It really amazes me that I am able to work with a menagerie of beautiful, dangerous, exotic animals and enjoy it as a lifestyle. Most people are curious as to how I became an animal trainer or how I am able to safely work with the animals I do. The answer is quite simple, dedication. Most people go to work to make a living and that's that. My career is my life and my life is animals. This means that unlike most people that work for 40 hours a weeks and then have the rest of the time to do as they please, I enjoy the life of animals every minute of every day. The same is true of the apprentices at T.I.G.E.R.S.

In order to learn how to safely work with potentially lethal animals, you must dedicate all of your time and effort to the animals. This is not something you can learn properly in 40 hours a week; this takes every moment of every day for you to observe and experience the animals. Even with great dedication and effort, it takes at least 10 years to become a proficient trainer. This is the point in my career that I have finally achieved. However, there are still many circumstances that I am waiting to experience. This lifestlye takes your continued dedication to the animals over all else.

Many people don't believe what is posted on the apprenticeship page. They think that it can't be true. It can't take all your time and effort. That's where they're wrong. Everything that is posted is the truth. You are basically going off to boot camp when you become an apprentice. Either it becomes your life, or this isn't the career for you. If you want a regular job with exotic animals become a zookeeper, not an animal trainer.

I have compiled a FAQ of the major questions I get about the apprenticeship program below:
 

1. How long does the application process take? In other words, how long after I send my resume and picture will I hear from you?

We are constantly reviewing all applications. After we receive your application, we will keep it on record for a year. The best thing to do is send your application, give it a few weeks to reach us, then email gemojungle@aol.com. Many times, we get so busy that we don't call all of the applicants. This way we can also answer any questions you have about the program and we can get to know you better.
2. How much free time do we get?

The apprenticeship program has been compared to boot camp. You are here experiencing life around the animals and their care 24/7/365. We do try and make it a point to have fun, but we often do not get much time to ourselves. There are many times of the year where you just don't have the opportunity to go out, since we are so busy.
3. So I will get holidays off to see my family and we get time off on the weekends, right?

Nope. This job is 24/7/365. If you plan on becoming an apprentice, plan on being here every day for at least 2 years without leaving. Except for extreme cases.
4. How much do we get paid and what are the perks?

As an apprentice, you are a volunteer learning to become a trainer. You get a weekly compensation of $100, the occasional use of an insured company vehicle, a place to stay, and exciting new neighbors.
5. I want to become an apprentice, but I have some pets I can't leave behind. Can I bring them with me?

No pets allowed. You will already have around 200 animals to devote your time and efforts to. You will not have the time or a place for your personal pets.
6. I want to become a tiger trainer, but am still too young. What can I do to prepare myself now?

Animal trainers must be athletic, physically fit, knowledgable, mentally focused, healthy individuals. This can be a highly strenuous and dangerous lifestyle. We recommend that you become active in sports and enroll in classes immediately, especially those that teach focus and balance like karate or dance. You should also work to educate yourself on the current global issues. We recommend that everyone start by reading the book Ishmael by Daniel Quinn and then read the rest of Ishmael series.

You can also gain experience by volunteering at your local zoo or humane society. It will be a good experience for you and they can always use the help.
7. I sent my resume in and I still haven't heard back from you. What's going on? 

If you have not hear from is, there are likely a few reasons. First, we only accept between 3 to 6 apprentices anually. All positions may be filled at this point. Second, if you sent in your resume and we received it, we may be reviewing your application. Sometimes this takes weeks. Third, we are very busy year-round and do not have the time to call all of the apprentices to interview them. If we haven't called you, likely you have not tried to email gemojungle@aol.com
8. Do most apprentices eventually work for T.I.G.E.R.S. after the initial two years or do they find work elsewhere?

Most of the people that finish the apprenticeship program choose to stay and continue working for us. One of the main concepts that most people don't realize about animal training is that it takes 10 years or more of being around the animals every day before you start to get good at it. It is much more a lifestyle than a job.
9. How many employees and apprentices does T.I.G.E.R.S. have?

We currently have over 20 full time employees and apprentices.