Job Description of Animal Trainers:
Animal trainers use various techniques to train animals for riding, security, performance, obedience, or assisting people with disabilities.
Employment Facts for Animal Trainers:
47,000 people worked as animal trainers in 2008.
Educational Requirements for Animal Trainers:
Although in most cases animal trainers need to have a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED) equivalent, some animal trainers must have a bachelor's degree and additional skills. Marine mammal trainers, for example, generally need a bachelor's degree in biology, marine biology, animal science, psychology, or a related field.
Other Requirements for Animal Trainers:
Animal trainers must be patient and sensitive. They should have experience with problem-solving and animal obedience. While animal trainers aren't required to have certification, several organizations offer training programs and voluntary certification for those who want to enter this field.
Job Outlook for Animal Trainers:
Demand for animal trainers will grow much faster than average for all occupations through 2018 as pet owners utilize their services. Demand for marine mammal trainers, however, should grow slowly.
How Much Do Animal Trainers Earn?:
Animal trainers earned median hourly earnings of $12.95 and median annual earnings of $26,930 in 2009.
Use the Salary Calculator at Salary.com to find out how much animal trainers currently earn in your city.
A Day in an Animal Trainer's Life:
On a typical day an animal trainer will:
- Get animals accustomed to human voice and contact;
- Condition animals to respond to commands;
- Give positive reinforcement to animals;
- Provide animals mental stimulation, physical exercise, and hands-on care;
- Oversee diet preparation;
Animal trainers often work in competitions and shows. Those who do often conduct educational programs for visitors and guests.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Animal Care and Service Workers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos168.htm(visited July 1, 2010).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Animal Trainer, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/details/39-2011.00 (visited July 1, 2010).
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