Hi there,
I read this interesting website about becoming a dolphin trainer and what is involved. I thought I would share some of the insights in case you are interested.
Dolphin Trainers at Work
How should I prepare educationally for my training career?
There are really no specific colleges for marine mammal training. Moorpark College in California does focus on exotic animal training in a two-year program. The school is extremely hands-on, and graduates have a great success rate of employment. Please bear in mind, however, that some marine mammal facilities require a four-year degree for employment.
The college you choose will depend on your interests. You must first decide the area in which you would like to major. Your library will have a book of colleges to help you determine the schools in the U.S. that offer your Marine Education intended major. Look for schools that offer biology or animal behavior and psychology majors.
What other skills do I need to be a trainer?
Every facility has a different philosophy and mission and therefore looks for different skills in their employees. At many dolphin facilities public speaking skills will be very important. Take classes that will advance your public speaking skills and knowledge of the animals and environment in which you will be working. Physical fitness is also important and because you will be working in an aquatic environment, swimming skills will be required. Many facilities required a swim test before you will be hired. Additionally, you should become SCUBA certified since some facilities only hire trainers if they are SCUBA certified.
Should I volunteer or intern?
Yes! It can be quite difficult to get your foot in the door of a marine mammal facility. The best way to gain valuable hands–on experience is to complete volunteer work or an internship at a facility that has animals (they don’t necessarily have to be dolphins). Many colleges require or strongly advise these programs because they enable you to learn while in the field. Click here to see dolphin places to intern.
What are the average salary and benefits of a trainer?
The average salary of a trainer varies from one facility to another but is often in the $18,000-$20,000 range for an entry-level position. Most trainers have a second source of income to supplement their salary.
Higher salaries are often given to people with multiple years of experience; on average a trainer with 8-12 years of experience will make $25,000 - $40,000 a year. Most facilities usually offer medical plans to full-time staff members. Of course, the greatest benefit is the relationship you form with the animals!
What is a typical day like being a dolphin trainer?
Only dependable people can be successful trainers. Trainers are responsible for preparing meals, feeding, training, cleaning fish containers, and stimulating marine mammals both physically and mentally. The dolphins and trainers have training sessions each day, which are both mentally and physically stimulating. All trainers at DRC vary the dolphins with which they work. All of the dolphins receive at least three meals a day – usually a feeding in the morning, midday and afternoon.
Trainers also make sure that all of our animals receive their vitamins and any necessary medications. The dolphins also practice medical behaviors with their trainers, and each dolphin has a physical twice a year. As a trainer you need to show a great deal of enthusiasm and energy to keep the dolphins excited and interested. Trainers may continue to work on behaviors that have already been taught to the dolphins or they may have the opportunity (after they have gained much experience) to train a dolphin a new behavior. Each day brings something new to a trainer’s schedule. Life is never dull when you are a dolphin trainer!
Dolphin Handlers Meeting
What books or references would help me to find out more about training and other careers in the marine mammal field?
“Careers in Marine Biology”, Jay Hemdal (freshwater and Marine Aquarium, Vol 10, Feb. 1987, pg. 66-67).
“Don’t Shoot the Dog”, Karen Pryor (Bantam Books, 1999).
“I’ll do Anything to Work with Whales or Dolphins!”, Valerie Chase (Current, 1992, 11 (1): 31-33).
“Training and Careers in Marine Science: An Information Packet”
Available for a small fee from:
International Oceanographic Foundation
4600 Rickenbacker Causeway
Miami , FL 33149
The biggest thing I can add is make sure you internship. This is the KEY in getting a job!!
Was this article helpful to you?
God Bless,
John
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
