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Animal Behaviorist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pets In Need

Animal Behaviorist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Animal Behaviorist FLSA STATUS: Exempt, Full-time REPORTS TO: Behavior and Rescue Manager Summary Under the direction of the Behavior and Rescue Manager, the Behavior Supervisor provides leadership ...

Adecco

Animal Behavioral Specialist

Lewisburg, OH

$16/hr

As a Animal Behavioral Specialist, you work with dogs and cats, encourage socialization, clean kennels, and provide day to day care for all the animals. Apply now! Requirements: * High School Diploma ...

Clift Buick GMC

Animal Caretaker

Onsted, MI · On-site

$15/hr

Observing animal behavior and health, and reporting any concerns to the appropriate team member. * Assisting with enrichment activities for the cats, pigs, and birds. * Participating in training and ...

Clift Buick GMC

Animal Caretaker

Onsted, MI

$15/hr

Observing animal behavior and health, and reporting any concerns to the appropriate team member. * Assisting with enrichment activities for the cats, pigs, and birds. * Participating in training and ...

New

Clift Buick GMC

Animal Caretaker

Onsted, MI · On-site

$15/hr

Observing animal behavior and health, and reporting any concerns to the appropriate team member. * Assisting with enrichment activities for the cats, pigs, and birds. * Participating in training and ...

Clift Buick GMC

Animal Caretaker

Onsted, MI · On-site

$15/hr

Observing animal behavior and health, and reporting any concerns to the appropriate team member. * Assisting with enrichment activities for the cats, pigs, and birds. * Participating in training and ...

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Animal Behaviorist information

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$48K

$58.9K

$84.5K

How much do animal behaviorist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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 can I do with an animal behavior degree?

An animal behaviorist with a degree can work in research, wildlife conservation, zoos, or veterinary settings, studying and improving animal welfare and training. They often use observational skills, behavioral analysis, and may require certifications or advanced degrees for certain roles. Career options include animal trainer, conservation specialist, or research scientist.

What degree is needed to become an animal behaviorist?

Animal behaviorists typically need at least a bachelor's degree in biology, psychology, zoology, or a related field. Many positions require a master's degree or Ph.D. for advanced research or clinical work, along with experience in animal training, observation, and behavior analysis.

What do you do as an animal behaviorist?

An animal behaviorist studies and analyzes animal behavior to understand why animals act in certain ways. They develop training plans, modify behaviors, and may work with pet owners, shelters, or research facilities. The role often requires knowledge of animal psychology, observation skills, and sometimes certification or advanced education in animal sciences or psychology.

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.

What are animal behaviorists?

Animal behaviorists are specialists who study the behavior of animals to understand why they act a certain way and to help address behavioral issues. They apply scientific principles to observe, interpret, and modify animal behavior, often working with pets, zoo animals, or wildlife. Animal behaviorists may also help pet owners resolve problems such as aggression, anxiety, or destructive behaviors. Their work can involve research, consulting, and education, and they often collaborate with veterinarians, trainers, and animal shelters.

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.

How much do veterinary behaviorists make?

Veterinary behaviorists typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and work setting. They often hold a veterinary degree and specialized training in animal behavior, which can influence salary levels.

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 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 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.
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Animal Behaviorist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Behaviorist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,890 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
Animal Behaviorist

Animal Behaviorist

Pets In Need

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT
For more than 60 years, Pets In Need (PIN) has provided animals with loving care and lasting homes; partnered with communities striving to do the same, while advancing our no-kill policies and legacy. Our Vision is for animals to live in welcoming communities where they and their human companions are treated with care and compassion.
JOB TITLE: Animal Behaviorist
FLSA STATUS: Exempt, Full-time
REPORTS TO: Behavior and Rescue Manager
Summary
Under the direction of the Behavior and Rescue Manager, the Behavior Supervisor provides leadership and oversight for the behavioral health, enrichment, training, and overall well-being of Pets In Need animals across both shelter locations. This role is responsible for developing and implementing behavior support strategies from intake through placement, with an emphasis on individualized behavior planning, humane handling, enrichment, behavior modification, volunteer training, and cross-functional collaboration.
The Behavior Supervisor serves as a key resource for staff, fosters, volunteers, and leadership on animal behavior, with a strong focus on canine behavior and welfare. This position supports organizational decision-making related to quality of life, placement pathways, housing, behavior intervention, and safe, effective handling practices.
Essential Duties
  • Develops, implements, and evaluates individualized training, behavior modification, enrichment, and socialization plans for animals in shelter care and foster care.
  • Provides clear written and verbal guidance to staff, fosters, and volunteers to ensure consistent implementation of behavior plans and handling protocols.
  • Monitors and evaluates the behavioral health and welfare of animals across both shelter locations and identifies appropriate interventions to support emotional well-being, safety, and successful placement.
  • Assesses and recommends optimal housing, handling, enrichment, and management strategies for shelter animals based on behavior, stress level, medical needs, and quality of life considerations.
  • Collaborates with Pets In Need veterinarians, veterinary behaviorists, and other medical professionals to develop and implement behavior modification plans, including behavior medication support when appropriate.
  • Provides leadership, coaching, and training to animal care staff, foster caregivers, and volunteers on animal behavior, humane handling, training techniques, and shelter behavior best practices.
  • Oversees, trains, and directly manages advanced behavior volunteers, including blue-level volunteers.
  • Develops written behavior summaries, assessments, training updates, and recommendations to support internal decision-making, foster placement, adoption counseling, and rescue pathways.
  • Supports the development, evaluation, and ongoing improvement of behavior department protocols, including handling, enrichment, playgroup, socialization, assessment, and quality-of-life procedures.
  • Participates as a member of the Pets In Need Quality of Life Committee and contributes behavior-related expertise to case review and outcome planning.
  • Partners with Behavior, Rescue, Medical, Animal Care, Foster, and leadership teams to develop coordinated care plans for animals with complex behavioral, medical, or placement needs.
  • Supports rescue pathway planning and assists the Rescue department as needed.
  • Connects fosters and adopters with contracted behavior support resources when appropriate.
  • Oversees inventory, organization, and appropriate use of Behavior Department supplies and equipment.
  • Models professional, compassionate, inclusive, and welfare-centered leadership in all interactions with staff, volunteers, fosters, adopters, and community partners.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
To perform this role successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for success in this position.
Education and Experience
  • Education in animal behavior, animal welfare, psychology, biology, or a related field required; bachelor's degree in a related field strongly preferred.
  • Experience working in an animal shelter, rescue, veterinary, or animal welfare environment required.
  • Up to five years of related experience working with dogs required; experience with cats and feline behavior preferred.
  • Professional dog training certification such as CPDT, KPA-CTP, CTC, or equivalent strongly preferred, or willingness and ability to obtain certification within 6-9 months of hire.
  • Prior experience supervising, coaching, or training staff and/or volunteers required.
  • Demonstrated understanding of shelter behavior, humane training, enrichment, dog-dog interaction, stress reduction, and behavior modification.
  • Maintains current knowledge of fear-free, low-stress, and evidence-informed animal behavior and handling practices.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and shelter management databases required.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document behavior observations, recommendations, and plans clearly and professionally.
  • Strong organizational, problem-solving, collaboration, and time-management skills.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment, prioritize competing needs, and work effectively with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to remain calm, professional, and solution-focused in stressful, emotionally complex, or high-pressure situations.
  • Ability to build trust and communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, fosters, adopters, clients, and external partners.
  • Demonstrated commitment to positive, inclusive, compassionate, and welfare-centered leadership.

Physical Requirements
  • This position is moderately to highly physical and requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and animal handling.
  • Must be able to bend, twist, stoop, push, pull, ascend and descend stairs, reach overhead, lift up to 50 pounds, and lift overhead up to 20 pounds.
  • Must be comfortable safely handling and managing large dogs up to 100 pounds.
  • Must have the ability to see, hear, and speak in order to safely perform essential job functions.
  • Must be able to safely work around animals with varying levels of fear, stress, arousal, or reactivity.

Working Conditions
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.
  • Work may be performed remotely, on-site, outdoors, and in various shelter or community settings.
  • Must be able to travel between Pets In Need locations.
  • May involve exposure to loud noise, cleaning chemicals, animal waste, zoonotic disease risk, and animals who may be fearful, fractious, reactive, or potentially dangerous.
  • Requires the ability to remain professional and composed in an active shelter environment with changing priorities and emotionally sensitive situations.

The pay range for this role is:
85,000 - 90,000 USD per year (Palo Alto and Redwood City)

Apply