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Animal Behavior Research Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Observes animal behavior, performs animal care, and reports concerns to the appropriate entities to contribute to the health and well-being of animals in support of research and instruction

Observes animal behavior, performs basic animal care, and reports concerns to the appropriate entities to contribute to the health and well-being of animals and promote research * Collects samples ...

Observes animal behavior, performs animal care, and reports concerns to the appropriate entities to contribute to the health and well-being of animals in support of research and instruction

Observe horses daily and communicate any health, behavior, or welfare concerns to the management ... Follow all established animal care, safety, biosecurity, and welfare protocols. Research Support

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Animal Behavior Research information

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$8

$22

$46

How much do animal behavior research jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behavior research in Wisconsin is $22.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.49 and $26.12 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 Wisconsin?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,105 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Lead Campus Animal Care Technician

Stevens Point, WI • On-site

$19.54 - $21.15/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Position Title:Lead Campus Animal Care TechnicianJob Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Animal Care Technician IIIJob Duties:

The Lead Campus Animal Care Technician is responsible for the safety and welfare of the live animal collections at UWSP. This includes care and feeding of animals; administering appropriate university and government policies related to animal care; training faculty researchers and student employees in best animal care practices; and general animal care facilities maintenance. The Lead Campus Animal Care Technician oversees live animal collections in the Animal Care Facility in the Trainer Natural Resources (TNR) building and the Laboratory Animal Facility in the Haeni Chemistry Biology Building (HCBB).

**Full position description is available upon request. **

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Leads the day-to day operational activities of an animal care work unit and facilitates staff training as needed
  • Maintains organization of and updates records related to work unit procedures
  • Inspects, maintains, and initiates complex repairs to equipment to ensure optimal and safe operation
  • Observes animal behavior, performs animal care, and reports concerns to the appropriate entities to contribute to the health and well-being of animals in support of research and instruction
  • Prepares food and formulas and feeds animals according to established schedules and specifications
  • Cleans and maintains organization of animal holding spaces
  • Collects samples from animals and administers medications, injections, and treatments according to established protocols and procedures to be used for diagnostic and research
  • Tracks inventory levels of animal supplies and places replenishment orders
Department:

The Department of Biology is part of the School of Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry in the College of Letters and Sciences. The department is primarily housed in the Haeni Chemistry Biology Building and the Trainer Natural Resources Building on the UWSP main campus, but also includes facilities on the Wausau and Marshfield campuses. The department includes 20 full-time faculty representing a wide range of subdisciplines. Their primary mission is teaching to and performing research with undergraduate students.

Compensation & Benefits:

The Lead Campus Animal Care Technician is a full-time, hourly, non-exempt, annual (12-month), university staff position.

Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting rate between $19.54 - $21.15 per hour commensurate with the candidate's education, related experience, and qualifications.

Eligible Universitiesof Wisconsin employees receive an excellent benefits package. To learn more about the benefits package, review theUniversities of Wisconsin Employee Benefits Quick Guide.Use theHealth & Retirement Contributions Estimatorto calculate the estimated value of your compensation and benefits.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's in biology or related field.

  • Small-animal handling experience.

  • Inventory, ordering supplies, and record keeping.

  • Basic math skills for calculating dosages, dilutions, weights, metric-English conversions.

  • Basic chemistry (pH, acids, bases, and water testing), and basic microscopy.

  • Knowledge of small animal physiology and behavior to diagnose illness, appropriate dosing of medication or treatment as well when to consult veterinary help.

  • Supervisory skills: This position is responsible for hiring, training, scheduling, disciplining, and/or firing of undergraduate student staff.

  • Able to perform minor equipment maintenance and repair and know whom to contact if larger repairs are required.

  • Ability to help with designing animal research consistent with available space, equipment, and resources.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Training in first aid.

  • Keep and maintain detailed records.

  • Basic understanding of how scientific research is conducted.

  • Know PHS, NIH, OLAW and USDA regulations and University policies for animal care and welfare.

How to Apply:

TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION: Applications received by 8/3/2026 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. Application materials will be evaluated, and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration.

Files must be complete to be considered. Submission in PDF format is preferred for all attachments. Please include the following documents:

  • Cover letter addressing qualifications and experience

  • Resume/Curriculum Vitae

(Official Transcripts will be required of finalist)

After you submit your application, you will be unable to edit it. Please be sure to include all required materials before submitting your application.

Contact Information:

Name: Dr. Paul Whitaker, Assistant Dean, School of Biology, Chemistry, and Biochemistry

Email: paul.whitaker@uwsp.edu

Phone: 715-346-3058

If you have any questions regarding the application process, need special arrangements, or if you submitted your application with missing materials, please call or email:

Human Resources

Email: human.resources@uwsp.edu

Phone: 715-346-2606

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e., a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.UW-Stevens Point does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position.

Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require you to supply a minimum of three (3) professional references (one (1) of which being a current or former supervisor). It is preferred that you supply five (5) professional references (two (2) of which being a current or former supervisors). Your references will be required to answer questions regarding misconduct, sexual violence and sexual harassment.

Special Notes:

Through the discovery and dissemination of knowledge, UW-Stevens Point stimulates intellectual growth, provides a liberal education, and prepares students for a diverse sustainable world. The university is committed to creating a safe, inclusive learning community for all faculty and staff from a variety of backgrounds. Visit https://www.uwsp.edu/join-uw-stevens-point/ for more information about UW-Stevens Point. To learn about the Stevens Point (aka Point) area fun, jobs, housing, education, quality of life, and bragging rights, visit www.stevenspointarea.com.

Individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources and Affirmative Action at 715-346-2606 or hr@uwsp.edu.

The safety and success of students, faculty, and staff at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is paramount. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires the distribution of an annual security report to all current and prospective students, faculty, and staff. You may obtain the complete report at https://www3.uwsp.edu/protsv/Pages/Clery.aspx

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).

An offer of employment will require a criminal background check and authorization to work within the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer:


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.