Train animals for riding, harness, security, performance, or obedience, or for assisting persons with disabilities. Accustom animals to human voice and contact, and condition animals to respond to commands. Train animals according to prescribed standards for show or competition. May train animals to carry pack loads or work as part of pack team.
Animal Trainers
SOC: 39-2011 O*NET: 39-2011.00
Median Salary
$38,750
per year
Job Growth
📈 5.1%
Faster (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
7.1
projected jobs/year
Education Level
High school diploma or equivalent
Job Zone 2
Train animals for riding, harness, security, performance, or obedience, or for assisting persons with disabilities. Accustom animals to human voice and contact, and condition animals to respond to commands. Train animals according to prescribed standards for show or competition. May train animals to carry pack loads or work as part of pack team.
Overview
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Distribution by Percentile
Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.
10th
$23,250
25th
$31,000
50th (Median)
$38,750
75th
$46,500
90th
$58,125
Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.
Typical Benefits Package
Health & Wellness
- ✓Health Insurance
- ✓Dental Insurance
- ✓Vision Insurance
- ✓Mental Health Support
- ✓Wellness Programs
Financial Benefits
- ✓401(k) Retirement Plan
- ✓Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
- ✓Profit Sharing
- ✓Stock Options
- ✓Performance Bonuses
Work-Life Balance
- ✓Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
- ✓Paid Sick Leave
- ✓Flexible Work Arrangements
- ✓Remote Work Options
- ✓Parental Leave
Professional Development
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement
- ✓Professional Certifications
- ✓Conference Attendance
- ✓Training Programs
- ✓Mentorship Opportunities
Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.
Job Market Intelligence
Job Market Intelligence
Medium Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk
Current Employment
National Employment:47,300
10-Year Outlook
Growth Rate:+5.1%
Annual Openings:7,100
Employment Projections
2024 (Current)47,300
Current
2034 (Projected)49,800
+5.1%
+2,400
Employment Change
+5.1%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection
Growth Category: As fast as average
Key Growth Factors
- •Average growth expected
Top Skills
✓
Instructing
Instructing
✓
Learning Strategies
Learning Strategies
✓
Speaking
Speaking
✓
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
✓
Active Learning
Active Learning
✓
Monitoring
Monitoring
✓
Judgment and Decision Making
Judgment and Decision Making
✓
Active Listening
Active Listening
✓
Social Perceptiveness
Social Perceptiveness
✓
Service Orientation
Service Orientation
Key Knowledge Areas
✓
Customer and Personal Service
✓
Education and Training
✓
Psychology
✓
Administration and Management
✓
English Language
Education & Training
Education Required
High school diploma or equivalent
Experience Required
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience may be helpful
Job Training
Training of a few months to a year