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Animal Behavior Research Assistant Jobs in Springfield, IL

Petco

Sales Specialist

Springfield, IL · On-site

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... You support store operations, assist leadership as needed, and help develop newer associates, all ...

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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 are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL?

For Animal Behavior Research Assistant jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

Cities near Springfield, 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 Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Sales Specialist

Springfield, IL • On-site

Petco
Retail • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Petcoexternal

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist customers in selecting products and services that meet their pets' needs.

  • Support store operations by processing sales, managing inventory, and maintaining store standards.

  • Mentor and support new and junior associates, and support leadership with operational tasks and customer concerns.

Petco rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 643 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Want to help pets live their best lives?
We're proud to be where the pets go and where the pet people go. If you want to make a real difference, create an exciting career path, feel welcome to be your whole self and nurture your wellbeing, Petco is the place for you.
Our core values capture that spirit as we work to improve lives by doing what's right for pets and people.
  • Pet First - Protect & Empower. All pets should Live their Best Life. We put the needs of pets and pet parents at the center of everything we do.

  • Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond. Our Passion for pets brings us together! We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through distinct experiences, products, and services.

  • Let's Go! Own & Commit. We are stronger as One Petco team. We bring our unique superpowers and champion authenticity in everyone to drive success.

About Petco:
We're proud to be "where the pets go" to find everything they need to live their best lives for more than 60 years - from their favorite meals and toys, to trusted supplies and expert support from people who get it, because we live it. We believe in the universal truths of pet parenthood - the boundless boops, missing slippers, late night zoomies and everything in between. And we're here for it. Every tail wag, every vet visit, every step of the way. We are 29,000+ strong and together we nurture the pet-human bond in more than 1,500 Petco stores across the U.S., Mexico and Puerto Rico, 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, hundreds of preventive care clinics and eight distribution centers. In 1999, we founded Petco Love. Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes for approximately 7 million animals through in-store adoption events.
As a Senior Sales Associate, you play a key role in delivering exceptional experiences for pets and pet parents while supporting the success of the Pet Care Center.
In this role, you go beyond day-to-day selling by serving as a mentor, role model, and trusted partner on the sales floor. You support store operations, assist leadership as needed, and help develop newer associates, all while delivering knowledgeable, compassionate service rooted in a passion for pets.
What You'll Do
Pet First
  • Promote the health, safety, and proper care of all animals in accordance with Petco policies and standards.
  • Share accurate pet care, nutrition, and product knowledge to help customers make informed decisions.
  • Support a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for pets, pet parents, and partners.

Foster the Fun
  • Greet customers and deliver friendly, solution-focused service that builds trust and loyalty.
  • Lead by example by demonstrating strong selling behaviors and exceptional customer service.
  • Mentor and support new and junior associates, reinforcing best practices and store standards.
  • Foster a collaborative, inclusive team environment where partners support one another.

Let's Go!
  • Assist customers in selecting products and services that best meet their pets' needs.
  • Process sales, returns, and exchanges accurately and efficiently.
  • Support merchandising and inventory activities, including restocking, recovery, and presentation.
  • Assist with opening and closing procedures as assigned.
  • Support store leadership with operational tasks and special projects.
  • Help resolve customer concerns and escalate issues appropriately when needed.

Key Responsibilities
Customer Experience & Sales
  • Deliver consistent, knowledgeable, and compassionate service.
  • Educate customers on promotions, services, and loyalty programs.
  • Support store sales goals through effective selling and service behaviors.

Operations & Merchandising
  • Maintain store cleanliness, organization, and visual standards.
  • Monitor inventory levels and assist with replenishment.
  • Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and safety standards.

Leadership Support
  • Mentor and train new associates on policies, procedures, and service expectations.
  • Act as a floor leader when needed, supporting workflow and customer experience.
  • Assist management with escalated customer concerns and operational needs.

What Success Looks Like
  • Customers feel welcomed, supported, and confident in their purchases.
  • New associates are well-trained and supported.
  • The sales floor is clean, organized, and well-stocked.
  • Store goals are supported through strong service and teamwork.

What You Bring
Experience & Skills
  • 1+ years of retail experience, preferably in a specialty retail environment.
  • Passion for animals and knowledge of pet care preferred.
  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.
  • Proven ability to multitask and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and professionalism in handling customer concerns.
  • Basic math skills and experience handling cash and transactions.

Essential Functions & Work Environment
This role is performed in a Pet Care Center retail environment and requires active engagement on the sales floor.
  • The role requires frequent standing and walking, as well as bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting.
  • Ability to safely lift and move merchandise, supplies, or animals weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Regular engagement with customers on the sales floor, including providing customer assistance and performing cashiering and point-of-sale transactions.
  • Must be able to work in proximity to animals, including exposure to animal dander, odors, noises, and cleaning chemicals.
  • Flexible availability to support Pet Care Center operating hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.
Why You'll Love It Here
  • Purpose-driven work that makes a difference for pets and people.
  • Opportunities to build leadership skills and grow your career.
  • A collaborative, inclusive team culture.
  • The chance to make an impact every shift.

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.
The pay ranges outlined below are presented in accordance with state-specific regulations. These ranges may differ in other areas and could be subject to variation based on regulatory minimum wage requirements. Actual pay rates will depend on factors such as position, location, level of experience, and applicable state or local minimum wage laws. If the regulatory minimum wage exceeds the minimum indicated in the pay range below, the regulatory minimum wage will be the minimum rate applied.
$13.00 - $22.00
Starting Rate:
$16.00
Hourly or Salary Range will be reflected above. For a more detailed overview of Petco Total Rewards, including health and financial benefits, 401K, incentives, and PTO -see https://careers.petco.com/us/en/key-benefits
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