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

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 Sep 8, 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 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 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.

$17 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Locations: Sudbury, Dover, Wellesley, Natick, Wayland, Walpole, Sherborn, Needham, and Norwood, MA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Schedule: Monday–Friday | 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Pay: $17–$25 per hour, depending on driving experience

Do you love dogs, pets, and spending time outdoors? Noble Hearts HR Consulting & Staffing is hiring Dog Playgroup Supervisors/Drivers on behalf of our client.

This is an entry-level opportunity with paid, on-the-job training. You will drive a company vehicle to pick up dogs from their homes, transport them safely to private dog parks, and supervise their outdoor playgroups.

What You'll Do
  • Safely pick up and transport dogs in a company vehicle.
  • Supervise outdoor dog playgroups.
  • Monitor dog behavior and maintain a safe environment.
  • Provide dependable, caring service to pets and their owners.
  • Follow established driving, safety, and animal-care procedures.
What We're Looking For
  • Must genuinely enjoy working with dogs and other pets.
  • Must be comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Candidates with at least two years of professional driving experience are encouraged to apply.
  • Candidates without professional driving experience must have at least four years of clean driving history.
  • Dependable, responsible, safety-conscious, and ready to learn.
  • No previous dog-care experience is required; training is provided.

If you are looking for a full-time opportunity where you can work outdoors, stay active, and spend your day with dogs, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today and join the pack!

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