1

Animal Behaviorist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$48K - $68K/yr

Animal behavior and animal control methods * Occupational hazards and applicable safety principles and practices * Standard practices, methods, and materials of assigned work * Uses and properties of ...

You'll learn animal behavior in order to provide a safe environment, including studying canine body language and learning how to make dogs comfortable in a kennel and playgroup environment.

Kennel Team Member

Cary, NC · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

Familiarity with common animal behavior and health indicators. * Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays. * Strong communication skills to effectively interact with team ...

Animal Resources Officer

Pittsboro, NC · On-site

$56K - $72K/yr

Thorough knowledge of animal care and behavior and the safe handling and general welfare practices of small and large domestic and wild animals; * Thorough knowledge of rabies and rabies management ...

Essential Job Duties The Large Animal Attendant provides essential, high-quality animal husbandry ... Observe and report any changes in patient behavior, appetite, or physical condition to the ...

Lead Kennel

Durham, NC · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Basic knowledge of animal behavior, health, and safety protocols, or a willingness to learn. * Comfortable leading a team and helping others do their best work. * Organized, reliable, and a strong ...

An employee in this position performs effective enforcement of the County's animal control ordinance through observation, behavior assessment, trapping, applying animal services law and conducting ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Animal Behaviorist information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$46.7K

$57.2K

$82.1K

How much do animal behaviorist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal behaviorist in Raleigh, NC is $57,242.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $58,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can an animal behaviorist do?

An animal behaviorist can work in settings such as veterinary clinics, animal shelters, research institutions, 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 knowledge of animal psychology and training techniques are often required.

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.

How much does an animal behaviorist get paid?

Animal behaviorists typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Those with advanced degrees or specialized certifications may earn higher salaries, especially in research or consulting roles.

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 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?

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 popular job titles related to Animal Behaviorist jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Animal Behaviorist jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Behaviorist jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Behaviorist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Animal Behaviorist jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Animal Behaviorist job openings:
Infographic showing various Animal Behaviorist job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,242 per year, or $27.5 per hour.

Animal Control Officer

City of Raleigh North Carolina

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$48K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Job Description This is responsible non-sworn work in enforcing ordinances and statutes relating to the control of animals. Work involves patrolling an assigned area of the city in search of stray animals or violations of animal ordinances. Work includes responding to citizens' complaints regarding possible ordinance violations and taking appropriate action, including the issuance of citations.

Work includes the taking into custody, care, and transportation of stray and injured animals and their delivery to the animal shelter. Work is performed under general supervision and in accordance with established operating procedures and oral and written directives. Work involves considerable public contact and requires the exercise of tact and discretion in specific situations.

Work is reviewed through direct observation of work habits and evaluation of results achieved. Duties and Responsibilities The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by employees in this job. Employees may be requested to perform job-related tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.

Patrols a designated work area of the city in an animal control vehicle to respond to animal control related cases Ensures public safety by responding to reports of animal bites and rabies exposure, and sick or injured animals Captures and processes stray, loose, and surrendered animals into the Animal Shelter and completes paperwork and documentation Issues warrants, criminal summons, and citations for violations of animal ordinances and the enforcement of animal-related laws and general statutes. Responds to assigned calls for animal control service involving animal control issues Conducts preliminary and follow-up investigations of animal control violations Interviews persons including witnesses, victims, and suspects having information about animal control issues Collects, packages and preserves evidence in animal control cases Prepares written reports and notes of animal control investigations Presents probable cause to magistrate for summons and misdemeanor warrants regarding animal control violations Provides community service functions including talks at community meetings and provides school education Provides the public with information on laws, ordinances, regulations, on animal control services as required Is capable of working rotating shifts Communicates effectively and coherently over radio channels Exercises independent and good judgment when dealing with the public Wears assigned uniform and equipment as required Has regular and predictable performance (e.g., non-scheduled absenteeism) Gets along well with others Is able to work independent of direct supervision Utilizes directed and self-directed work time in an efficient, effective and safe manner Subordinates to lawful commands of supervisor ranked personnel Protects the public image and reputation of the Raleigh Police Department Testifies in court for animal-related crimes Performs related work as required Typical Qualifications Required Education & Experience High school graduate or GED equivalent; 1 to 3 years experience in animal control enforcement, or related work with wild or domesticated animals; OR Any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted Required Licenses & Certifications Valid North Carolina Class C Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record, or the ability to obtain within 60 days of hire Preferred Education & Experience Investigative or similar type work experience Additional Information Knowledge of: Rabies exposure protocols Animal behavior and animal control methods Occupational hazards and applicable safety principles and practices Standard practices, methods, and materials of assigned work Uses and properties of supplies and equipment Specialized equipment relevant to area of assignment Customer service principles Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, regulations Modern office practices and procedures including the use of standard office equipment and computer applications such as word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications Geography associated with the City of Raleigh and Wake County, North Carolina. Local and state ordinances, laws and regulations pertaining to the general care and control of animals or an ability to acquire such knowledge rapidly Ability to: Work under adverse weather conditions Understand animal control procedures Remain patient in trying situations and maintain professionalism Read, interpret, and explain rules, regulations and procedures Use safe restraint methods for controlling animals Establish and maintain effective relationships with the public Keep simple records and to prepare routine reports Follow oral and written directions Document routine and investigative activities on proper administrative reports and maintain those files and records Display a history of being able to properly handle small or larger animals, both wild and domesticated Work efficiently within different computer software systems Skill In: Following directions and meetings standards Providing attention to detail in assignments Monitoring and observing in order to detect violations of animal ordinances Preparing and maintaining activity reports and logs Comprehending reference books and manuals Operating assigned tools and equipment Interpreting and applying applicable laws, codes, regulations, and standards Providing customer service Utilizing a computer and relevant software applications Utilizing communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interactions with coworkers, supervisors, the general public, and other to sufficiently exchange or convey information and to receive work direction Operation of automotive equipment such as a pickup truck Written and oral communication ADA and Other Requirements: Work Environment and Physical Effort: Medium: Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects

Work Environment: Work is typically performed in an outdoor environment, near moving traffic, and in a vehicle.?Employees will occasionally work in an office or similar environment. Work Exposure: There is frequent exposure to individuals who are hostile or irate, communicable diseases and loud noises. Employees may occasionally be exposed to individuals with known violent backgrounds, extreme cold (below 32 degrees) in extreme heat (above 100 degrees) and toxic or caustic chemicals or substances.

City of Raleigh is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.