Top 20 Exciting Animal Care Jobs

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is an 11% growth in employment opportunities for animal care and service workers between 2014 and 2024, which is faster than average for all occupations. More advanced positions in the field might have increased job growth because environmental conservation has become more popular.

Zoologist

Zoologists provide data that shapes wildlife conservation and preservation policy, work with animals extensively and spend time crunching numbers. Zoologists and wildlife biologists typically develop and conduct experimental studies with animals in controlled or natural surroundings. They collect biological data and specimens for analysis. They study the characteristics of animals, such as their interactions with other species, reproduction, population dynamics, diseases, and movement patterns. They analyze the influence that human activity has on wildlife and their natural habitats. They estimate, monitor, and manage wildlife populations and invasive plants and animals. They write research papers, reports, and scholarly articles that explain their findings. They give presentations on research findings to academics and the general public. They develop conservation plans and make recommendations on wildlife conservation and management issues to policymakers and the general public. Zoologists and wildlife biologists perform a variety of scientific tests and experiments. For example, they take blood samples from animals to assess their levels of nutrition, check animals for disease and parasites, and tag animals in order to track them. Zoologists and wildlife biologists use geographic information systems (GIS), modelling software, and other computer programs to estimate wildlife populations and track the movements of animals. They also use these computer programs to forecast the spread of invasive species, diseases, changes in the availability of habitat, and other potential threats to wildlife. Zoologists and wildlife biologists need a bachelor’s degree for entry-level positions, but a master’s degree is often needed for advancement. A Ph.D. is necessary for independent research and for university research jobs. Knowledge of computer science is important because zoologists and wildlife biologists frequently use advanced computer software to do their work. Some zoologists and wildlife biologists may need to have good outdoors skills. They may need to be able to drive a tractor, use a generator, or provide for themselves in remote locations. Starting salaries depend on the person’s education. Those with bachelor’s degrees earn around $45,460. Those with doctoral degrees start out in the $57,000 to $74,000 range.

Service dog trainer

Besides teaching dogs to assist the disabled in certain functions, trainers familiarize dogs with human interaction and teach basic obedience skills, such as walking in pace with handlers and sitting on command. The training process is made up of many small tasks, each with instruction techniques. For example, some trainers may use the bridge technique, which involves rewarding dogs every time they perform certain actions successfully. Trainers also give the dogs physical and mental exercise during the training. After training is complete, they match dogs with their owners and teach the two to work together. Individuals may teach dogs basic skills as apprentices for up to four years under the guidance of experienced instructors. Once they master training skills, apprentices may take on greater responsibilities and become instructors. University courses in animal behavior, biology and psychology are not required for all positions but can be good preparation for aspiring trainers. Professionals usually are paid $15 an hour, according to U.S. Department of Labor. Guide Dogs of America lists trainer’s starting salaries, post-apprenticeship, as similar to those of teachers. In some states, guide dog trainers must be licensed. For example, in California, becoming licensed involves successful completion of a set of exams and three years as an apprentice. California guide dog trainers must maintain licensure by taking continuing education courses. Dog schools may administer their own exams and field tests to apprentice service dog trainers. Additional tests may be required to advance to instructor positions.

Wolf biologist

Wolf biologists spend as much time educating others and raising funds as they do interacting with wolves. Physical interaction with pack members and excellent writing and research skills are required. Wolf biologists are a specific type of wildlife biologist – a scientist employed to observe and study wolf behavior. They spend time in the field observing the wolves and their interactions with each other, the effects of human interaction, prey animals, the ecology, the wolves life histories, diseases, development, genetics and distribution. Wolves are an endangered species in many parts of the world, suffering from removal from highlands and extensive woodland areas and forest, especially in North America. Like most endangered species, wolves require constant monitoring and protection. Wolf biologists make recommendations on management systems and planning for wolf populations and habitat, consulting with stakeholders and the public. Wolf biologists study wolves in their natural habitats, assessing the effects of the environment and industry on individual animals and packs. They estimate wolf populations in a given area. They distribute information by writing reports and scientific papers or journal articles. They make presentations and give talks at schools, clubs, interest groups and park interpretive programs. They stay informed on current research and scientific literature in the field of wildlife biology. They coordinate preventative programs to control the outbreak of disease among a protected population. Wolf biologists who have several years of working experience may take on more managerial tasks to coordinate research or become an advocate for wolf conservation efforts. The wolf biologist’s duties may include the temporary capture of wolves for medical monitoring, tagging and recording. They are important in the reintroduction of wolves to conservation areas and preserving environments where wolves thrive. It is a great job for people who enjoy working outdoors, in wild environments and sometimes alone. America’s statistics department lists $60,520 per month as the average salary for wildlife biologists, which include wolf biologists. The lowest 10% of earners were reported to have a salary in the region of $39,150 per month while the highest 10% group of earners reportedly had a salary of $98,540 per month.

Dog or cat breeder

Dog breeders are responsible for a variety of daily duties related to caring for the needs of their dogs. These tasks may include cleaning kennels or runs, feeding, grooming, bathing, providing fresh water, giving medications or supplements, assisting with problem births, maintaining breeding records, studying pedigrees, assisting with breeding (e.g., artificial insemination), and registering dogs with the local breeding club or other relevant breed associations. Dog breeders must also work closely with veterinarians to ensure that their dogs receive proper health care and nutrition. They work with groomers to trim their dogs in the appropriate style for the breed or learn how to clip and style their dogs themselves. Dog breeders use their knowledge of canine pedigree to select superior animals for their stock. Responsible breeders have their breeding animals genetically tested for hereditary defects common to their specific breed, and will provide proof of these tests to people interested in purchasing puppies from them. Many breeders also compete with their breeding stock (and/or their progeny) at dog shows, either showing the dogs themselves or enlisting the services of a professional handler. While no university degree is necessary to start a career as a dog breeder, some breeders do have animal-related or business-related degrees. Degrees in areas such as animal science, animal reproduction, or biology may prove useful. Coursework for these degrees may include studying topics in anatomy, physiology, genetics, nutrition, reproduction, genetics, behavior, and production. Courses in marketing, advertising, communication, and technology are also beneficial for those who are running their own business venture. The salary for a dog breeder varies widely based on the number of litters their dogs produce per year, the quality of the breeding stock, the going rate for puppies of a particular breed, and the breeder’s reputation in the industry. Some breeds command higher prices than others due to limited supply, such as new cross-bred dogs. Some breeders command higher prices because they have top quality stock from championship lines, especially when this has been demonstrated at major shows. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that animal breeders in the United States earn an annual wage of $40,310 per month. While it is possible to earn a living by just breeding dogs, most breeders earn additional income by offering dog training, grooming, or boarding kennel services at their facility.

Dog walker/pet sitter

A pet sitter cares for pets in their own homes while the owners are working or travelling. Typical tasks include putting out food, changing water bowls, cleaning litter boxes and providing companionship. Some sitters work for an hour or two while others stay overnight in a client’s home. No experience is required to do this kind of work. The average salary is $51,9488 per month. A dog walker is one of the most common jobs involving dogs. Plenty of owners hire professional dog walkers to make sure their canine friends get their daily dose of exercise. Walkers take the dogs out, clean up after them, and make sure they behave appropriately in public areas. In cities like Toronto and Vancouver, dog walkers need a permit to be out and about with more than three dogs at a time. The average salary is $30,1185 per month.

Marine biologist

Marine biologists study marine (sea) organisms in their natural habitats. They may investigate a population’s behaviors or physiology. They may assess the condition of marine habitats and the effects of human activity on those animals and habitats. This job can involve travel and scuba diving! Plus, you might study plants as well as animals. A marine biologist’s research typically involves conducting species inventories, testing and monitoring sea creatures exposed to pollutants, collecting and testing ocean samples, preserving specimens and samples of unknown species and diseases, and mapping the distribution, ranges, or movements of marine populations. In some cases, they may recommend alternative industrial practices to minimize negative effects on marine species and habitats. They may also communicate their findings and recommendations by writing reports and scientific journal articles. Some marine biologists specialize in marine biotechnology. In other words, they investigate the adaptations and advantages of marine species and how they might be applied to industrial processes. For instance, one biotech company has mimicked the structure of shark skin to create doorknobs that germs and viruses such as MRSA can’t attach to. This is a promising and interesting area of the field. While the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t collect data on marine biologists specifically, they are included with zoologists and wildlife biologists. The average annual wage for these professionals was $64 or $32 hourly. Those employed by the federal government and in academia earned more than those in state government and other sectors.

Veterinary pathologist

Veterinary pathologists are veterinarians who take additional training to specialize in animal diseases. They use specialized lab equipment to examine animal tissues and fluids for signs of disease, perform necropsies to determine how an animal died, and conduct research into ways to treat and prevent diseases. Some veterinary pathologists play critical roles in cancer research and combating bioterrorism. Others investigate after oil spills, nuclear power accidents and homicides. In food-producing animals, veterinary pathologists diagnose diseases to keep herds healthy and determine risks to consumers. Others serve key roles in pharmaceutical research and help develop safe drugs. Veterinary pathologist job descriptions vary widely. However, good communication skills are typically a requirement. Veterinary pathologists write a lot of reports and must be able to communicate good and bad news to others. In Canada, veterinary pathologists must be certified by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. Those who have certification get greater interest from employers than those without it. Aspiring veterinary pathologists need to be good at sciences such as chemistry and math, and complete an undergrad degree with high grades. Then they complete a four-year veterinary college program, and follow that up with a residency lasting at least three years. Sometimes they do additional postgraduate work. The average monthly salary is $87,5694.

Veterinary ophthalmologist

Another potential area of specialization for licensed veterinarians is ophthalmology, which focuses on problems affecting the eyes. Veterinary ophthalmologists diagnose and treat conditions like glaucoma, conjunctivitis, and cataracts. They conduct routine eye exams, diagnose eye conditions and perform surgery when necessary. They document information for case studies and animal patient reports. They provide specialty consulting services regarding eye issues to other veterinarians. Veterinary ophthalmologists begin their careers in veterinary school to pursue a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. After becoming licensed, a vet can begin the path of study that will lead to board certification in the specialty field of ophthalmology. This process is not easy. A candidate must first complete a one-year internship in their related field. After successfully completing the internship, they must then undertake a three-year residency in the field, either at a veterinary teaching hospital or at a clinic working under the supervision of a board certified ophthalmology diplomate. Certified ophthalmologists must also complete continuing education credits each year in order to maintain their board-certified status and to keep their knowledge of changes in the field as current as possible. These credits can be earned by attending lectures, participating in wet labs, and going to specialty-related seminars. Veterinary ophthalmologists in the U.S. earn an average monthly salary of $84,242.5 in private practice. Residency salaries generally range from $25,000 to $35,000 per year.

Pet groomer

Grooming is about giving pets (mostly dogs) a healthy and attractive appearance. Pet groomers brush and comb fur, apply shampoo and conditioner, cut nails, clean ears, trim hair, and sometimes brush teeth. They work in pet stores and pet grooming boutiques. They are great with animals and people, listening to the owners’ requests for how they want their pet to look, and keeping the animals calm in what can be a stressful situation. Pet groomers must also keep their work area clean, which, when working with dog hair, means lots and lots of sweeping. They also take payment and may have to work cash registers. Besides a matric, you don’t need formal training for this job. In America, there are state-licensed grooming schools available to get ahead of the competition. Certification is not always required. The average monthly salary is $27,0406.

Wildlife photographer

Wildlife photographers produce images of animals or plants in their natural environments. These portraits often convey a larger picture of life in the wild. In order to do so, wildlife photographers may enhance the photographs or the image through natural or artificial means. From altering the light to utilizing various cameras and lenses, wildlife photographers understand how to produce compelling images through the tools and techniques at their disposal. Finally, wildlife photographers understand how to coax the best images out of a variety of environments and conditions, using equipment that might counteract difficulties or enhance the focus in any natural setting. Patience and adaptability are the name of the game for wildlife photographers. Capturing images of animals in their natural environment means spending long periods of time waiting for your subjects to appear—but when they do, you need to be ready. Photographers must not interfere with the subjects of their photographs, nor should they put themselves or their subjects in danger. They should have minimal impact on their environment, taking care to try to maintain their surroundings as they found them. Wildlife photographers must also understand the importance of designing and displaying the images to best convey the message of their photographs. Photographers may employ digital techniques to enhance their images in print, and they may also work on printing the images on the type of surface that best allows the images captured to appear lifelike and natural. Depending on the type and stock of film used, photographers can develop their own prints or outsource development to a separate company or individual. Photography training is important, but biology courses that focus on animal behaviour can also be useful. A grasp on cultural context, geography, history and customs is essential. Depending on the type of employment, wildlife photographers who work for a company or publication may need a college degree. For those interested in freelance work, a number of community colleges, organizations and even wildlife photography magazines offer courses and workshops. Prospective wildlife photographers are often encouraged to pursue positions as assistants to photographers as a form of on-the-job training. Since many wildlife photographers are self-employed and work on a freelance basis, their salaries vary widely by year and individual. Salaries typically start from $10.16 per hour and go up to $37.17 per hour.

Police dog handler

Dog handlers may find employment with search and rescue teams, the military and police departments. These professionals complete specialized dog handling courses so that they can recognize and interpret canine behavior, sounds and stances. Many police forces across Canada have K9 units where officers utilize the skills of their specially trained canine partners to locate missing people, track suspects, detect drugs, or sniff out explosives. Most handlers have a background in law enforcement, customs inspection, agriculture, animal science, or a related field, though requirements can vary from one agency to the next. A background as a K-9 police officer, animal health inspector or wildlife inspector could be an extra plus for a candidate shifting to this career path. Explosives dog handling pairs in the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) program go through an eleven-week training program at Lakland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. After completing the course, the dog and handler pairs spend another 30 days at their assigned location to become familiar with the area where they will be working. During this period, they complete many training scenarios, work on desensitizing the dog to normal noises at the facility, and seek to challenge the dog by decreasing the sample size they are tasked with detecting in practice runs. There is an annual re-certification program for TSA explosive detection dog teams. The National Narcotic Detector Dog Association (NNDDA) is a professional group that offers annual detection dog certification courses to law enforcement professionals, government officers (at federal, state, or local levels), and private investigators. In the U.S. Department of Agriculture, candidates must begin as entry-level customs officers or inspectors (GS-7 pay grade) and gain experience in the field of inspection before they are allowed to apply for canine positions. Once they advance to the GS-12 pay grade ($60,274 to $78,355), they are eligible to be trained for dog handling positions. According to the government website USAJOBS.gov, explosive detection dog handlers earn from $47,000 to $98,500 at major U.S. airports. Handlers with the USDA begin at a pay grade of GS-12 (salary range of $60,274 to $78,355).

Therapeutic riding instructor

Horses can contribute to the physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being of humans. Therapeutic riding instructors use horseback riding to help children and adults with disabilities develop mobility and balance, improve muscle tone, and foster a sense of achievement. To become a recreational therapist, you might be able to get by with an associate’s degree. However, a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s is preferred. Other types of professional therapist positions require university degrees. It will be useful to get training in funding, business management and administration. North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) guidelines recommend that any therapist offering hippotherapy be licensed or registered. The term hippotherapy refers to how occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech-language pathology professionals use the manipulation of horse movement as a therapy tool to engage sensory, neuromotor and cognitive systems to help people function better. To get certified in hippotherapy, you must be a licensed physical therapist, occupational therapist or speech-language pathologist, have hippotherapy experience and pass an exam. The average hourly earning is $19.20.

Conservation officer

Common tasks of conservation officers are patrolling natural areas and investigating cases of illegal hunting or fishing. They have all the authority of police officers and are responsible for enforcing government regulations related to protecting wildlife. They also educate the public about conservation issues. Nature conservation officers (a.k.a. biodiversity officers) are responsible for ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources and environments. Nature conservation officers help the environmental policy-making process and the implementation of conservation strategies. They consult to environmental charities, commercial organisations, nature reserves, government departments and executive agencies, helping them decide where is best to focus their conservation efforts. They provide a balanced viewpoint in the nature versus urban development debate. Law enforcement training can be useful, as can courses in natural resource management. A bachelor’s degree in natural science, criminal justice or related field may be preferred. The average monthly salary is $4, 366.

Apiarist or beekeeper

An apiarist/ beekeeper cares for bees and collects the honey they produce. Since bees are fairly independent animals, the apiarist’s job of caring for them doesn’t usually include providing clean water and plants to pollinate. Instead, apiarists maintain hives, recapture them if they swarm, and help protect them against cold snaps. You might grow specific plants nearby for them to pollinate, but this is only necessary if you’re trying to influence the taste of the honey, creating something exotic like lavender honey. The main thing an apiarist is concerned about is timing. Just like any farmed product, honey has a season for preparing and a season for harvesting. Beehives are usually set up in the winter and collection happens in spring. While honey is the primary product that comes from a hive, you might also collect honeycomb. You harvest by carefully opening up the hive and then cutting the tops off the individual combs to let the honey pour out. While you’re harvesting, you wear a long-sleeved, white suit which includes a mesh mask that covers your face. The color of the suit means you’re not a predator, and the mask and long sleeves protect you from getting stung. Bee stings are an occupational hazard in this job, so if you’re allergic to bees, you should probably look for another job. Mostly beekeeping skills are learned on the job. Employers may support beekeepers in gaining their heavy trade and forklift licences or assist them to complete training courses, such as disease control. Beekeepers may do a certificate in beekeeping. A degree in zoology may be useful. If you work for a commercial beekeeping organization, such as one where your job is to keep the hives healthy while keeping track of honey, wax, and royal jelly production, the pay is a bit more likely to be the career’s salary average of about $72,000 a year. It just depends on where you live and what the economy is like there.

Aquarist

An aquarium lets people see deep-sea creatures without requiring them to undergo scuba diver training. Spectators can stay dry and gaze at the fish as they swim. An aquarist sets up these exhibits and makes sure the creatures stay healthy in this artificial environment. Working as an aquarist means spending a significant amount of time in a wet environment. In some aquarist positions, you can simply lean over the tanks to do your work. In other positions you have to strap on diving gear to accomplish your tasks. Each day you check the water in the aquarium to avoid dangerous chemicals building up in the water. Taking out some water and replacing it with a fresh supply can help to avoid imbalances. Adding in chemicals and salts may also be required. Additionally, you check that the water is at the proper temperature, and you adjust heaters when needed to keep the temperature constant. Algae can build up on the glass and block the creatures from view. It’s your job to scrape it away. Sometimes you add items to the exhibit to make it fun for viewers. Chests of gold or plastic mermaids may not be realistic, but they’re crowd pleasers. As you work, you look closely at the fish, turtles, snails, and other creatures in the exhibit to make sure they’re healthy. If you spot a problem, you notify the aquarium curator so a veterinarian can be called in to provide medical treatment. Some creatures eat plants that you provide, while others eat food that you toss into the tank. Most positions within the field require a bachelor’s degree in zoology, marine biology or a related field. Undergraduate students looking to break into the field may have a better chance if they gain relevant work experience through an internship at an aquarium. In addition, aquarists will need to get a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR for heart and lungs) certification and scuba diving certification. The average annual salary for aquarists is $44,219.

Farrier

If you love being around horses, you might enjoy working as a farrier. As a farrier, you load up your tools; drive to the ranch, farm, or other location; and put shoes on horses’ feet.

Your first task as a farrier is to build a client base. After all, you can’t run a business without customers. If you do your job well, you’ll soon have repeat customers to fill your calendar with appointments. Before heading out to the jobsite, you call to confirm your visit so the horse owner will be available to assist you. Once you arrive, you unload your tools and start working. The owner generally restrains the horse so you can do your work. You start by inspecting the way the horse stands. Just as people put inserts in their shoes to compensate for foot shape or to improve the way they stand, you can adjust the shape of the hoof for the same effect. Next, you use specialized tools to clean, file, and trim each hoof. If the horse wears horseshoes, you fit them and attach them with nails. Organization is a key requirement in this position. You need to make sure you always have the right supplies, and that they are organized so you can, for example, find the right size nail in a moment’s notice. In addition, you need to be comfortable bending, getting dirty, and roughing up your hands. For those just starting out in the business, there are a number of shoeing courses that teach the basics of equine foot care, along with some classes on equine anatomy, physiology, conformation, and behavior. More important than academics, you will need to work as an apprentice for about 4 years. The training will help you fine-tune your skills while getting advice and assistance from a seasoned professional. Certification is not required for this profession but most farriers belong to at least one professional group. The average salary is $42 per hour. While salaries may vary widely based on geographic location and type of work, this field is well known in the equine industry for its very solid earning potential. While the gross salary may be substantial, a farrier must also consider the costs of maintaining his business. These considerations include expenses such as insurance, trade association membership fees, truck maintenance, gas and equipment replacement or repair.

Ichthyologist

The job title ‘ichthyologist’ is an umbrella term that refers to all types of workers who study fish. An ichthyologist might travel the globe discovering new species, gather samples from the local pond, or use a microscope in the lab. As an ichthyologist working at a university, you might spend time in the research facility, or teach classes in biology and ecology. You could work at an aquarium studying fish environments, breeding or behavior. In the lab, you dissect fish, study organs, evaluate environmental factors, or work to understand how different structural parts of the fish benefit it. Outside the lab, you wear a wetsuit and dive to the bottom of rivers, lakes, and oceans to gather samples and observe fish behavior. In a museum, you work to identify, classify, and preserve fish for display and historical record. For environmental or government agencies you perform research and work to preserve species. At fish hatcheries you study fish environments, work to increase reproduction, and identify and treat diseases. This job requires a love of the outdoors coupled with an analytical mind. With such a wide range of positions available, you can build a career in the field starting as a research assistant, lab assistant, field assistant or fish hatchery technician. As you gain more experience and earn higher education, you can move into positions like fish hatchery manager, fish culturist or biologist. With a little luck and a lot of research, you might even discover a new breed of fish for the record books. You will need to complete a bachelor’s degree in zoology or marine biology. Consider getting a master’s or doctoral degree, specifically in the field of ichthyology. Graduate degrees are often essential if you want to be considered for positions in education or research. Required courses for any university degree in the biological sciences typically include biology, chemistry, anatomy and physiology, statistics, communications, computer technology, marine science, animal science, veterinary science, animal behavior, animal husbandry and ecology. Open-water diving skills and the necessary certifications are required for working in this field. Marine internships can help you gain practical experience in the field while completing your undergraduate studies. Many research organizations offer internship programs for aspiring marine scientists, and some opportunities have a stipend or other compensation. The salary for ichthyologists may vary widely based on factors such as the type of employment, the level of education completed, the geographic area where the position is located, and the specific duties associated with the position. The average monthly salary is $63.

Habitat specialist

A habitat specialist is a zoologist who designs and builds homes for animals in zoos. When you’re a habitat specialist, sometimes known as a zoo designer, you’re an expert in both animals and environments. If the monkeys need a new tree to swing from, for instance, you decide. If the lions need a cave to keep them cool, you decide. Should the seals earn themselves a new rock formation on which to sunbathe, you decide. In collaboration with animal curators, you design zoo exhibits. You’re in charge of developing the landscape the animals will live in. Your goal in doing so is mimicking as closely as possible the animals’ natural habitat, which assists in their health and happiness in captivity. As a result, you spend your days studying animals’ native environments, then re-creating them with the appropriate plants, water supplies, and geographical features, while ensuring that there’s appropriate space for shelter and exercise. Whether the animals come from Africa or Antarctica, it’s your job to convince them that they’re still at home, even when they’re far from it! In most cases, a zoo habitat designer holds a degree in architecture or landscape architecture. Some have an additional degree (or significant experience) in zoology, wildlife biology, animal behavior, or another animal-related field. A designer should also have significant experience with computer-aided design (CAD) He should know how to obtain necessary permits and complete construction documentation. Knowledge of animal behavior and physical requirements is beneficial, though this information can also be acquired through research and discussion with zoo professionals. There are many zoo related internship opportunities that could be done to get experience and knowledge of animal behavior. Internships involving landscape and architecture work are also extremely valuable. Salaries can vary widely based on the size of the project, the financial backing of the institution and the specific responsibilities involved. The average annual salary is $45,460.

Animal nutritionist

Animal nutritionists are animal scientists who formulate diets for specific types of animals. They may focus on agricultural, companion or zoo animals. They usually work for universities, scientific research firms, pharmaceutical companies, zoos, veterinarians, and animal food manufacturing companies. They may serve as consultants to farmers, teaching them which feed products may best improve the quality and quantity of their animal products. Most of them have doctoral degrees. Animal nutritionists need to have a strong understanding of a number of scientific disciplines, including animal behavior, chemistry, physics, economics and food processing techniques. Animal nutritionists must keep in mind the age, breed, nutritional needs and taste preferences of the animal for which they are formulating food. They must also consider cost and create economically-viable food. The average annual salary is $72,702. Salaries vary by industry and location. Scientists who worked in research and development services earned the highest median salary of $97,380.

Wildlife educator

Wildlife educators work in all types of settings such as wildlife stations, zoos, national parks, etc. Their primary job consists of educating people of all ages on a wide variety of subjects about animals and/or their care. They are comfortable working with children. They have good public speaking and communication skills. They are good at developing curricula, lesson plans, and schedules. They know how to maintain the hygiene and welfare of the animals and their environment/housing. Acceptable areas of study for this job include education, biology, veterinary technology, environmental science, ecology, zoology, disease, toxicology, and any other related field. Wildlife educators who plan to teach in public high schools need to have a teaching qualification. If they want to lecture university students they must have a post graduate degree. While they work they complete a Ph.D. program. Many employers prefer that students have a background or experience in wildlife education, but it is not always necessary. Experience with animal husbandry often is a major advantage, but again, it’s not always required. The average salary is $10 per hour.