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Entry Level Animal Behavior Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are currently networking for Animal Care Technicians, Animal Behavioral Specialists, Operations Specialists, Sr. Animal Scientists, and numerous entry level science roles. This is one example of a ...

Zoologist - Our entry-level animal care staff provide daily care for a variety of species while gaining valuable experience in husbandry, enrichment, and behavioral observation. Senior Zoologist ...

Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral ... behavior This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field ...

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Observe and document animal behavior for wellbeing assessments Required Qualifications * High school diploma or equivalent Preferred Qualifications * Entry-level experience in animal care * Animal ...

Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral ... behavior This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field ...

Animal Care Interns will be placed in one of the following areas Aquatics, Avian, Behavioral ... behavior This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field ...

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Entry Level Animal Behavior information

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$12

$20

$26

How much do entry level animal behavior jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal behavior in the United States is $20.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Animal Behaviorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Animal Behaviorist, you need a foundational understanding of animal behavior, biology, and psychology, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, data collection software, and animal care protocols is typically required. Strong observational skills, patience, and effective communication are important soft skills for working with both animals and their human caretakers. These skills ensure accurate behavior analysis, promote animal welfare, and facilitate successful collaboration within research or care teams.

What are some common challenges faced in an entry-level animal behavior role, and how can they be managed?

Entry-level animal behavior professionals often encounter challenges such as interpreting subtle animal cues, managing nervous or aggressive animals, and adapting to varied work environments like shelters, zoos, or research facilities. Building strong observation skills, maintaining patience, and consistently following safety protocols are essential for overcoming these challenges. Collaboration with experienced colleagues and seeking mentorship can also help new team members develop effective handling techniques and gain confidence in their assessments.

What is an entry level animal behaviorist?

An entry level animal behaviorist is a professional who studies the behavior of animals, often focusing on how animals interact with their environment, other animals, and humans. Individuals in this role may work in research, animal shelters, zoos, or with veterinarians to observe, record, and analyze animal behavior. Entry level positions typically involve assisting senior behaviorists, collecting data, and sometimes helping with animal training or enrichment activities. Most entry level animal behaviorists have a bachelor's degree in animal science, biology, psychology, or a related field. The role provides foundational experience for those interested in advanced study or specialized careers in animal behavior.

What is the difference between Entry Level Animal Behavior vs Entry Level Animal Care?

AspectEntry Level Animal BehaviorEntry Level Animal Care
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; certifications in animal behavior or psychology beneficialHigh school diploma; certifications in pet care or veterinary assisting helpful
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, zoos, animal training centersAnimal shelters, pet stores, veterinary clinics
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, zoos, animal training companiesAnimal shelters, pet care services, veterinary clinics
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles related to animal behavior analysisLooking for entry-level animal care positions

Entry Level Animal Behavior focuses on understanding and analyzing animal actions, often requiring knowledge of psychology and behavior modification. Entry Level Animal Care involves hands-on animal handling, feeding, and basic health care. Both roles are essential in animal-related industries but differ in focus and skill requirements.

More about Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs? The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 33% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 50% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $42,702 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
R&D Animal Behavior Technician

R&D Animal Behavior Technician

Actalent

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

We are currently networking for Animal Care Technicians, Animal Behavioral Specialists, Operations Specialists, Sr. Animal Scientists, and

numerous entry level science roles. This is one example of a position we are currently hiring for. Please apply if you are interested in ANY animal science positions at any level. We have connections with multiple animal science companies who have job openings in all segments!

Description

Summary: Provides care for laboratory animals before and after surgical procedures, including ongoing monitoring, data collection and providing for their basic needs in support of interventional and studies in accordance with procedures and study protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintains knowledge of applicable Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in order to successfully perform job duties, and GLP regulations in order to implement appropriate regulations as they apply to the non-clinical research environment and individual protocols.

• Dispenses medications as prescribed by veterinarian and/or protocol specifications.

• Performs and documents a variety of activities, including but not limited to, routine clinical observations, charting of physiological data and animal health status, taking study required animal weights, documentation of maintenance medicine administration, etc.

• Monitors animals during their critical recovery phase on the days following surgery, including performing TPRs (temp, pulse, respiration), auscultation of the heart and lungs, assessing pain of animals at incision sites, changing wound dressings and administering medications.

• Observe animal behavior to help determine potential issues/problems.

• Provide animal nourishment and care to boost morale of animals in studies.

Qualifications

Education/Experience:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in veterinary, biology, animal science or other animal science-related field is required.

• Knowledge of research animal physiology, pharmacology, and general animal care is preferred.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Minneapolis, MN.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Minneapolis,MN.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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