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Animal Behavior Jobs in Springfield, MO (NOW HIRING)

Petco

Assistant Manager

Springfield, MO · On-site

Uphold Petco's animal care standards, ensuring the health, safety, and proper handling of all ... Serve as a role model for Petco values, behaviors, and service standards. * Coach partners to ...

Krispy Kreme

Doughnut Maker

Springfield, MO · On-site

$9.50 - $12.75/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

Doughnut Maker

Springfield, MO

$9.50 - $12.75/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 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 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 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.

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:
What are popular job titles related to Animal Behavior jobs in Springfield, MO? 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Animal Keeper 1 or 2 Ambassador Team

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium

Springfield, MO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Springfield, Missouri | Full-Time

Do you have a passion for wildlife, conservation, and creating unforgettable experiences for guests? Join the team at Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, one of America's premier wildlife attractions and an AZA-accredited institution dedicated to exceptional animal care, conservation, and education.

As a Keeper 1 or 2, you'll play an important role in caring for a diverse collection of animals while helping inspire the next generation of conservationists.

A Day in the Life

Every day brings something new. As a Keeper 1 or 2, you'll work directly with animals and the environments they call home. Your responsibilities may include:

  • Preparing and delivering diets for a variety of species
  • Monitoring animal health, behavior, and overall well-being
  • Maintaining clean, safe, and enriching habitats
  • Recording daily observations and supporting animal care documentation
  • Assisting with exhibit maintenance and operational tasks
  • Supporting educational programs and guest interactions
  • Collaborating with a dedicated team to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare

This is a hands-on role where you'll experience the rewards of making a meaningful impact on both animal care and visitor engagement.

What Makes You a Great Fit

Successful candidates are passionate about wildlife and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment. Key qualities include:

  • Knowledge of animal behavior, biology, or animal husbandry
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities
  • A positive, reliable work ethic
  • Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills
  • Commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and guest experience
Benefits & Perks

We value our team members and offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Life Insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Employee Discounts
  • Professional growth and development opportunities
  • The opportunity to work alongside passionate experts in a world-class facility
Why Wonders of Wildlife?

At Wonders of Wildlife, you'll be part of an organization recognized for excellence in animal care, conservation, and education. You'll have the unique opportunity to work in a dynamic environment that houses thousands of animals while helping guests develop a deeper connection to the natural world.

If you're ready to turn your passion for wildlife into a meaningful career, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply