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Animal Behavior Scientist Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Elanco

QA Production Support

Fort Dodge, IA · On-site

As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and ... science-related field (Biology, Chemistry, etc.). * Understanding of aseptic behavior, gowning ...

Perdue Farms

Continuous Improvement Manager 2

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$93K - $125K/yr

... driving behavioral change across site through CI tools, methodology and coaching. * Manage Site ... Animal Science, and/or Supply Chain preferred by all majors will be considered. Experience ...

Perdue Farms

Continuous Improvement Manager 2

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

... driving behavioral change across site through CI tools, methodology and coaching. * Manage Site ... Animal Science, and/or Supply Chain preferred by all majors will be considered. Experience ...

All JobsAnimal Behavior Scientist JobsAnimal Behavior Scientist Jobs in Iowa

Animal Behavior Scientist information

See Iowa salary details

$63.9K

$163.9K

How much do animal behavior scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal behavior scientist in Iowa is $160,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $162,500.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior Scientist vs Animal Trainer?

AspectAnimal Behavior ScientistAnimal Trainer
Required CredentialsDegree in biology, psychology, or animal science; research experienceExperience with training techniques; certifications like CPDT or equivalent
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, conservation organizationsPet training facilities, zoos, private homes
Employer & IndustryAcademic, research, conservation sectorsPet industry, zoos, animal shelters
Work FocusStudying animal behavior, conducting experiments, publishing researchTraining animals for obedience, behavior modification, performance

Animal Behavior Scientists focus on understanding and researching animal behavior through scientific methods, often working in labs or academic settings. In contrast, Animal Trainers apply practical training techniques to modify or teach specific behaviors, typically working directly with animals in various environments. Both roles require knowledge of animal behavior, but their goals and work settings differ significantly.

How much does an animal behavior scientist make?

Animal behavior scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as research or academia, can offer higher compensation, often exceeding $100,000 annually.

What do animal behavior scientists do?

Animal behavior scientists study how animals interact with their environment, other animals, and humans. They observe, record, and analyze animal behaviors, often using tools like video recordings and statistical software, to understand patterns and causes of behavior. Their work can involve field research, laboratory experiments, and data interpretation to inform conservation, welfare, and scientific knowledge.

What kind of job can you get with an animal behavior scientist degree?

An animal behavior scientist degree can lead to careers such as wildlife biologist, zoo or aquarium researcher, conservation specialist, or animal trainer. These roles often involve conducting research, analyzing animal behavior, and applying scientific methods, sometimes requiring fieldwork, laboratory work, or certifications in animal handling. Job opportunities are available in research institutions, conservation organizations, zoos, and government agencies.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Animal Behavior Scientist jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Animal Behavior Scientist job openings:

Animal Behavior Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Scientist job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,991 per year, or $77.4 per hour.

Research Scientist - Analytical Development

Elanco Animal Health Incorporated

Fort Dodge, IA • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Elanco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 86 rated pharmaceutical

Job description

At Elanco (NYSE: ELAN) - it all starts with animals!
As a global leader in animal health, we are dedicated to innovation and delivering products and services to prevent and treat disease in farm animals and pets. At Elanco, we are driven by our vision of Food and Companionship Enriching Life and our purpose - all to Go Beyond for Animals, Customers, Society and Our People.
At Elanco, we pride ourselves on fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that diversity is the driving force behind innovation, creativity, and overall business success. Here, you'll be part of a company that values and champions new ways of thinking, work with dynamic individuals, and acquire new skills and experiences that will propel your career to new heights.
Making animals' lives better makes life better - join our team today!
Your Role:
Research Scientist
The Research Scientist (R1 level) in Vaccine Technical Development plays a critical role in effectively and efficiently leading and advancing research and development projects. This position leverages deep technical expertise to ensure projects progress on schedule and within budget, while maintaining high standards of quality, innovation, and collaboration.
This role operates within the Process Development/Assay Development (PD/AD) functional group and operates cross-functionally across the Elanco network. The Research Scientist leads multiple large-scale projects, contributes to strategic planning, and drives continuous improvement in technical methodologies. This role also supports the full innovation cycle, contributing to the successful development, validation, and licensure of vaccine products.
Your Responsibilities:
  • Lead projects by developing technical plans, coordinating cross-functional alignment, and ensuring milestone achievement. Drive innovation by generating new ideas, accelerating timelines, and improving technical approaches.

  • Design and implement experiments, methods, protocols, and SOPs to support process and assay development improvements. Perform hands-on laboratory work, including development, optimization, and troubleshooting of new methods and techniques.

  • Represent Technical Development on project teams, defining goals, making decisions, and securing necessary resources. Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to meet project and customer requirements.

  • Analyze and interpret complex data, providing clear, actionable insights to project teams and leadership. Independently troubleshoot and resolve complex technical challenges within area of expertise.

  • Maintain accountability for project deliverables and team commitments, demonstrating Elanco's values and expected behaviors. Identify and leverage internal resources to execute projects effectively with minimal reliance on management oversight.

What You Need to Succeed (minimum qualifications):
  • Education & Experience: Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Virology, Immunology, Bacteriology, Molecular Biology) with at least 1 year of industry or post-doctoral experience; OR a Master of Science (M.S.) degree with 5+ years of experience in vaccine analytical development.

  • Technical & Leadership Skills: Proven hands-on expertise in analytical method development (e.g., potency assays, ELISA, viral titration) combined with demonstrated experience leading technical projects in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment.

  • Communication & Influence: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a demonstrated ability to influence technical and business outcomes.

What will give you a competitive edge (preferred qualifications):
  • Direct experience with the USDA regulatory framework for animal biologics.

  • A strong background in developing and validating potency assays for licensed vaccines.

  • Proven success in mentoring and training junior scientific staff.

  • Experience managing the technical transfer of methods to QC or manufacturing teams.

  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and adapt to shifting priorities.

Additional Information:
  • Travel: 0-15%

  • Location: Fort Dodge, Iowa - On-Site Work Environment

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown underrecognized groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Elanco we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive work environment. If you think you might be a good fit for a role but don't necessarily meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. You may be the right candidate for this role or other roles!
Elanco Benefits and Perks:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package focusing on financial, physical, and mental well-being while encouraging our employees to pursue our purpose! Some highlights include:
  • Multiple relocation packages

  • Two weeklong shutdowns (mid-summer and year-end) in the US (in addition to PTO)

  • 8-week parental leave

  • 9 Employee Resource Groups

  • Annual bonus offering

  • Flexible work arrangements

  • Up to 6% 401K matching

#LI-JC1
Elanco is an EEO/Affirmative Action Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status
Elanco may use automated tools, including AI, to support parts of our recruitment process, such as reviewing applications against job-related criteria and/or transferrable skills. These tools help ensure a consistent, structured evaluation, but they do not make hiring decisions. All decisions involve a human reviewer. For more information on how we handle personal data, please see our Elanco Workforce Privacy Notice.

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