Trainer (Aquarium)
とれーなー（すいぞくかん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that conducts behavioral training for marine animals such as dolphins, sea lions, and fish kept in aquariums, and handles exhibition programs, show performances, animal health management, and educational outreach activities.
Description
The Aquarium Trainer emphasizes the health and behavioral welfare of marine animals, implementing training using positive reinforcement for dolphins, sea lions, and others. They handle daily husbandry management, water quality adjustments, animal health checks, creation and analysis of behavior records, and plan and operate show performances and exhibition programs. They collaborate with veterinarians, husbandry staff, and education/outreach staff to provide visitor explanations and experiential programs. From the perspectives of safety management and animal welfare, they incorporate environmental enrichment and design psychological and physical stimulation for individual animals.
Future Outlook
With growing interest in marine life and aquariums, and increasing emphasis on conservation and education programs, demand for specialized husbandry and training skills is expected to remain stable. On the other hand, new skills and knowledge based on animal welfare and environmental conservation will be required.
Personality Traits
Adaptable / Good Team Player / Has Keen Observation Skills / Loves Animals / Patient
Work Style
Educational Outreach Activities / Indoor and Outdoor Work / Physically Demanding / Shift Work / Weekends and Holidays
Career Path
Assistant Trainer → Trainer → Senior Trainer → Curator/Husbandry Exhibition Manager → Aquarium Manager → Marine Biologist
Required Skills
Animal Welfare and Enrichment Program Planning / Husbandry Record Management / Marine Mammal Training Techniques / Operant Conditioning / Water Quality Management
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / Educational Outreach Methods / SCUBA Diving License / Video Editing
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Necessary to flexibly respond to changes in animal behavior and the environment |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Essential to not overlook changes in animals' health conditions |
| Communication Skills | Essential for collaborating with diverse staff and visitors |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Necessary to understand learning behaviors specific to species and individuals and acquire new techniques |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Required for standing work and underwater tasks |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical skills are not particularly necessary |
Related Qualifications
- Animal Handling Supervisor
Aliases
- Aqua Trainer
- Aquarium Husbandry Trainer
- Dolphin Trainer
Related Jobs
- Animal Keeper
- Marine Mammal Trainer
- Pet Trainer
- Veterinarian