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Marine Animal Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Participate in drills, training, and ongoing safety education. Growth & Development: * Learn and ... Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field. * Passion for animal care ...

National Aquarium

Hospital Manager

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$65 - $82/hr

... of marine animal health.The Hospital Manager works collaboratively as part of the Animal Health ... Responsible for staff development, coaching, goal setting, training, & promoting continuing ...

National Aquarium

Hospital Manager

Baltimore, MD · On-site

... of marine animal health. The Hospital Manager works collaboratively as part of the Animal Health ... Oversees all aspects of radiology safety including training of new hires and management of ...

Texas State Aquarium

Trainer I/II

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

Position Summary The Trainer I/Trainer II is a full time position that provides daily care, training, enrichment, and husbandry for the marine mammal collection, ensuring exceptional animal wellness ...

Texas State Aquarium

Trainer I/II

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

Position Summary The Trainer I/Trainer II is a full time position that provides daily care, training, enrichment, and husbandry for the marine mammal collection, ensuring exceptional animal wellness ...

Z&A Management

Animal Keeper - Full Time

Folsom, CA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Participate in drills, training, and ongoing safety education. Growth & Development: * Learn and ... Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field. * Passion for animal care ...

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Marine Animal Trainer information

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How much do marine animal trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine animal trainer in the United States is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $14.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a marine animal trainer?

Marine animal trainers are professionals who work with aquatic animals such as dolphins, sea lions, whales, and seals to train them for behaviors, enrichment, medical procedures, public presentations, or research purposes. They use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage animals to perform specific tasks or respond to cues. Marine animal trainers often work at aquariums, marine parks, research facilities, or rehabilitation centers, and also play a role in educating the public about marine wildlife and conservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a marine animal trainer?

To thrive as a Marine Animal Trainer, you need a background in animal science, biology, psychology, or a related field, often with hands-on experience through internships or volunteering. Familiarity with operant conditioning techniques, training equipment, and animal care management systems is typically required. Exceptional patience, observation skills, and strong communication abilities help trainers build trust with animals and effectively engage with the public. These competencies are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, successful training outcomes, and positive visitor experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by marine animal trainers in their daily work?

Marine animal trainers often encounter challenges such as building trust and establishing clear communication with animals, which requires patience and consistency. Adapting training techniques to suit individual animals' personalities and learning speeds is also essential. Additionally, trainers must be vigilant about animal health and welfare, working closely with veterinarians and other staff to monitor behavior and well-being. Team collaboration is vital, as trainers regularly coordinate schedules, enrichment activities, and educational presentations with other departments.

What is the difference between Marine Animal Trainer vs Marine Biologist?

AspectMarine Animal TrainerMarine Biologist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in animal training or marine lifeBachelor’s or higher in marine biology or related field; advanced research degrees
Work EnvironmentAquariums, marine parks, or marine research facilities; hands-on animal interactionResearch labs, fieldwork, academic institutions; focus on study and conservation
Employer & Industry UsageMarine parks, aquariums, zoos, marine entertainmentUniversities, research institutions, conservation organizations

Marine Animal Trainers focus on hands-on training and care of marine animals in entertainment and educational settings, requiring certifications and animal handling skills. Marine Biologists conduct research, study marine ecosystems, and often hold advanced degrees. While both work with marine life, their roles differ in purpose, environment, and qualifications.

How do you become a marine animal trainer?

To become a marine animal trainer, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in marine biology, zoology, or a related field, along with experience working with animals through internships or volunteer work. Certification in CPR and first aid is often required, and strong skills in animal handling, patience, and communication are essential for success in this role.

How much do marine animal trainers make?

Marine animal trainers typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $50,000, with experienced trainers or those working in specialized facilities earning higher. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the size of the organization, and trainers often need certifications and hands-on experience working with marine life.
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Marine Animal Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Marine Animal Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,875 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Animal Keeper

Z&A Management

Woodbridge, NJ • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center.

Bring Curiosity to Life. Care for Animals. Inspire Every Guest.
At Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife Center, Animal Keepers do more than care for animals—they create moments of connection that spark curiosity, empathy, and lifelong respect for wildlife.
As an Animal Keeper, you’ll play a hands-on role in animal care while helping guests experience the wonder of the natural world up close. Whether you’re preparing habitats, observing animal behavior, or sharing stories with families, your work directly supports animal welfare, education, and conservation.
If you’re passionate about animals, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and enjoy engaging with people just as much as caring for wildlife—this role is for you.

What You’ll Do: 
Animal Care & Husbandry: 
  • Provide daily care for a diverse collection of animals, including feeding, cleaning, habitat maintenance, and enrichment.
  • Follow established procedures to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and safety.
  • Observe animals closely and report any changes in behavior, appetite, or health. 
  • Support animal movements, introductions, and routine care activities. 

Guest Experience & Education: 
  • Engage guests in meaningful, memorable interactions throughout the facility. 
  • Share animal stories, fun facts, and conservation messaging in a way that is approachable and engaging. 
  • Help guests understand the “why” behind animal care and conservation efforts. 
  • Maintain awareness of guest safety and exhibit boundaries in a dynamic environment.

Mission & Conservation: 
  • Actively support the organization’s mission through daily actions and guest interactions. 
  • Inspire guests to care about wildlife, conservation, and responsible stewardship. 
  • Represent the organization with professionalism, enthusiasm, and authenticity. 

Safety & Operations: 
  • Follow all safety protocols, PPE requirements, and emergency procedures.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe animal care areas.
  • Respond quickly to changing environments to protect both animals and guests. 
  • Participate in drills, training, and ongoing safety education. 

Growth & Development: 
  • Learn and apply animal care techniques, handling skills, and education strategies. 
  • Participate in training and actively seek feedback. 
  • Build knowledge across species, habitats, and conservation topics. 
  • Grow into increased responsibility over time. 

Teamwork & Culture: 
  • Collaborate with Animal Care, Guest Services, and leadership teams. 
  • Communicate clearly, respectfully, and proactively.  
  • Show up reliably and contribute to a positive, solutions-focused team environment.

What You Bring: 
Required: 
  • Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field. 
  • Passion for animal care, education, and conservation. 
  • Comfort working in a guest-facing, interactive environment. 
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Willingness to learn, take direction, and follow established procedures. 
  • Ability to work on your feet, indoors and outdoors, in a physically active role. 

Preferred: 
  • Hands-on experience with animals in a professional, academic, or volunteer setting. 
  • Experience in education, public speaking, or customer service. 
  • Background in biology, animal science, or environmental education. 

Physical & Environmental Requirements: 
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds. 
  • Ability to work around animals, water systems, cleaning agents, and food prep areas. 
  • Ability to stay alert and responsive in a fast-paced, guest-facing environment. 

What Success Looks Like: 
  • Animals in your care are healthy, safe, and thriving. 
  • Guests leave with a memorable, positive experience. 
  • You consistently follow procedures while growing your skills.
  • You build strong, collaborative relationships with your team. 
  • You contribute to a culture of safety, accountability, and passion. 

Schedule Expectations: 
This role requires a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays. Shifts may vary based on operational needs, and reliability is essential.

Why Join Us?:
  • Be part of a mission-driven team making a real impact. 
  • Work hands-on with animals in a dynamic, engaging environment.
  • Grow your career in animal care, education, and conservation.
  • Create meaningful experiences for guests every day.