How to become a marine mammal trainer

Is becoming a marine mammal trainer right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do marine mammal trainers do?
Personality
What are marine mammal trainers like?

Still unsure if becoming a marine mammal trainer is the right career path? to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a marine mammal trainer or another similar career!

Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.

How to become a Marine Mammal Trainer

Becoming a marine mammal trainer typically requires a mix of education, hands-on experience, and specialized skills. While the path can vary, here are common steps to help you enter the field:

  • Obtain a Relevant Education: While a degree in marine mammal training is not usually required, a Bachelor’s in Biology, Zoology, Marine Biology, Psychology, or a related field provides a strong foundation. Courses in animal behavior, physiology, psychology, and marine mammal biology are especially useful.
  • Gain Experience with Animals: Volunteer or work at zoos, aquariums, marine parks, or rescue centers to develop hands-on skills in animal care, handling, and observation.
  • Pursue Internships or Apprenticeships: Apply for programs at marine mammal facilities where you can train under experienced professionals, work directly with animals, and build industry connections.
  • Obtain Certifications: Although optional, certifications from organizations like the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA) or the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA) can strengthen your qualifications. Additional certifications in SCUBA diving, CPR, and first aid are often valuable.
  • Build a Diverse Skill Set: Marine mammal trainers benefit from strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and observation skills. Knowledge of positive reinforcement training, animal husbandry, and water safety is essential, along with strong swimming ability.
  • Network Within the Industry: Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars, and join professional associations to connect with experienced trainers and stay informed about job opportunities.
  • Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Start with roles like animal care assistant, aquarist, or assistant trainer to gain practical experience and work your way up.
  • Continuously Develop Skills and Knowledge: Keep learning through workshops, courses, and professional journals to stay up to date on new techniques, research, and advancements in animal training and care.

Helpful Resources
Many organizations and tools can help you develop your skills, stay informed, and connect with other professionals in the field. Here are some of the most valuable:

  • Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums (AMMPA): An international association representing marine mammal parks, aquariums, zoos, and research institutions, offering resources, professional development opportunities, and industry guidelines.
  • International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA): A professional organization dedicated to advancing marine animal training and care, offering certifications, conferences, workshops, and educational materials.
  • Marine Mammal Trainer’s Resource Guide: A comprehensive reference book edited by Denise L. Herzing and published by IMATA, covering training techniques, behavior, and husbandry for aspiring and experienced trainers.
  • MarineBio Conservation Society: An online resource and community providing information on marine mammal species, behavior, research, and conservation, as well as educational articles and professional connections.
  • National Marine Mammal Foundation (NMMF): A non-profit organization focusing on research, conservation, and training related to marine mammals, offering studies, educational resources, and training programs.
  • Professional Journals: Publications such as Journal of Marine Animals and Their Ecology, Aquatic Mammals, and Marine Mammal Science offer peer-reviewed research on behavior, training, and conservation.
  • Professional Conferences and Workshops: Events hosted by organizations like AMMPA and IMATA provide opportunities to learn from experts, network, and stay current with industry advancements.
  • Online Forums and Social Media Groups: Communities like the Marine Mammal Trainer’s Forum on Facebook allow trainers to share experiences, seek advice, and exchange knowledge.