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Animal Behavior Research Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

CareVet Health

Veterinarian

Burlington, IA · On-site

Knowledge of animal behavior * Ability to use medical technologies during diagnosis, research and surgery of animals How to Apply To learn more about positions available, please contact Kelly Weber ...

CareVet Health

Veterinarian

Burlington, IA · On-site

Knowledge of animal behavior * Ability to use medical technologies during diagnosis, research and surgery of animals How to Apply To learn more about positions available, please contact Kelly Weber ...

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All JobsAnimal Behavior Research JobsAnimal Behavior Research Jobs in Iowa

Animal Behavior Research information

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$8

$22

$46

How much do animal behavior research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behavior research in Iowa is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.44 and $26.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior Research vs Animal Care Specialist?

AspectAnimal Behavior ResearchAnimal Care Specialist
Required CredentialsDegree in animal behavior, biology, or related field; research experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, field studiesZoos, shelters, pet care facilities
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research institutions, NGOsAnimal shelters, zoos, pet stores
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, career paths in animal behaviorAnimal care duties, hands-on animal handling

Animal Behavior Research involves studying animal actions through scientific methods, often requiring specialized education and research experience. In contrast, Animal Care Specialists focus on caring for animals in various settings, emphasizing hands-on animal handling and daily care. Both roles are vital in the animal industry but differ in their focus, credentials, and work environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in animal behavior research, and how can they be managed?

Animal behavior researchers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable animal responses, difficulty in controlling environmental variables, and the need for long observation periods. Managing these challenges involves designing flexible research protocols, using advanced technology for monitoring, and collaborating closely with other researchers, veterinarians, and caretakers. Developing strong observational skills and patience is essential, as is keeping up with ethical standards and best practices in animal welfare.

What is animal behavior research?

Animal behavior research is the scientific study of how animals interact with each other and their environments. Researchers observe, record, and analyze behaviors such as feeding, mating, communication, and social dynamics in a variety of species. The goal is to understand the underlying biological, ecological, and evolutionary factors that shape animal actions. This field can involve both laboratory and fieldwork, and findings often contribute to wildlife conservation, animal welfare, and our overall understanding of animal intelligence.

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

To thrive as an Animal Behavior Researcher, you need a solid background in biology, psychology, or animal science, often supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with statistical software, behavioral observation tools, and sometimes animal handling certifications are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help researchers design studies, interpret data, and share findings. These skills ensure accurate research outcomes, ethical animal care, and meaningful contributions to scientific knowledge.

How to get a job in animal behavior research?

The qualifications you need to start working in animal behavior research include a degree, research skills, and the ability to communicate your findings concisely. The minimum educational requirement for an animal behaviorist is a bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, animal science, or a related field. If you perform research in an academic setting, you typically need a master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant field. Veterinary technicians or lab technicians have a two or four-year degree in veterinary technology, animal science, or a related field. Some employers prefer to hire licensed veterinarians for research projects.

More about Animal Behavior Research jobs

What are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior Research jobs in Iowa?

For Animal Behavior Research jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior Research jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior Research jobs in Iowa are:

Animal Behavior Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,939 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Veterinarian

CareVet Health

Burlington, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
Allgood Animal Hospital, a CareVet partner, has an opportunity for a veterinarian to join our fast paced two doctor practice in Burlington, IA. This small animal practice is looking for a dynamic full time Veterinarian to be part of a collaborative and tenured team! This position offers six figure salary plus production, a generous bonus package, paid family leave and more!
About the Position
This is the perfect opportunity for an experienced or new graduate veterinarian looking to grow their career, and be part of a tight knit team who enjoy working in a collaborative atmosphere. Ideally, this candidate will have surgical skills and a desire to make a difference in a community whose mission it is to consistently provide authentic care by compassionately supporting and serving as a unified team in harmony with our clients.
About the Hospital
We have been proudly serving the community since 1957! We are a full service domestic animal hospital conveniently located in Burlington. Allgood Animal Hospital provides sensitive quality medical care for companion animals in accordance with each client's emotional and financial needs. Our practice is a friendly workplace encouraging personal and professional growth with understanding and respect for the individual differences of coworkers, clients, and the animals placed in our care. We are proud to be a favorite among Southeast Iowa veterinarians.
About the Community
Burlington, Iowa offers affordable living with scenic views of the Mississippi River, historic charm, and plenty of outdoor recreation. Its vibrant downtown, family-friendly neighborhoods, and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to live, work, and unwind. Whether you're exploring Snake Alley or enjoying riverfront parks, Burlington blends small-town warmth with natural beauty.
We Offer You:
  • Six figure base plus production
  • No negative accrual
  • Generous signing bonus package
  • Schedule flexibility
  • Paid time off (both base and production)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision
  • 401(k) with company match
  • 100% paid life and disability insurance
  • Paid time and allowance for professional development
  • And more! Check out our Ultimate CarePackage!

Responsibilities
  • Examine animals to assess their health and diagnose problems
  • Treat and dress wounds
  • Perform surgery on animals
  • Test for and vaccinate against diseases
  • Operate medical equipment, such as x-ray machines
  • Advise animal owners about general care, medical conditions, and treatments
  • Prescribe medication
  • Work closely in collaboration with team members to provide high quality care

Qualifications
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent degree required
  • Licensure in the state/s candidate will be working
  • Ability to show compassion to both pets and their owners
  • Outstanding dexterity in handling animals while performing precise tasks
  • Ability to react quickly and make decisions under pressure about the wellbeing of an animal
  • Strong fondness and understanding of animals
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills
  • Knowledge of animal behavior
  • Ability to use medical technologies during diagnosis, research and surgery of animals

How to Apply
To learn more about positions available, please contact Kelly Weber at kweber@carevethealth.com. Apply directly by clicking the button below.
About the Network
CareVet is a network of veterinary hospitals that focuses on managing best-in-class hospitals with a mission to provide the very best care for our pets and our Team Members. Our approach to veterinary medicine focuses on practice legacy, team, Veterinarians, patients and community.
Watch this video to learn more!

Apply