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Animal Behaviour Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animal Research Associate

Everett, WA ยท On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Research Associate As a Research Associate, you will perform and assist with technical procedures ... Monitor and report changes in animal behavior or health, and address issues with animal rooms ...

Animal Research Technician

Waverly, NY ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Animal Research Technician Clinvet NY - Waverly, NY About Us Clinvet NY is a global veterinary ... Observe and report changes in animal health, behavior, or consumption patterns * Collect specimens ...

Animal Research Technician

Waverly, NY ยท On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Animal Research Technician Clinvet NY - Waverly, NY About Us Clinvet NY is a global veterinary ... Observe and report changes in animal health, behavior, or consumption patterns * Collect specimens ...

Animal Research Technician Clinvet NY - Waverly, NY About Us Clinvet NY is a global veterinary ... Observe and report changes in animal health, behavior, or consumption patterns * Collect specimens ...

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL ยท On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

You'll also complete meaningful projects, like animal behavior research, that help you build professional skills for your future career. What You'll Do: * Assist keepers with daily animal care ...

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Animal Behaviour Research information

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$11

$22

$37

How much do animal behaviour research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal behaviour research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is animal behaviour research?

Animal behaviour research is the scientific study of how animals interact with each other, their environments, and other living beings. It involves observing, recording, and analyzing behaviours such as communication, mating, feeding, and social structures in a variety of species. Researchers use these studies to understand the evolutionary, ecological, and physiological reasons behind specific animal behaviours, which can help in conservation efforts and improving animal welfare. The field combines principles from biology, psychology, and ecology.

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

To thrive as an Animal Behaviour Researcher, you need a solid background in biology or psychology, research methodology, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree (such as a BSc or MSc in animal behaviour or a related field). Familiarity with statistical software (like R or SPSS), behavioral observation tools, and sometimes certifications in animal handling or welfare are typically required. Strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help researchers design studies, interpret findings, and collaborate with peers. These competencies are essential for producing reliable scientific results, advancing understanding in the field, and ensuring ethical research practices.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in animal behaviour research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in animal behaviour research often encounter challenges such as unpredictable animal responses, difficulties in data collection due to environmental factors, and the need for ethical considerations when designing studies. Addressing these challenges requires patience, adaptability, and strong observation skills. Collaborating with experienced colleagues and staying updated on best practices can also help in overcoming obstacles and ensuring research integrity.

What is the difference between Animal Behaviour Research vs Animal Care Technician?

AspectAnimal Behaviour ResearchAnimal Care Technician
Required CredentialsDegree in biology, zoology, or psychology; research experienceHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, field sitesAnimal shelters, zoos, veterinary clinics
Employer & IndustryResearch institutions, universities, biotech companiesAnimal shelters, zoos, veterinary clinics
Common Search & ComparisonAnimal Behaviour Research vs Animal Care Technician

Animal Behaviour Research focuses on studying animal behavior through experiments and observations, often requiring specialized degrees and research skills. In contrast, Animal Care Technicians provide daily care and support for animals in shelters or zoos, with less emphasis on research credentials. Both roles are vital in animal-related industries but serve different purposes and environments.

More about Animal Behaviour Research jobs

What cities are hiring for Animal Behaviour Research jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Behaviour Research job openings:

What states have the most Animal Behaviour Research jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Behaviour Research jobs include:

Infographic showing various Animal Behaviour Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Animal Keeper 1 (African Watering Hole)

Maryland Zoo

Baltimore, MD โ€ข On-site

$19.20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Maryland Zoo is an EEO Employer - M/F/Disability/Protected Veteran Status
General Summary: The Animal Keeper 1 (African Watering Hole) will provide care and maintenance of the animals and their associated exhibits and holding areas. The Animal Keeper is responsible for working collaboratively with other keepers and coworkers to achieve departmental and Zoo-wide initiatives. The Animal Keeper will report to their assigned Area Manager and the General Curator. Additionally, the Animal Keeper will support the Zoo's mission to save wildlife and protect wild places and contribute to its environmental, social, governance sustianability, conservation, education, and DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion) goals.
Essential Functions:
Primary Function:
  • Provides basic daily husbandry, food and water for animals in assigned area in accordance with department and area standards
  • Observes behavior and physical condition of animals, and reports concerns to area supervisor
  • Transfers animals between enclosures in accordance with department and area standards, and follows established safety guidelines
  • Provides approved enrichment to animals in compliance with behavior team requirements
  • Participates in approved training programs in compliance with behavior team requirements
  • Maintains daily electronic records to track animal behavior and well-being over time
  • Attends annual welfare assessments and submits regular welfare evaluations
  • Participates in data collection for approved behavior and research projects
  • Participates in animal medical procedures as directed by the area supervisor
  • Participates in animal escape drills and incidents as directed by the recapture coordinator
  • Conducts daily inspections of animal facilities, animal equipment and area buildings for structural defects and potential safety issues, and reports concerns to area supervisor
  • Performs minor repairs and maintenance of animal facilities, animal equipment and area buildings as needed
  • Maintains cleanliness of animal facilities, area buildings, public spaces and back of house areas
  • Implements pest control measures as needed, and in accordance with the Zoo's pest control program
  • Complies with all AZA standards and USDA regulations
  • Adheres to all policies and procedures of the department and the Zoo
  • May train new staff on daily area routines with oversight from higher level keepers or manager.

Communication (Internal and External):
  • Completes daily records for tracking animal health, animal behavior, enrichment and training
  • Reviews area records and updates in order to stay informed of new developments and changes in assigned area
  • Checks Zoo email regularly for updates from department and Zoo management
  • Provides area supervisor with timely updates on animal concerns
  • Actively participates in team meetings, discussions and debriefings
  • Adheres to the Zoo's communication policy regarding social media posts and confidentiality
  • Enhances the guest experience by actively engaging with visitors
  • Supports the Zoo's mission by sharing the organization's conservation messages with visitors and the general public

Management of Resources (financial, human resources, facilities):
  • Proper storage and use of animal food items and animal medications
  • Proper use and care of Zoo radios and cell phones, and timely reporting of issues
  • Safe use of Zoo vehicles and timely reporting of issues, including any accidents
  • Maintenance and safe use of tools and minor equipment, including kitchen knives

Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in zoology, biology, or a related field of study strongly preferred.

Experience/Training:
  • At least one year of animal care experience with applicable species preferred
  • Zoo experience preferred (paid or unpaid)
  • Understanding of current trends in animal training and behavior management
  • Able to collect and collate data for studying animal behavior
  • Familiarity with electronic communication and record-keeping
  • Must possess a valid driver's license

Traits Desirable:
  • Ability to work with a wide variety of individuals from ethnic, cultural and economic backgrounds;
  • Ability to operate both independently and as part of a team in a productive, respectful, and efficient manner with proper time management skills;
  • Extremely well organized, self-directed, collaborative, and detail oriented; and,
  • Possess a positive attitude and a general philosophy/outlook in line with the Zoo's mission.

Equipment:
  • Must be able to operate a variety of machines and equipment including computer, telephone, radio, and vehicles, hand tools, animal restraint and capture devices, incubators, gardening/carpentry tools and machinery, scales, etc.

Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to lift 75 pounds with assistance and 50 pounds unassisted as needed;
  • Must be able to climb a ladder carrying up to 15 pounds;
  • Must be able to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, 25 pounds frequently and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • Physical demands are in excess of those for sedentary work; Must be able to stand and remain active for an eight-hour shift; must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, push, pull, climb, balance;
  • Must be able to travel large areas of the Zoo on foot as needed;
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule to include weekends, holidays, and special events;
  • Must be able to work in an outdoor weather environment in all seasons and weather, including heat/humidity, cold temperatures, and/or wet conditions;
  • Exposure to zoonotic diseases and risk of animal attack;
  • Exposure to potential environmental hazards such as poison oak/ivy, uneven terrain, insect bites/stings, and Hepatitis B depending on the position; and,
  • Initial tuberculosis (TB) test and physical required.

Benefits:
  • We offer an excellent benefits package including 24 days of Paid Time Off (PTO), Sick and Safe Leave, and 2 paid holidays.
  • Eligible for medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • 401(k) with employer match.

Disclaimer:
The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and/or skills required of all personnel so classified. Therefore, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change.
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