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Entry Level Animal Behavior Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for candidates looking to gain hands-on experience in ... Observe animal health, behavior, and physical characteristics and report concerns appropriately.

Entry Level Animal Behavior information

See Boston, MA salary details

$14

$22

$28

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal behavior in Boston, MA is $22.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.09 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Animal Behavior jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings in Boston, MA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,391 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Animal Care Technician

Actalent

Wilmington, MA

$18 - $21.25/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Animal Care TechnicianLaunch Your Career in Biotechnology & Research

Are you passionate about working with animals and interested in building a long-term career within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or research industry?

We are seeking motivated, dependable, and detail-oriented individuals to join a growing team as an Animal Care Technician. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for candidates looking to gain hands-on experience in a highly regulated and science-driven environment that supports groundbreaking medical and scientific advancements.

We are open to candidates with a strong work ethic, a genuine interest in animal care, and a desire to grow professionally within the life sciences industry.


Position Overview

As an Animal Care Technician, you will play an important role in the daily care and well-being of research animals while ensuring strict animal welfare and biosecurity standards are maintained.

You will work in a fast-paced environment where attention to detail, consistency, and compassion are critical. This role offers valuable exposure to the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries and can serve as a strong foundation for future careers in research, laboratory operations, animal sciences, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical development.


Key Responsibilities
  • Provide daily care and husbandry for research animals.
  • Support breeding, colony maintenance, and animal monitoring activities.
  • Observe animal health, behavior, and physical characteristics and report concerns appropriately.
  • Ensure strict compliance with animal welfare standards and biosecurity procedures.
  • Maintain accurate records using tablet-based systems.
  • Support scheduling and coordination activities related to animal colonies and customer requests.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and compliant animal care areas.
  • Follow established procedures and protocols to ensure a high standard of animal care.
  • Work closely with team members to support operational goals and animal welfare initiatives.

What We're Looking ForRequired Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum of 6 months of work experience in any professional setting.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Reliable attendance and punctuality.
  • Ability to follow procedures and work independently.
  • Comfortable using tablet computers and technology.
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn.

Work Schedule
  • First Shift
  • Monday through Thursday: 6:00 AM – 3:30 PM
  • Shorter shift on Fridays
  • Some flexibility with start times

Why This Opportunity?
  • Excellent entry point into the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
  • Hands-on experience working in a regulated research environment.
  • Opportunity to develop transferable skills in compliance, documentation, animal welfare, and laboratory operations.
  • Career growth opportunities within research, biotech, pharmaceutical manufacturing, laboratory operations, and animal sciences.
  • Join a team that contributes to scientific advancements and the development of life-changing therapies.
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Wilmington, MA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $18.00 - $21.25/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 Wilmington,MA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 21, 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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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