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Animal Behavior Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Herschend

Animal Wellbeing - Part Time

Waimanalo, HI · On-site

$15.75 - $21.25/hr

Live or pre-recorded behavioral observations of assigned animal or animal group * Participation in research design and coordination * Data analysis of observations * Weekly reporting of data to staff

Maxonic, Inc.

Research Model Husbandry

Hollister, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Research Model Husbandry Job Type: Contract Job Location: Hollister, CA Work Schedule: On-site Pay ... Monitor animal health by observing animal behavior physical appearance and environment and identify ...

Syracuse University

Research Analyst

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$62K/yr

Diverse research topics in the lab span the fields of behavioral ecology, bioacoustics, and ... M.S. in animal behavior, marine science, acoustics or related field or B.S. with two or more years ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$19 - $26/hr

Animal behavior and welfare assessment * Research data collection and analysis * Laboratory and field research techniques This position is an excellent opportunity for students interested in graduate ...

Altasciences

Animal Research Technician

Olyphant, PA

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

About the Role Research Associate I will perform technical procedures, restrain animals, operate ... Monitor and report changes in animal behavior or health, and problems with animal rooms (e.g ...

Altasciences

Animal Research Technician

Olyphant, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

About the Role Research Associate I will perform technical procedures, restrain animals, operate ... Monitor and report changes in animal behavior or health, and problems with animal rooms (e.g ...

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Animal Behavior Research information

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.

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Animal Behavior Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Research job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Animal Keeper 1 (African Watering Hole)

Animal Keeper 1 (African Watering Hole)

Maryland Zoo

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$19.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
General Summary: The Animal Keeper 1 (African Watering Hole) will provide care and maintenance of the animals and their associated exhibits and holding areas. The Animal Keeper is responsible for working collaboratively with other keepers and coworkers to achieve departmental and Zoo-wide initiatives. The Animal Keeper will report to their assigned Area Manager and the General Curator. Additionally, the Animal Keeper will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustianability, conservation, education, and DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) goals.
Essential Functions:
Primary Function:
  • Provides basic daily husbandry, food and water for animals in assigned area in accordance with department and area standards
  • Observes behavior and physical condition of animals, and reports concerns to area supervisor
  • Transfers animals between enclosures in accordance with department and area standards, and follows established safety guidelines
  • Provides approved enrichment to animals in compliance with behavior team requirements
  • Participates in approved training programs in compliance with behavior team requirements
  • Maintains daily electronic records to track animal behavior and well-being over time
  • Attends annual welfare assessments and submits regular welfare evaluations
  • Participates in data collection for approved behavior and research projects
  • Participates in animal medical procedures as directed by the area supervisor
  • Participates in animal escape drills and incidents as directed by the recapture coordinator
  • Conducts daily inspections of animal facilities, animal equipment and area buildings for structural defects and potential safety issues, and reports concerns to area supervisor
  • Performs minor repairs and maintenance of animal facilities, animal equipment and area buildings as needed
  • Maintains cleanliness of animal facilities, area buildings, public spaces and back of house areas
  • Implements pest control measures as needed, and in accordance with the Zoo's pest control program
  • Complies with all AZA standards and USDA regulations
  • Adheres to all policies and procedures of the department and the Zoo
  • May train new staff on daily area routines with oversight from higher level keepers or manager.

Communication (Internal and External):
  • Completes daily records for tracking animal health, animal behavior, enrichment and training
  • Reviews area records and updates in order to stay informed of new developments and changes in assigned area
  • Checks Zoo email regularly for updates from department and Zoo management
  • Provides area supervisor with timely updates on animal concerns
  • Actively participates in team meetings, discussions and debriefings
  • Adheres to the Zoo's communication policy regarding social media posts and confidentiality
  • Enhances the guest experience by actively engaging with visitors
  • Supports the Zoo's mission by sharing the organization's conservation messages with visitors and the general public

Management of Resources (financial, human resources, facilities):
  • Proper storage and use of animal food items and animal medications
  • Proper use and care of Zoo radios and cell phones, and timely reporting of issues
  • Safe use of Zoo vehicles and timely reporting of issues, including any accidents
  • Maintenance and safe use of tools and minor equipment, including kitchen knives

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, or a related field of study strongly preferred.

Experience/Training:
  • At least one year of animal care experience with applicable species preferred
  • Zoo experience preferred (paid or unpaid)
  • Understanding of current trends in animal training and behavior management
  • Able to collect and collate data for studying animal behavior
  • Familiarity with electronic communication and record-keeping
  • Must possess a valid driver's license

Traits Desirable:
  • Ability to work with a wide variety of individuals from ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds;
  • Ability to operate both independently and as part of a team in a productive, respectful, and efficient manner with proper time management skills;
  • Extremely well organized, self-directed, collaborative, and detail oriented; and,
  • Possess a positive attitude and a general philosophy/outlook in line with the Zoo's mission.

Equipment:
  • Must be able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including computer, telephone, radio, and vehicles, hand tools, animal restraint and capture devices, incubators, gardening/carpentry tools and machinery, scales, etc.

Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to lift 75 pounds with assistance and 50 pounds unassisted as needed;
  • Must be able to climb a ladder carrying up to 15 pounds;
  • Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 25 pounds frequently and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • Physical demands are in excess of those for sedentary work; Must be able to stand and remain active for an eight-hour shift; must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, push, pull, climb, balance;
  • Must be able to travel large areas of the Zoo on foot as needed;
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule to include weekends, holidays, and special events;
  • Must be able to work in an outdoor weather environment in all seasons and weather, including heat/humidity, cold temperatures, and/or wet conditions;
  • Exposure to zoonotic diseases and risk of animal attack;
  • Exposure to potential environmental hazards such as poison oak/ivy, uneven terrain, insect bites/stings, and Hepatitis B depending on the position; and,
  • Initial tuberculosis (TB) test and physical required.

Benefits:
  • We offer an excellent benefits package including 24 days of Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick and Safe Leave, and 2 paid holidays.
  • Eligible for medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • 401(k) with employer match.

Disclaimer:
The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all personnel so classified. Therefore, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change.
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