ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Animal Behavior Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Assistant

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Minimum 1 year of experience as a Veterinary Assistant Strong understanding of restraint, animal behavior, and proper handling techniques A positive attitude and strong teamwork skills Ability to ...

Pet Evolution

Mobile Pet Technician/Groomer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... animal behavior - Excellent customer service - Delivering online purchases - Help with walk-in services in store during downtime if no appointments are scheduled - Go to dog parks and other venues to ...

Virginia Tech

Animal Care Technician (ACE)

Blacksburg, VA

$13.75 - $18.75/hr

Animal Care Technician (ACE) Apply now Back to search results Job no: 537470 Work type: Staff ... abnormal behavior and clinical signs in animals, generate a basic rule out list for common ...

Pet Evolution

Mobile Pet Technician/Groomer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... animal behavior - Excellent customer service - Delivering online purchases - Help with walk-in services in store during downtime if no appointments are scheduled - Go to dog parks and other venues to ...

Maymont Foundation

Lead Aquarist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20/hr

Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry to include disease and parasite control, animal nutrition, animal breeding, animal behavior and animal training. Understanding of biology, ecology, physics, and ...

Maymont Foundation

Lead Aquarist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry to include disease and parasite control, animal nutrition, animal breeding, animal behavior and animal training. * Understanding of biology, ecology, physics ...

Maymont Foundation

Aquarist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17/hr

Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry to include disease and parasite control, animal nutrition, animal breeding, animal behavior and animal training. * Additional skills and abilities preferred ...

Maymont Foundation

Lead Aquarist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$20/hr

Knowledge of aquatic animal husbandry to include disease and parasite control, animal nutrition, animal breeding, animal behavior and animal training. * Understanding of biology, ecology, physics ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAnimal Behavior JobsAnimal Behavior Jobs in Virginia

Animal Behavior information

See Virginia salary details

$18K

$45.5K

$71.5K

How much do animal behavior jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal behavior in Virginia is $45,454.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,634.00 and $56,406.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

Do animal behaviorists make good money?

Animal behaviorists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, education, and work setting. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as certification or research experience, can lead to higher earnings, especially in private practice or consulting positions.

What jobs can you do with animal behavior?

Animal behavior specialists can work as zookeepers, wildlife rehabilitators, animal trainers, research scientists, or conservation biologists. These roles often require knowledge of ethology, fieldwork skills, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications in animal science or biology.

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 knowledge of research methods and animal handling. They can be found in research institutions, zoos, conservation organizations, and academic settings.

What qualifications do I need to be an animal behaviorist?

Animal behaviorists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in biology, psychology, zoology, or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's or doctoral degree. Relevant skills include understanding animal cognition and behavior, research experience, and often certification or training in animal handling or specific behavioral assessment methods.
More about Animal Behavior jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Animal Behavior jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Animal Behavior job openings:

Animal Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,454 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Part time Dog Walker/Pet Sitter

Metropawlitan Pet Sitters

Arlington, VA • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description


Please No middle school, high school or students who go to school out of state.
This job has a minimum of 6 month commitment.
We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Dog Walker to join our team. This role is perfect for individuals who love animals and enjoy spending time outdoors. As a Dog Walker, you will be responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of dogs while providing them with exercise and companionship during their walks. Your primary focus will be to create a positive experience for both the dogs and their owners.
*Responsibilities*
- Walk dogs of various sizes and breeds, ensuring they receive adequate exercise.
- Maintain control of dogs at all times, utilizing appropriate animal restraint techniques.
- Monitor the behavior and health of dogs during walks, reporting any concerns to pet owners.
- Provide basic grooming services as needed, including brushing and cleaning paws.
- Ensure that all dogs are safely secured before and after walks.
- Communicate effectively with pet owners regarding their dog's behavior and needs.
- Maintain a clean and organized environment for the dogs in your care.
- Follow all safety protocols to ensure the well-being of both the animals and yourself.
*Skills*
- Strong knowledge of dog handling techniques, including animal restraint and behavior management.
- Experience in pet care, including dog grooming, sitting, or veterinary technician roles is advantageous.
- Familiarity with equine care is a plus for those who may handle multiple types of animals.
- Excellent customer service skills to effectively communicate with pet owners.
- Ability to work independently while being responsible for the safety of pets in your care.
- Strong physical stamina to manage long walks and active dogs.
- Own a smartphone
- Enjoy the idea of a flexible schedule
- Own a reliable, insured, registered and inspected car( preferably not one shared with others
- Can work independently and without supervision
-Be comfortable with groups of dogs and be skilled in animal behavior
- Be able to provide references and pass a criminal background check
- Possess honesty, reliability, strong communication skills, common sense and good judgment
-Be adaptable - things happen. We need people who won't unravel when things aren't seamless
- Be in good physical health - You will be walking dogs and sometimes in the rain, sleet & snow!
If you have a passion for animals and are looking for a fulfilling role that allows you to make a difference in their lives, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity as a Dog Walker.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract, Temporary, Seasonal
  • Flexible schedule
  • Referral program

Work Location: In person

Apply