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Animal Behavior Research Assistant Jobs in Addison, IL

Dundee Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career. What You'll Do: * Assist keepers with daily animal care ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career. What You'll Do: * Assist keepers with daily animal care ...

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career. What You'll Do: * Assist keepers with daily animal care ...

Dundee Township Park District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career. What You'll Do: * Assist keepers with daily animal care ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career. What You'll Do: * Assist keepers with daily animal care ...

NorthShore

Research Assistant-OBGYN

Evanston, IL · On-site

$18.84 - $27.32/hr

The Research Assistant plays a key role in supporting and contributing to research initiatives ... vivo animal studies conducted in accordance with institutional and humane care guidelines)

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Animal Behavior Research Assistant information

What does an animal behavior research assistant do?

An Animal Behavior Research Assistant helps scientists study how animals act and interact with their environment, other animals, and humans. Their tasks often include observing animals, collecting and recording behavioral data, setting up experiments, and sometimes handling or caring for animals. They may work in laboratories, zoos, wildlife reserves, or in the field. This role is essential for advancing our understanding of animal behavior, which can inform conservation efforts, animal welfare, and scientific research.

What are some common challenges faced by animal behavior research assistants in fieldwork settings?

Animal Behavior Research Assistants often encounter unpredictable factors during fieldwork, such as sudden changes in animal activity, weather conditions, and difficult terrain. These challenges require adaptability and patience, as data collection schedules may need to be adjusted on short notice. Additionally, assistants must maintain meticulous records and follow strict protocols to ensure data accuracy, even under less-than-ideal circumstances. Collaboration with other researchers and effective communication are key to overcoming these obstacles and achieving research goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal behavior research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Behavior Research Assistant, you typically need a background in biology, psychology, or animal science, with experience in research methods and data collection. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, behavioral coding tools, and laboratory or field equipment is essential. Strong observation skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you accurately record findings and collaborate with research teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing reliable research outcomes and contributing meaningfully to scientific understanding of animal behavior.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior Research Assistant vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Behavior Research AssistantAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in biology, psychology, or related fieldOften requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, or animal behavior studiesAnimal shelters, veterinary clinics, zoos, or research facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizations, animal behavior studiesAnimal shelters, veterinary practices, zoos, pet care facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Animal Behavior Research Assistant primarily focuses on studying animal behavior through experiments and data analysis, often requiring a background in science or psychology. In contrast, the Animal Care Technician provides hands-on care and daily management of animals in shelters or clinics. While both roles involve working with animals, their work environments, responsibilities, and required credentials differ significantly.

What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Addison, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Addison, IL are:

What cities near Addison, IL are hiring for Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Addison, IL with the most Animal Behavior Research Assistant job openings:

Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research Assistant job openings in Addison, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL • On-site

Dundee Park District
Crop Farming • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Dundee Park Districtexternal

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Zoo Intern

Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting?

Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more than 160 animals while gaining valuable real-world experience. This unpaid internship is ideal for college students or recent graduates pursuing a career in zoology, animal science, or a related field.

Why Join Us?

As a Zoo Intern, you'll work alongside experienced keepers to learn the daily operations of a zoo, including animal care, husbandry, enrichment, and guest interaction. You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career.

What You'll Do:

  • Assist keepers with daily animal care, including feeding and cleaning
  • Help prepare diets and monitor animal behavior
  • Create enrichment activities to support animal well-being
  • Assist with light maintenance and construction projects
  • Support educational presentations and special events for zoo guests
  • Keep accurate records and follow all safety protocols
  • Represent the Dundee Township Park District in a professional and positive manner
  • Complete an animal behavior research project and final zoo project

What You Bring:

  • Current college student or recent graduate (within 2 years) in Zoology or related field
  • At least 2 years of undergraduate coursework preferred
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs., bend, stoop, and stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
  • Strong communication skills and professionalism when working with guests and staff
  • Problem-solving ability and composure in high-stress or emergency situations
  • Spanish-speaking skills a plus!

Schedule:

This seasonal internship requires 250 hours over 10–12 weeks. Interns must select a set shift for the full duration of the program. Shifts include:

  • 7:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
  • 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Evenings, weekends, and holidays may be required.

In Exchange for Your Time and Talent, We Offer:

  • Select one of the following:
    • Individual Fitness Center (100-day) pass OR
    • Family Season Pass at Dolphin Cove Aquatic Center OR
    • Family Season Pass at Randall Oaks Zoo and Park
  • Free/discounted District programs, merchandise and concessions
  • Credit Union

If you're passionate about animals, eager to learn, and ready to contribute to a positive guest and animal experience, apply today to become a Zoo Intern with Dundee Township Park District!

Please note: This is an unpaid Internship Opportunity.

Apply