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Animal Behaviorist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Columbus Humane

Animal Behavior Associate

Hilliard, OH · On-site

$22/hr

Animal Behavior Associate Department: Veterinary Services Reports To: Animal Behavior Manager Classification: Full-Time, non-exempt (hourly) Pay: $22/hour Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday 8am-4:30pm ...

Lifeline Animal Project Inc

Animal Care Lead

Chamblee, GA · On-site

$18.50 - $20/hr

The Animal Care Lead coordinates with the Animal Care Supervisor and other departments to ensure that all animals are healthy, behaviorally sound, and ready for placement. Essential Job Functions:

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How much do animal behaviorist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal behaviorist in the United States is $58,890.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal behaviorist?

An animal behaviorist studies the causes, motivations, and influences of the actions of animals. As an animal behaviorist, you may focus on domesticated animals and pets, such as horses, dogs, or cats, or you may choose to study wild animals, including primates, big cats, birds, elephants, or whales. Your job duties involve observing animals in captivity and their natural habitats, recording and documenting observational data about the animals’ behavior and health, and analyzing your research to figure out why animals behave in certain ways. This job requires excellent research and analytical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal behaviorist?

To thrive as an Animal Behaviorist, you need a background in animal science, psychology, or biology, often supported by a relevant degree and, in some cases, certification from organizations such as the Animal Behavior Society. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, data analysis software, and animal training protocols is typically required. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication are essential soft skills for working with animals and their owners. These skills ensure accurate behavior modification, successful client relationships, and improved animal welfare outcomes.

What are some common challenges animal behaviorists face when working with clients and their pets?

Animal Behaviorists often encounter challenges such as managing clients' expectations for quick results and navigating the emotional complexities owners feel about their pets' behavior. Collaboration and clear communication are essential, as behavior modification requires consistent effort from the pet owner. Additionally, each animal presents unique behavioral histories, so Animal Behaviorists must tailor their approaches and remain adaptable while ensuring the safety and well-being of both animals and humans.

What is the difference between Animal Behaviorist vs Animal Trainer?

AspectAnimal BehavioristAnimal Trainer
CredentialsOften requires advanced degrees (e.g., Master's or Ph.D.) in animal behavior, psychology, or related fieldsTypically requires certification or experience; formal education is less common
Work EnvironmentResearch settings, clinics, zoos, or consultingPet training facilities, shelters, or private homes
Employer & IndustryVeterinary clinics, research institutions, zoos, or consulting firmsPet owners, shelters, or training centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Animal Behaviorists focus on understanding and modifying complex animal behaviors through scientific methods, often working in research or clinical settings. Animal Trainers primarily teach animals specific behaviors or commands, often working directly with pet owners or in training facilities. While both roles involve working with animals, Behaviorists require more advanced education and focus on behavioral analysis, whereas Trainers focus on practical training techniques.

Do animal behaviorists make good money?

Animal behaviorists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and work setting, but they generally earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills, such as research or consulting, can offer higher compensation. Certification and a strong understanding of animal psychology can also influence earning potential.

What jobs can an animal behaviorist do?

An animal behaviorist can work in settings such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, research laboratories, zoos, and private consulting. They analyze animal behavior, develop training or treatment plans, and may specialize in areas like wildlife, domestic animals, or conservation. Certification and strong observational skills are often important for these roles.
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Animal Behaviorist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behaviorist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,890 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist

Barkera

Fort Lauderdale, FL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description


Barkera is seeking a Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist (DACVB) to join our expert network and serve as a leading authority in canine behavioral health education, prevention, and owner guidance.
This role is ideal for a veterinary behaviorist who is passionate about:
  • Educating pet owners on humane, evidence-based behavior management
  • Preventing behavioral issues through early education
  • Addressing behavior from a medical, neurobiological, epigenetics and environmental lens
  • Disseminating breed-specific educational content for pet owners to learn preventative pet care
  • Improving outcomes through collaboration between veterinarians, trainers, and owners

This is a non-clinical, educational and advisory role, designed to extend your impact beyond individual cases while respecting the Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR).
Both remote participation and select in-person opportunities are available.
Requirements
As a Board-Certified Veterinary Behaviorist with Barkera, you may contribute in the following areas:
Behavioral Health Education & Content Development:
  • Develop and review evidence-based behavioral health education across multiple formats, including:
    • In-depth written guides and articles
    • Video, audio, and webinar-based instruction
    • Courses, diagrams, and clinical behavior explainers
    • Owner-facing resources addressing behavior prevention and intervention
  • Translate complex topics such as:
    • Neurobiology of behavior
    • Fear, anxiety, stress, and arousal systems
    • Aggression (diagnosis, risk factors, prevention-not diagnosis or treatment of individual cases)
    • Address root causes of behavior through education on gut-microbiome and gut-brain axis connectiosn to behavior
    • Developmental periods and socialization
    • Behavioral effects of pain, illness, and endocrine disorders

Advisory & Curriculum Development
  • Contribute to the design of:
    • Structured behavior education curricula and learning pathways
    • Preventative behavior frameworks for puppies and adolescents
    • Assessment tools, quizzes, and retention-based learning resources
    • Review behavior-related content for:
    • Scientific accuracy and ethical alignment
    • Appropriate scope (education vs. clinical intervention)
    • Consistency with DACVB and AVSAB standards

Thought Leadership & Multidisciplinary Collaboration
  • Participate in:
    • Expert panels, roundtables, and live Q&A sessions
    • Cross-disciplinary collaboration with veterinarians, trainers, breeders, and animal behavior professionals
    • Strategic initiatives focused on improving behavior education standards across the pet industry
  • Educate pet owners on:
    • The difference between training, behavior modification, and medical behavioral conditions
    • When referral to a veterinary behaviorist is appropriate
    • How to communicate effectively with veterinary and training professionals

Areas of Behavioral Expertise We Value
All DACVB-certified professionals are encouraged to apply.
Particular areas of interest include:
  • Canine fear, anxiety, and stress-related disorders
  • Aggression risk assessment and prevention education
  • Puppy socialization and early behavioral development
  • Adolescent behavior and impulse control
  • Behavioral impacts of pain, illness, and chronic disease
  • Psychopharmacology education (high-level, non-prescriptive)
  • Environmental enrichment and welfare-focused behavior strategies
  • Human-animal bond and owner education
  • Epigenetics

Qualifications & Requirements
  • DVM or VMD degree
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists (DACVB)
  • Active veterinary licensure (or eligibility, where applicable)
  • Demonstrated expertise in veterinary behavioral medicine
  • Strong commitment to education, prevention, and ethical behavior practices
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Comfort contributing through digital platforms and remote collaboration tools
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating with a multidisciplinary expert team
  • Openness to professional dialogue, peer review, and constructive scientific discussion
  • Prior experience in teaching, writing, speaking, or curriculum development strongly preferred

Engagement Format
  • Remote Opportunities:
    • Educational content creation and review
    • Virtual panels, webinars, and Q&A sessions
    • Curriculum development and strategic advisory work
  • In-Person Opportunities (Optional):
    • Workshops, summits, and industry events
    • Educational filming or live presentations
    • Strategic collaboration sessions

Participation level and scheduling are flexible and self-directed.
Benefits
As part of the Barkera Expert Network, you will have access to:
  • Flexible, work-from-anywhere engagement
  • Opportunities to expand your professional reach nationally and globally
  • Coaching and mentorship programs to support ongoing professional growth
  • A platform to responsibly showcase your expertise and thought leadership
  • Access to deeply discounted Barkera products and services
  • Exclusive Private Travel Membership, including pet travel benefits
  • Discounts across 40+ "Powered By Barkera" technologies to support your professional or academic endeavors
  • Direct collaboration with Barkera leadership and a curated network of top-tier pet industry experts
  • Optional participation in paid engagements, research initiatives, and revenue-sharing opportunities

Equal Opportunity Statement
Barkera Corp. is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

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