Working at a dolphin training facility can be quite physically demanding. You will need sufficient stamina to spend long hours training the dolphins at poolside or in the water. You may regularly haul buckets of fish to the food preparation station and out to the dolphin feeding area.
What jobs involve working with dolphins?
Below are several popular job possibilities for those interested in pursuing a marine career.
- Marine Mammal Trainer. Marine mammal trainers work with many different species such as dolphins, whales, seals, and sea lions.
- Marine Biologist.
- Ichthyologist.
- Aquaculture Farmer.
- Wildlife Veterinarian.
What are dolphin trainers called?
Marine mammal trainers use operant conditioning (positive reinforcement techniques) to train the animals in their care. They also are responsible for providing appropriate physical and mental exercises to keep animals healthy and happy. They may also be called to assist with sick or injured animals.
How do I become a dolphin trainer without a degree?
Because there are no undergraduate programs specifically in dolphin training, employers typically seek candidates with a degree in life science, such as biology, zoology, marine biology or animal science.
What kind of degree do you need to train a dolphin?
There is no degree specifically in dolphin training, but dolphin trainers may have a degree in animal husbandry, biology, animal sciences or marine biology. Even with a degree, there are a limited amount of dolphin trainer jobs out there, so it helps to have hands-on experience with large animals.
Do you have to love Dolphins to be a trainer?
You love dolphins, so that’s good. You also need to have a love for the other marine animals. You may only want to work with dolphins but chances are that you will work with a variety of species during your career. This means killer whales, sea lions, and penguins are fair game and you should start accepting that working with them is very likely.
How much money can you make as a dolphin trainer?
A trainer with 8-12 years of experience can make $25,000-$40,000 a year. Many trainers stay in the profession out of a love for working with dolphins and the opportunity to form long lasting relationships with them. Be aware of the role expectations for a dolphin trainer.
What kind of degree do you need to become a marine mammal trainer?
Note that educational institutions do not offer a marine mammal trainer specialty. However, aquariums, zoos and training facilities accept a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, animal behavior or another life science. You can expect courses in biology, marine animal physiology, marine mammalogy, oceanography and animal behavior.
