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Comparative Psychologist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Comparative Psychologist information

See Washington salary details

$12.5K

$105.1K

$451.3K

How much do comparative psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for comparative psychologist in Washington is $105,120.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,300.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a comparative psychologist?

A Comparative Psychologist studies the behavior and cognitive processes of different animal species, including humans, to understand evolution, learning, and adaptation. They conduct experiments, observe behavior, and analyze data to identify similarities and differences across species. Their work helps in areas such as animal welfare, conservation, and neuroscience. Comparative Psychologists may work in research institutions, universities, zoos, or government agencies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a comparative psychologist?

To thrive as a Comparative Psychologist, you need strong research and analytical skills, a background in biology or psychology, and typically a graduate degree (PhD or Master's) in psychology or a related field. Experience with statistical software, behavioral assessment tools, and scientific writing are common technical requirements. Excellent observational skills, curiosity, and clear communication enhance one’s ability to collaborate and convey complex findings. These skills are essential for designing rigorous studies, interpreting animal behavior, and advancing scientific understanding in comparative psychology.

What are some common work environments or settings for comparative psychologists?

Comparative Psychologists often work in academic or research institutions, such as universities, where they may teach, mentor students, and conduct experiments in laboratory settings. Others are employed by zoos, animal research facilities, or government agencies, focusing on animal behavior, welfare, or cognition. Collaboration with veterinarians, biologists, and other psychologists is typical, providing a dynamic and interdisciplinary work environment. Depending on the focus, the role may involve fieldwork, direct animal observation, data analysis, and presenting findings at conferences or in publications.

How much do comparative psychologists make?

Comparative psychologists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees and research experience can lead to higher salaries, especially in academic or research institutions.

What careers use comparative psychology?

Comparative psychologists often work in academic research, studying animal behavior and cognition, or in applied settings such as wildlife conservation, animal training, and veterinary sciences. They may also work in zoos, laboratories, or environmental organizations, utilizing skills in observation, data analysis, and experimental design.

What does a comparative psychologist do?

A comparative psychologist studies the behavior, cognition, and evolution of different animal species to understand similarities and differences across species. They often conduct experiments, observe animals in natural or laboratory settings, and analyze data using scientific methods to explore how animals adapt and communicate. This work can involve working in research labs, universities, or conservation environments, and may require knowledge of biology, psychology, and research techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Comparative Psychologist jobs in Washington?

For Comparative Psychologist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Comparative Psychologist jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Comparative Psychologist jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Comparative Psychologist job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,120 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Lateral/Comparative Compliance Park Police Officer

The Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission

Riverdale Park, MD

$65K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Maryland-National Capital Park And Planning Commission rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

544th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) Prince George's County Park Police Division is currently accepting applications for Sworn Police Officers who are currently or previously certified in the State of Maryland (MPTC Certified) or meet Comparative Compliance standards. The M-NCPPC Park Police department is seeking men and women that exhibit characteristics of good character, sound judgment, honesty, reliability and integrity. Examples of Important Duties Patrols an assigned beat in a patrol car, motorcycle, or on horseback, or foot; observes and reports incidents of vandalism, violations of state law and park rules and regulations; notes and reports unsafe and unsightly conditions within parks; directs traffic and parking; responds to calls for service and renders assistance as needed; secures a crime or accident scene and takes initial statements from victims and witnesses; apprehends, arrests, and books suspects; writes reports on incidents encountered during patrol; and, On horseback performs crowd control duties during major events; grooms and examines horses for illness or injury; maintains tack and other equipment in good condition; feeds and stables horses at the end of shift; performs minor veterinary care; On motorcycle patrols bike paths and regional park areas; maintains motorcycles on a routine maintenance basis; On foot patrols regional parks or other areas on foot; assists with crowd control at ice rinks, concerts, etc.

May serve as Field Training Officer to supervise, instruct, and evaluate trainee police candidates during field training period. Prepares cases and appears in Court to testify as arresting officer or witness. May be assigned to perform preliminary or follow up investigations under supervision and prepares reports on evidence obtained.

Minimum Qualifications Must possess a valid motor vehicle operator's license. MPTC Certified or meet Comparative Compliance standards. Supplemental Information Invitations will be based on date of application submission.

Lateral candidates are required to successfully complete post-offer medical/stress/psychological evaluations and pass an extensive background investigation. Once a sufficient candidate pool has been achieved, this announcement will be closed and electronic notification will be provided to candidates regarding their scheduled date and time. Lateral candidates are required to successfully complete post-offer medical/stress/ psychological evaluations and pass an extensive background investigation.

May be subject to medical, drug and alcohol testing. The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate a workplace culture of diversity, equity and inclusion without discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, gender identity, or any other non-merit factor.

Applicants with Disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require accommodations or special arrangements due to a qualifying disability, please notify the Recruitment & Selections Services Unit at the time of applications at or 301-454-1411 (Maryland Relay 7-1-1) M-NCPPC will make all efforts to reasonably accommodate you.


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