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Animal Behavior Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Keeper

Layton, UT · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Whether you're preparing habitats, observing animal behavior, or sharing stories with families ... Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field. * Passion for animal care ...

Animal Keeper

Woodbridge, NJ · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Whether you're preparing habitats, observing animal behavior, or sharing stories with families ... Degree in Zoology, Marine Biology, Animal Science, or a related field. * Passion for animal care ...

Apply Early

Train and maintain animal behaviors as directed by the Supervisor and Animal Care Curator * Safely ... A college degree in any of the biological sciences or psychology is preferred. * Two years ...

... ASPCA Animal Hospital, Forensics, Criminal Practice & Investigations, Behavioral Sciences, Shelter Medicine Services, Community Engagement, Centralized Placement, Relocation Services to ensure ...

... ASPCA Animal Hospital, Forensics, Criminal Practice & Investigations, Behavioral Sciences, Shelter Medicine Services, Community Engagement, Centralized Placement, Relocation Services to ensure ...

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Animal Behavior Scientist information

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$68K

$174.5K

How much do animal behavior scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal behavior scientist in the United States is $171,401.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $173,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in animal science?

The highest paying roles in animal science often include veterinary surgeons, animal research directors, and specialized animal scientists working in biotechnology or pharmaceuticals. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized skills, with salaries reaching six figures or more depending on the industry and location.

What do animal behavior scientists do?

Animal behavior scientists study how animals behave in their natural and controlled environments, often observing, recording, and analyzing their actions to understand patterns, communication, and social structures. They may use tools like tracking devices and require knowledge of biology, ecology, and research methods to conduct experiments and contribute to conservation, welfare, or scientific knowledge.

What can I do with a BS in animal behavior?

A BS in animal behavior prepares individuals for roles such as animal behavior technician, research assistant, or wildlife educator. These positions often involve working in research settings, zoos, or conservation organizations and may require skills in observation, data collection, and understanding animal welfare. Further education or certifications can expand career opportunities in specialized areas like veterinary behavior or animal training.

How much does an animal behaviourist get paid?

Animal behaviorists typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those working in research or consulting may earn higher salaries, especially with specialized skills or certifications.

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.

More about Animal Behavior Scientist jobs
What cities are hiring for Animal Behavior Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Animal Behavior Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Animal Behavior Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Animal Behavior Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $171,401 per year, or $82.4 per hour.

MSPCA Cape Cod - Behavior Coordinator

MSPCA - Angell

Centerville, MA

$28/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

This is a full time 40 hour/week position.

MSPCA is currently seeking an experienced animal behavior training professional with excellent teamwork skills to join our Cape Adoption Center Team.

If you have experience in Animal Behavior/Training and would like to work for an organization that works to help people and animals, this may be the career move you have been looking for.

THE POSITION:

Working under the direction of the Director of Behavioral Services at the MSPCA, the Behavior Coordinator will advise adoption center staff on facilitating appropriate matches for animals with challenging behavior.

The Behavior Coordinator will be responsible for creating and implementing behavior modification plans for dogs in the adoption center, and instructing adoption center staff on the creation of appropriate adoption recommendations. This position will lead training for our animal adoption staff and volunteers in animal behavior. The Behavior Coordinator will also provide advice and direction to staff on behavior related tasks in the adoption center, including but not limited to daily dog walking, low-stress handling for vaccines, administration of medication, and low-stress euthanasia

The Behavior Coordinator will provide pre-adoption counseling and hands-on training for prospective adopters, alongside post-adoption support to families who are struggling at home.

QUALIFIED APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

The ideal candidate will be an organized, creative problem solver who has fantastic people skills.

EDUCATION

  • CCPDT-KA, KPA-CTP, IAABC or other accredited professional dog training certification preferred, or 2 years equivalent experience training dogs under the supervision of a certified dog trainer and in accordance with the MSPCA training philosophy required.
  • Fear Free Certification within 6 months or hire or promotion date.

EXPERIENCE

  • One year working or volunteering directly with animals, ideally of different species, sizes, and temperaments, under the supervision of a behavior professional.
  • One year working in animal welfare or related field.
  • One year training/behavior modification experience in accordance with the MSPCA’s philosophies.

As this position requires excellent attention to details, as well as verbal and written communication skills, we require applicants to include a cover letter with your application which showcases your writing skills.

WHO WE ARE:

The MSPCA is one of the oldest and most venerable humane organizations in the world and the largest animal welfare organization in New England- caring for and placing over 11,000 animals annually across our four adoption centers. At our Cape Adoption Center, we care for over 1,500 animals each year with a 95% live release rate. Take a virtual tour of our adoption center! The MSPCA also has the largest animal relocation program in New England - transporting thousands of cats and dogs from overpopulated animal shelters across the country to Massachusetts, where each animal receives medical care, enrichment, and behavior training prior to adoption. Our animal relocation network, combined with the MSPCA-Angell’s veterinary and adoption center resources, works to protect the largest number of animals possible.

We value our connections to communities and organizations, and serve as a resource to protect the largest number of animals possible.

OUR BENEFITS:

Our values-based, dynamic culture is one of the most unique cultures you will find in the nonprofit industry, offering high engagement roles with flexibility and growth opportunities. We provide opportunity for continuing education both in animal welfare and in behavior sciences.

We have created a work environment with a balance of independent work, collaboration with behavior team and management team, and working alongside animal care staff and volunteers to ensure a high level of consistency in animal handling and training skills, ultimately resulting in consistent interactions for the animals that allow them to be the most successful.

Our compensation package includes BCBS health insurance, dental and life insurance, a 403(b) retirement plan, tuition reimbursement, paid holidays, sick and vacation time, employee discounts for pet health care, pet food and free on-site parking!

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

We believe that a diverse workforce is integral to our organizational culture, and that employing a workforce with varied and unique perspectives that emerge from racial, gender, sexuality, religious, linguistic, neurological, physical and other differences fuels our ability to fulfill our organizational mission, surpassing our goals and visions. The MSPCA-Angell needs a diverse, well-supported workforce of staff and volunteers to best understand and serve our patients, clients, and communities. We are committed to attracting and retaining a highly talented diverse workforce for our future and appreciate your interest in pursuing a career at the MSPCA-Angell.

If you are experienced in animal behavior and would like to work for an organization where your work is an important part of a respected and caring non-profit, apply today.