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Animal Behavior Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Jungle Island

ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Miami, FL · On-site

Train and maintain animal behaviors as directed by the Supervisor and Animal Care Curator * Safely transport animals as necessary * Handle animals in the park near guests, on stage, on camera as well ...

Jungle Island

ANIMAL KEEPER 1

Miami, FL · On-site

Train and maintain animal behaviors as directed by the Supervisor and Animal Care Curator * Safely transport animals as necessary * Handle animals in the park near guests, on stage, on camera as well ...

City of Vero Beach

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

Vero Beach, FL · On-site

$21.86 - $22.73/hr

Knowledge of animal behavior and control techniques, including euthanasia. Knowledge of effective customer service/public relations practices and procedures. Knowledge of occupational hazards and ...

Spca Florida

Animal Care - Feline Team

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Basic knowledge of proper methods of animal restraint and animal behavior. * The ability to work well and communicate effectively with the public, fellow employees, and volunteers. * The Ability to ...

Naples Zoo Inc

Animal Care Professional - Carnivore

Naples, FL · On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Knowledge of animal husbandry related to carnivores as well as good observational skills of animal behavior is beneficial. An Associates degree in a Zoological science or a related Bachelors degree ...

SPCA Florida

Animal Care - Feline Team

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$15 - $15.50/hr

Basic knowledge of proper methods of animal restraint and animal behavior. * The ability to work well and communicate effectively with the public, fellow employees, and volunteers. * The Ability to ...

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All JobsAnimal Behavior JobsAnimal Behavior Jobs in Florida

Animal Behavior information

See Florida salary details

$14.7K

$37.2K

$58.5K

How much do animal behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal behavior in Florida is $37,231.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,092.00 and $46,202.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal behaviorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Behaviorist, you need a strong background in animal science, psychology, or biology, often supported by a relevant degree and specialized training. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, data analysis software, and sometimes certification from organizations like the Animal Behavior Society is typical. Excellent observation, problem-solving, and communication skills help professionals interact effectively with both animals and their owners. These qualifications are crucial for accurately diagnosing behavioral issues and implementing effective intervention strategies that improve animal welfare.

What jobs study animal behavior?

Jobs that study animal behavior include ethologists, wildlife biologists, zoologists, and animal behaviorists. These roles often require a background in biology or psychology, fieldwork experience, and sometimes advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D. in related fields. They work in research, conservation, zoos, or academic settings to observe, analyze, and interpret animal actions and interactions.

What is animal behavior?

Animal behavior refers to the actions and reactions of animals in response to external or internal stimuli. It encompasses everything animals do, including movement, communication, feeding, mating, and social interactions. Scientists study animal behavior to understand how animals adapt to their environment, interact with each other, and survive. This field can involve both observing animals in their natural habitats and conducting experiments in controlled settings.

What are some common challenges faced by animal behaviorists in their daily work?

Animal behaviorists often encounter challenges such as interpreting subtle behavioral cues, working with animals that may be stressed or fearful, and effectively communicating findings to pet owners or facility staff. They may also face unpredictable situations, especially when working with animals with a history of aggression or trauma. Building trust with both animals and humans, as well as adapting behavior modification plans to suit individual needs, are key aspects of the role that require patience and flexibility.

What are animal behavior jobs?

Animal behavior jobs focus on either domestic animals or wildlife behavior. If you work with domestic animals, you may have duties like training dogs or horses as companion animals or service animals. Your responsibilities can vary significantly, as running obedience classes is very different than training a seeing-eye dog. As an animal behaviorist, your duties and responsibilities are to study how animals behave in their natural habitat, observing how they eat, their hunting behavior, their mating patterns, and how they raise their offspring. In addition to your research, you may teach in a college or university or provide instruction to primary school students. Other animal behaviorist work in zoos or wildlife preserves.

What jobs can you do with animal behavior?

Animal behavior specialists work in fields such as wildlife conservation, zoo management, research, and animal training. They analyze animal actions to improve welfare, develop training programs, or contribute to scientific understanding. Relevant skills include observation, data collection, and often a background in biology or psychology.

What is the difference between Animal Behavior vs Animal Care Specialist?

AspectAnimal BehaviorAnimal Care Specialist
Required CredentialsDegree in animal science, psychology, or related field; certifications in animal behaviorHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training or certifications in animal care
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, animal behavior consulting firmsZoos, shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, academia, animal behavior consultingAnimal shelters, pet care facilities, zoos
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Behavior specialists focus on studying, analyzing, and understanding animal actions, often working in research or consulting roles. Animal Care Specialists provide hands-on care, feeding, and maintaining animals in shelters, zoos, or clinics. While both roles involve working with animals, Animal Behavior emphasizes understanding behavior patterns, whereas Animal Care focuses on daily animal well-being and management.

How do I become an animal behaviorist?

To become an animal behaviorist, typically a bachelor's degree in biology, psychology, or a related field is required, followed by a master's or doctoral degree specializing in animal behavior or ethology. Gaining experience through internships, research, or working with animals is important, and certification from professional organizations can enhance credibility and job prospects.
More about Animal Behavior jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior jobs in Florida? For Animal Behavior jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Animal Behavior jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Animal Behavior job openings:
Animal Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, and 32% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,231 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Animal Educator & Attendant

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Animal Educator – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Educator is responsible for developing and delivering engaging educational programs and presentations about animals, conservation, and environmental topics. This role helps foster public awareness, appreciation, and responsible stewardship of wildlife and natural resources.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop and present educational programs for schools, camps, tours, and public events.
  • Handle and present live animals safely in front of audiences of various ages.
  • Educate guests on animal biology, behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts.
  • Assist in creating interpretive signage, displays, and educational materials.
  • Support animal care staff with daily husbandry duties as needed.
  • Ensure all educational content aligns with the organization’s mission and animal welfare standards.
  • Maintain accurate program attendance and animal use records.
  • Participate in training and professional development related to animal handling and interpretation.
  • Engage with guests to answer questions and encourage conservation action.
  • Comply with all safety and regulatory standards regarding animal handling and public interaction.
Skills and Qualifications:
  • Strong public speaking and communication skills.
  • Experience with animal handling and interpretation.
  • Knowledge of zoology, wildlife conservation, or environmental education.
  • Ability to adapt programs for different audiences and age groups.

Animal Attendant – Job Description
Overview:
An Animal Attendant is responsible for the daily care, feeding, and welfare of animals in a zoo, sanctuary, rehabilitation, or educational facility. They ensure animals’ needs are met while maintaining clean, safe, and enriching environments.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Feed, water, and monitor animals according to established diets and schedules.
  • Clean and sanitize enclosures, habitats, and work areas.
  • Observe animal behavior and health; report abnormalities or concerns to supervisors or veterinarians.
  • Assist in administering medications and following treatment plans under supervision.
  • Provide environmental enrichment to promote physical and mental well-being.
  • Maintain accurate records of animal diets, behavior, and health observations.
  • Assist with animal training and handling for educational or husbandry purposes.
  • Support guest engagement by answering questions and promoting responsible wildlife care.
  • Follow all safety procedures and biosecurity protocols.
  • Operate and maintain cleaning, feeding, and safety equipment.
Skills and Qualifications:
  • Experience working with animals in a professional or volunteer capacity.
  • Basic understanding of animal behavior and welfare principles.
  • Attention to detail and ability to follow specific care instructions.
  • Physical ability to lift, bend, and perform manual labor in various weather conditions.
  • Compassion, patience, and strong work ethic.

 

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