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Entry Level Animal Behavior Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Elite K9 Club

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 ...

LIVERMORE KENNELS INC

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 ...

LIVERMORE KENNELS INC

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 ...

City of Atascadero, CA

Zookeeper I

Atascadero, CA · On-site

$49K - $59K/yr

This job class functions at an entry-level of classification. As knowledge, background, and skills ... Assists staff in behavioral enrichment of animal collection. * Assists staff and veterinarian with ...

City of Atascadero

Zookeeper I

Atascadero, CA

$49K - $59K/yr

This job class functions at an entry-level of classification. As knowledge, background, and skills ... Assists staff in behavioral enrichment of animal collection. Assists staff and veterinarian with ...

All JobsAnimal Behavior JobsEntry Level Animal Behavior JobsEntry Level Animal Behavior Jobs in California

Entry Level Animal Behavior information

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 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.

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 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 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:
Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, and 34% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Kennel Tech

Elite K9 Club

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Join Our Pack! Animal Care Attendant – Elite K9 Club!

Elite K9 Club is looking for a dedicated and reliable Animal Care Attendant to join our team! If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, and love to clean, this could be the perfect fit for you!

Position Overview:
  • Experience is not required – this is an entry-level position with opportunities for advancement.
  • This position requires maintaining a clean environment all day, every day.
  • Starting pay: $18-$20 per hour with overtime pay after 8 hours per shift.
  • Full-time and part-time positions available. (All shifts are from 7am-7pm. Part time is 2 days per week, full time 3-4 days ).
  • All shifts are 12 hours shifts (11 paid hours).
  • Shifts: 12-hour shifts from 7 AM – 7 PM, with a 1-hour lunch (12 PM – 1 PM) and two 15-minute breaks.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Provide exceptional customer service to pet owners.
  • Maintain cleanliness by sanitizing and cleaning the entire facility daily.
  • Ensure attention to detail in all tasks.
  • Write and respond to professional emails.
  • Review vaccine records for pets.
  • Work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Sanitize all play yards and remove animal waste regularly.
  • Clean and sanitize food and water bowls.
  • Feed, monitor, and care for the pets in our facility.
  • Administer medications and complete necessary documentation.
  • Organize and relocate pets within designated areas as needed.
  • Communicate effectively with team members throughout the day.
  • Supervise pets in play areas to ensure their safety.
  • Maintain a friendly, positive attitude with both pets and clients.

Job Requirements:
  • Understanding we are cleaning most of the day. 
  • Strong customer service skills and professionalism.
  • Ability to work with integrity and responsibility.
  • Excellent time management and multitasking skills.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities and initiative.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Janitorial skills to maintain a clean and sanitary environment.
  • Ability to quickly learn animal behavior and body language.
  • Comfortable handling high-stress situations.
  • Comfortable in a loud environment.
  • Basic computer skills and ability to write professional emails.

Physical & Special Requirements:
  • Punctuality and reliability.
  • Ability to work in various weather conditions (hot, cold, wet).
  • Must be able to lift and carry 50+ lbs (e.g., dog food bags, trash bags).
  • Tolerate loud environments.
  • Work well under stress.
  • Can multitask well.
  • Comfortable working with animals of various temperaments and medical needs.
  • Strength to handle and control large dogs who may be aggressive.
  • Ability to maintain a safe and structured pack-play environment.
  • Strong ability to follow instructions and protocols.

Benefits & Compensation:
  • Overtime pay.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • 401K.
  • Tips.

If you’re passionate about animals and want to be part of a hardworking, and fun-loving team, we’d love to hear from you!