledge of specialized training tools such as clickers, target sticks, safety barriers, and compliance with relevant safety certifications (like OSHA animal handling courses) is crucial. Patience, acute observation skills, and strong communication make candidates stand out in both training sessions and public demonstrations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure both lion welfare and human safety in a high-risk, dynamic work environment.

How do you become a lion trainer?

To become a lion trainer, individuals typically need a background in animal behavior, zoology, or related fields, along with hands-on experience working with large cats or exotic animals. Many trainers start as animal caretakers or interns, obtain relevant certifications, and develop skills in safety, training techniques, and understanding animal psychology. Professional experience and sometimes specialized courses or apprenticeships are essential for this role.
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Infographic showing various Lion Trainer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,463 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

PT Food Lion To Go Associate (421213)

King George, VA • On-site

Ahold Delhaize
Retail • 10K+ employees

$13 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Ahold Delhaize USA rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

74th of 124 rated grocery stores


Job description

At Food Lion, Associates are the most important assets to our organization. We want associates to have meaningful careers full of variety and challenges. Each associate contributes to the overall success of Food Lion, and in return, we strive to provide all associates with a fulfilling work experience and reward performance and commitment. We are committed to the professional development of our associates through on-the-job learning opportunities and training.

PT Food Lion To Go Associate

Food Lion provides equal employment opportunities to all associates and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth and related conditions) national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity or gender expression or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you have a disability and require assistance in the application process, please contact our Recruiting Department at recruiting@foodlion.com


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