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Animal Behavior Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

VCA Animal Hospitals

Kennel Assistant

Springfield, MO

$15/hr

At VCA Parkcrest Animal Hospital, we believe a warm smile, remembering a client's name, celebrating ... Providing daily play-yard time and monitoring pets for changes in behavior or wellbeing * Bathing ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Kennel Assistant

Springfield, MO · On-site

$15/hr

At VCA Parkcrest Animal Hospital, we believe a warm smile, remembering a client's name, celebrating ... Providing daily play-yard time and monitoring pets for changes in behavior or wellbeing * Bathing ...

Krispy Kreme

Seasonal Team Member

Springfield, MO · On-site

$10 - $13.50/hr

Our global culture is best captured by our Leadership Mix, a dozen behaviors that define how we ... We are working on reducing food waste through donation efforts, animal feed, and composting ...

Krispy Kreme

Seasonal Team Member

Springfield, MO · On-site

$10 - $13.50/hr

Our global culture is best captured by our Leadership Mix, a dozen behaviors that define how we ... We are working on reducing food waste through donation efforts, animal feed, and composting ...

Krispy Kreme

Seasonal Team Member

Springfield, MO · On-site

$10 - $13.50/hr

Our global culture is best captured by our Leadership Mix, a dozen behaviors that define how we ... We are working on reducing food waste through donation efforts, animal feed, and composting ...

Krispy Kreme

Seasonal Team Member

Springfield, MO · On-site

$10 - $13.50/hr

Our global culture is best captured by our Leadership Mix, a dozen behaviors that define how we ... We are working on reducing food waste through donation efforts, animal feed, and composting ...

All JobsAnimal Behavior JobsAnimal Behavior Jobs in Springfield, MO

Animal Behavior information

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 Springfield, MO?

The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs in Springfield, MO are:

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

What job categories do people searching Animal Behavior jobs in Springfield, MO look for?

The top searched job categories for Animal Behavior jobs in Springfield, MO are:

What cities near Springfield, MO are hiring for Animal Behavior jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MO with the most Animal Behavior job openings:

Animal Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behavior job openings in Springfield, MO as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution.

Animal Swing Keeper

Springfield, MO • On-site

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium
See more jobs at Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquariumexternal

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Animal Swing Keeper 1, 2, or SeniorWonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium | Springfield, MOWork With Some of the Most Unique Animal Species in the CountryDo you have experience caring for mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates and want to make a difference in animal welfare and conservation?Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is seeking passionate Animal Swing Keepers (Level 1, Level 2, and Senior) to join our Life Sciences team. This position provides hands-on care for a diverse animal collection while helping create exceptional experiences for guests at one of America's premier wildlife attractions.What You'll DoProvide daily care for a diverse collection of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insectsPrepare diets and support veterinary care programsMaintain exhibits, service areas, and holding spaces to the highest standardsParticipate in animal training and enrichment programsMonitor animal health and behavior while maintaining accurate recordsAssist with guest interactions and educational experiencesCollaborate with fellow animal care professionals, interns, and volunteersWhat We're Looking ForBachelor's degree in Biology, Zoology, Animal Science, or a related field (or equivalent experience)Professional animal care experience in a zoo, aquarium, wildlife facility, sanctuary, or similar settingKnowledge of animal husbandry, enrichment, and behavior trainingExperience using operant conditioning techniquesStrong communication and teamwork skillsAbility to work independently with attention to detailAbility to lift up to 50 pounds and work in various animal care environmentsWhy Join Wonders of Wildlife?Care for an incredible collection of animal species from around the worldWork alongside experienced animal care professionalsOpportunities for growth from Keeper I to Senior KeeperBe part of an AZA-accredited organization dedicated to conservation and educationMake a lasting impact on animal welfare and guest experiencesBenefitsMedical, Dental, and Vision InsuranceCompany-Paid Life InsuranceShort-Term and Long-Term Disability401(k)Paid Time OffEmployee Discounts at Attractions and Retail LocationsAbout Wonders of WildlifeJohnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium is a world-class conservation attraction featuring more than 35,000 live animals and immersive wildlife experiences. Recognized by USA TODAY as one of America's best aquariums and attractions, Wonders of Wildlife inspires millions of guests through conservation, education, and extraordinary animal experiences.Apply today and turn your passion for animal care into a rewarding career.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro