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Entry Level Animal Behavior Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animal Care Attendant

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$16.41 - $19.95/hr

... animal care and behavior. The ideal candidate must also have experience with cleaning and ... Candidates who exceed entry level qualifications may be considered, with approval from the Board of ...

Kennel Tech

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Position Overview: * Experience is not required - this is an entry-level position with ... Ability to quickly learn animal behavior and body language. * Comfortable handling high-stress ...

Animal Care Attendant

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$17.23 - $19.95/hr

... animal care and behavior. The ideal candidate must also have experience with cleaning and ... Candidates who exceed entry level qualifications may be considered, with approval from the Board of ...

Assistants are entry-level positions for Emerging Professionals with an interest in working with ... Assistants will be trained in all aspects of the position, including animal behavior, husbandry ...

Pet Resort Technician

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.50/hr

This is an entry level position; previous experience working with animals is preferred, but not ... Position requires patience and the ability to handle difficult behavior in a gentle & effective ...

Pet Resort Technician

Livermore, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $16.50/hr

This is an entry level position; previous experience working with animals is preferred, but not ... Position requires patience and the ability to handle difficult behavior in a gentle & effective ...

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon ...

Together, we support thousands of local animal welfare groups nationwide and have helped find homes ... May need to train, support, and supervise entry-level trainees in the absence of a Grooming Salon ...

Entry Level Animal Behavior information

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level animal behaviorist?

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 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.

How to get into entry level animal behavior?

To enter an entry-level animal behavior role, gaining a bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, psychology, or a related field is often required. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering at animal shelters, or working with research projects can improve job prospects. Developing skills in observation, data collection, and understanding animal welfare is also beneficial.

What jobs can I get with an entry level animal behavior degree?

Entry level animal behavior degrees can qualify you for roles such as animal care technician, zoo assistant, or research assistant, where understanding animal behavior and basic observation skills are essential. These positions often involve working in shelters, zoos, or research facilities and may require certifications in animal handling or safety protocols.

What jobs can you get with entry level animal behavior?

Entry-level animal behavior roles include positions such as animal care technician, zoo assistant, or pet trainer, which often require basic knowledge of animal needs and behavior. These jobs typically involve working in shelters, zoos, or veterinary clinics and may require certifications like pet first aid or animal handling training.

What are the most commonly searched types of Animal Behavior jobs in California?

The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in California?

For Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Animal Care Attendant

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

County of Tehama
Public Administration • 501 - 1,000 employees

$16.41 - $19.95/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description Click here to learn more about the Tehama County Animal Care Center. Click here to learn more about Tehama County. Tehama County is looking for a compassionate and driven individual who has experience with animals of different species and has knowledge of animal care and behavior.

The ideal candidate must also have experience with cleaning and sanitation, including a strong attention to detail for the health and safety of the animals in our care. They must also demonstrate good judgment when making decisions, communicate effectively orally and in writing, and work cooperatively as part of a team. SALARY (B-E Steps) Animal Care Attendant: $17.23 - $19.95 Hourly/$1,378.40 - $1,596.00 Biweekly Position Description: Under direction of the Animal Care Specialist and the Animal Care Center Manager, performs a combination of kennel and animal care work, with an emphasis on kennel cleaning and sanitation

Includes maintaining clean and sanitary conditions, handling domestic animals (including livestock); cleaning kennels, cages and pens; animal care (including assisting with medical care); and working with volunteers. Provides information and assistance to the general public. Performs related work as required.

Examples of Duties Cleans and disinfects kennels, cages, play yards, vehicles, equipment, and other areas of the shelter. Feeds, waters, and cares for all animals at the shelter. Handles animals humanely and effectively under stressful situations, including bathing, grooming, and medical treatment.

Handles frightened, fractious, and injured animals humanely. Safely handles and transports animals from the Animal Care Center to a veterinary clinic or another shelter as needed. Click here to view the full job description.

Education, Experience & Licenses Minimum Qualifications: Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade. One (1) year experience in customer service. Environmental experience around animals is preferred.

Other combinations of education and experience may be considered. License & Special Requirements: Possession of, or ability to obtain and maintain, a valid California Class C driver's license and a satisfactory driving record is required. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Recruitment Information The Department is recruiting for one (1) vacancy. In addition, Tehama County is establishing an eligibility list to fill future vacancies for an Animal Care Attendant, as well as subsequent vacancies which occur during the life of the eligibility list. New employees should anticipate being hired at the beginning step of the salary range.

Candidates who exceed entry level qualifications may be considered, with approval from the Board of Supervisors, for placement at other than A step. Please submit ALL required documents when applying such as, copies of all required degrees and/or certifications as outlined in the job description. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

For questions about this recruitment please contact: Shawnee Winterson | 530-527-3439 | swinterson@tehama.gov All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of background, fingerprinting, drug test and physical examination provided by the County. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER / AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANT / VETERANS' PREFERENCE POLICY / DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE.