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Animal Behavior Research Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Assistant - Preclinical Research Adecco Healthcare & Life Sciences is hiring for a ... Monitor animals for changes in health or behavior and immediately communicate concerns to ...

Research Veterinary Technician The Research Veterinary Technician supports the health and ... Basic small and large animal handling and behavior. Work Environment The position follows a ...

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Animal Behavior Research information

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$8

$24

$49

How much do animal behavior research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behavior research in Minnesota is $24.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.41 and $27.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior Research jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Animal Behavior Research jobs in Minnesota are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Animal Behavior Research jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Animal Behavior Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,122 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Animal Care Technician

Element Research Group Inc

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$16.50 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Description:

Animal Care Technician– Element Research Group

Element Research Group (ERG) is a contract research organization (CRO) based in the Twin Cities medical device hub, specializing in pre-clinical studies. The Animal Care Technician is responsible for supporting the daily care, welfare, and well-being of laboratory animals in a research setting. This role plays a key part in ensuring high standards of husbandry and facility cleanliness while contributing to the successful execution of in-life studies. The technician works closely with veterinary and research teams to maintain compliance with study protocols and clinical observation requirements, helping ensure that all activities are carried out in accordance with institutional SOPs and regulatory guidelines. This role is required onsite in Brooklyn Park, MN 5 days per week with a team rotation schedule covering weekends and holidays. 


Education

· Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in an animal related field is desirable in order to allow for advancement opportunities.

· Laboratory Animal Technician certification (ALAT, LAT, or LATG) preferred.


Experience and Skill / Knowledge

· 1-2+ years of experience in an animal husbandry/animal care setting (research, veterinary clinic, agriculture, zoo) preferred.

· Knowledge of research animal behavior, and general animal care required

· Excellent communication skills and a history of working in a multidisciplinary team.

· Basic understanding of research principles of laboratory animal science. 

· Experience in GLP environment preferred.

· Strong attention to detail and good documentation practices are required. 

· Basic computer skills, with experience using Microsoft Outlook preferred


Element Research Group offers a full suite of Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, compeitive PTO, 401k matching as well as a warm culture and team to be a part of.


Salary range: Competitive within MN Twin Cities market 

Requirements:

• Accurately document clinical observations and environmental data.

• Assist in basic in-life procedures by restraining or handling animals as needed.

• Administer routine in-life treatments or medications under supervision.

• Participate in inter-room animal transfers and help coordinate housing logistics.

• May require occasional weekend, holiday, or after-hours work depending on facility needs.

Physical Requirements of the Job

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently (e.g., bags of feed, equipment, animals)

• Frequently standing, walking, bending and kneeling throughout the day.

• Ability to push, pull, or maneuver carts with supplies or equipment.

• Capacity to handle and restrain animals of various species and sizes safely.

• Good manual dexterity for tasks such as cage maintenance, administering treatments, or using 

tools.

• Visual and auditory acuity to observe animals for signs of illness or distress.

• Comfortable working in hot, humid, or cold environments depending on room and housing 

conditions.

• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gowns, gloves, face shields, 

or respirators.