1

Manager Animal Behavior Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Kennel Attendant

Grain Valley, MO ยท On-site

$11 - $14.25/hr

Reporting changes in animal behavior, health or concerns to Vet or Hospital Manager * Maintaining animal records, such as weight, physical condition, treatments received, medications given, and food ...

Kennel Attendant

Kansas City, MO ยท On-site

$11.25 - $14.25/hr

Reporting changes in animal behavior, health or concerns to Vet or Hospital Manager * Maintaining animal records, such as weight, physical condition, treatments received, medications given, and food ...

Animal Care Technician

Columbia, MO ยท On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Recognize animal behavior, health status and report to appropriate channels. * Perform animal ... Capable of managing multiple conflicting priorities. * Must be self-directed, motivated, and have a ...

Provides objective reporting to management on animal behavior and health. * Travels to local sights to perform maintenance tasks and pick up supplies. * ALL OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED. EXPERIENCE ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Manager Animal Behavior information

What is a manager animal behavior?

Manager Animal Behavior positions are roles responsible for overseeing teams and programs that study, assess, and improve the behavior and welfare of animals, often in zoos, shelters, laboratories, or research facilities. These managers develop and implement animal behavior protocols, supervise animal behaviorists and trainers, and collaborate with veterinarians and other staff to ensure optimal animal care. They also analyze behavioral data, create enrichment plans, and may be involved in staff training and public education. The goal is to enhance animal well-being, support research, and sometimes improve adoption rates or conservation outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manager animal behavior?

To thrive as a Manager of Animal Behavior, you generally need a degree in animal behavior, zoology, or a related field, along with extensive experience working with animals and supervisory experience. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, data analysis software, and sometimes certification from organizations like the Animal Behavior Society are typical requirements. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively manage teams and collaborate with veterinarians, trainers, and researchers. These qualifications ensure the humane treatment of animals, effective team management, and the successful implementation of behavior modification programs.

What are some common challenges faced by a manager animal behavior, and how can they be addressed?

A Manager of Animal Behavior often faces challenges such as managing diverse animal temperaments, ensuring staff are properly trained in animal handling, and balancing animal welfare with organizational goals. Addressing these requires strong communication skills, the ability to develop and implement training programs for staff, and staying updated on the latest behavioral enrichment practices. Collaboration with veterinarians, animal care staff, and external experts is crucial to resolve behavioral issues effectively and ensure a safe, enriching environment for the animals.

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

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

Infographic showing various Manager Animal Behavior job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Animal Care Specialist - Elephant Team (Full Time)

Kansas City Zoo and Aquarium

Kansas City, MO โ€ข On-site

$17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

ANIMAL CARE SPECIALIST - ELEPHANT TEAM (FULL TIME)
DEPARTMENT
Animal Care
CLASSIFICATION
Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO
Animal Care Manager
DIRECT REPORTS
N/A
STARTING PAY
$17.50/Hour
POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Animal Care Specialist is responsible for performing routine work assignments involving the daily care and welfare of animals within their area. This position also performs daily maintenance of animal habitats and holding areas, as well as interacts with the public to provide information related to the Zoo & Aquarium's animal collection.
This position will work with the Elephant Team, which is responsible for the daily husbandry of African elephants.
POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Duties
Percentage
Performs daily animal husbandry activities, including:
  • Preparing diets and delivering animal feedings.
  • Administering medications and assisting with various animal health procedures.
  • Observing, logging, and reporting issues concerning animal behavior, health, and welfare.
  • Training animals for basic husbandry behaviors.
  • Creating and implementing various enrichment items/strategies.

40%
Completes daily maintenance of exhibits and holding areas, including:
  • Cleaning habitats, holding areas, and staff areas.
  • Performing minor repairs and improvements.
  • Reporting maintenance issues and potential safety hazards to appropriate manager.
  • Lawn and other horticultural maintenance within habitats.

40%
Maintains daily reports and other required records.
10%
Interacts with Zoo & Aquarium guests and the public, including:
  • Performing various animal chats and animal presentations, as well as assisting with special events related to assigned area.
  • Engaging with visitors to answer questions about the Zoo & Aquarium and animals.

10%
*This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. Additionally, specific duties and percentages may vary slightly between each Animal Care Team.
*All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  1. EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:
    1. Bachelor's degree in biology, animal science, zoology, or related field desired.
    2. Applicable experience can be substituted in place of formal education on a year-for-year basis for candidates not currently holding a degree.
  2. EXPERIENCE:
    1. Previous hands-on experience with the care and management of similar species is desired.
    2. Knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior, procedures for proper care, and training of exotic animals.
    3. Strong observational skills to recognize and evaluate conditions of animal health, diets, and behavior.
    4. Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office, required.
    5. Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions, including procedures for care and maintenance of animals, habitats, service and holding areas.
    6. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  3. OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
    1. Must have valid driver's license.
    2. Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.
    3. Must be able to lift 50 pounds and have sufficient mobility to ensure a safe work environment.
    4. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
    5. Must be able to manage stress, endure high risk situations when feeding, transferring, or restraining animals, and make immediate decisions concerning the safety of animals, staff, or the public.
    6. Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours, in all weather extremes.
    7. Must pass a background and drug screening.