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Entry Level Animal Behavior Jobs in Springfield, OH

... Entry level class in animal care control occupation under close supervision requiring some ... Performs routine and thorough documentation of care provided, behavioral observations, health ...

Animal Care Provider / Entry

Dayton, OH · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... Entry level class in animal care control occupation under close supervision requiring some ... Performs routine and thorough documentation of care provided, behavioral observations, health ...

Entry Level Animal Behavior information

See Springfield, OH salary details

$11

$18

$24

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

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level animal behavior in Springfield, OH is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $20.58 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 job categories do people searching Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in Springfield, OH look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs in Springfield, OH are:

What cities near Springfield, OH are hiring for Entry Level Animal Behavior jobs?

Cities near Springfield, OH with the most Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Animal Behavior job openings in Springfield, OH as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,463 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Animal Care Provider / Entry

Montgomery County

Dayton, OH • On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Overview Ensures the health and safety of dogs in Animal Resource Center's care through problem solving, prevention, and disease mitigation strategies to keep pets and people safe. Entry level class in animal care control occupation under close supervision requiring some knowledge of custodial care applicable to animals in order to safely care for sheltered animals. Understands and interprets animal body language; demonstrates safe animal handling and restraint techniques.

Performs routine and thorough documentation of care provided, behavioral observations, health concerns, and other related care. Summary of Job Duties Provides care for sheltered animals (e.g., feeds, waters, cleans, enriches, and exercises animals), and cleans and disinfects cages, floors, and related kennel areas in accordance with established practices; selects animals for adoption, assists veterinarians with examinations, administers vaccines and medications to animals as required. Performs euthanasia of injured, sick, and unadoptable animals by established approved methods

Prepares carcasses for disposal and disposes of animal remains according to state health regulations and established practices. Escorts individuals through kennels to identify lost dogs, conducts pre-adoption interviews to ensure responsible placements, provides information to individuals (e.g., prices, conditions of adoption and effective care, state and local laws, animal behavior management, pet selection, etc.). Remains empathetic and non-judgmental in all interactions with community members, uses de-escalation techniques and persuasive communication to assist clients

Demonstrates familiarity with pet retention, rehoming, behavioral training, veterinary care, and other resources to connect pets in need. Applies judgement to make sound and safe decisions. Gathers information, assesses the situation, and provides the appropriate service(s).

Requires working knowledge of Ohio law regarding domestic animals, dog licensing, and dog control. Enters and retrieves information on computer (e.g., animal records), assists in general office operations (e.g., answers phone, provides information to public regarding licensing and dog control requirements), and operates portable two-way radio and uses various equipment to locate information (e.g., microfiche, computer terminal). (Performs Related Duties as Required) Minimum Qualifications and Requirements ANIMAL CARE PROVIDER - ENTRY $18.06 - $22.83 Hourly $37,564.80 - $47, 486.40 Annually Completion of high school diploma; ability to read and write common vocabulary; OR alternative, equivalent evidence of the Minimum Class Requirements

Driving Requirement: Must maintain a current valid United States driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Training and Development: Must have Certified Euthanasia Technician (CET) certification, and ASP Baton certification within six (6) months of hire date. Must maintain certification and licensure.

ANIMAL CARE PROVIDER $19.17 - $24.45 Hourly $39,873.60 - $50,856.00 Annually Completion of high school diploma; ability to read and write common vocabulary; or alternative, equivalent evidence of the Minimum Class Requirements, and one (1) year Animal Care Provider-Entry experience. Driving Requirement: Must maintain a current valid United States driver's license with an acceptable driving record. Training and Development: Must obtain Certified Euthanasia Technician (CET) certification, ASP Baton certification and Notary Public license within six (6) months of hire date

Must maintain certification and licensure.