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Pet Psychologist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Maxim Healthcare Services

Behavior Therapist

Menifee, CA

$21 - $26/hr

Completion of college coursework in one of the following programs: psychology, education, social ... Pet Insurance and Legal Benefits Lifestyle Benefits: Paid Time Off, Employee Discount Program ...

Maxim Healthcare Services

ABA Therapist

Lake Elsinore, CA

$18.25 - $24/hr

Completion of college coursework in one of the following programs: psychology, education, social ... Pet Insurance and Legal Benefits Lifestyle Benefits: Paid Time Off, Employee Discount Program ...

Maxim Healthcare Services

ABA Specialist

Anaheim, CA

$23 - $28/hr

Completion of college ? coursework in one of the following programs: psychology, education, social ... Pet Insurance and Legal Benefits Lifestyle Benefits: Paid Time Off, Employee Discount Program ...

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All JobsPet Psychologist JobsPet Psychologist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Pet Psychologist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11.5K

$96.8K

$415.7K

How much do pet psychologist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for pet psychologist in Riverside, CA is $96,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a pet psychologist?

A pet psychologist, also known as an animal behaviorist, is a professional who studies and addresses behavioral issues in animals, primarily pets like dogs and cats. They assess pets' actions, emotions, and interactions with their environment or owners to identify the causes of behavioral problems such as aggression, anxiety, or destructive behaviors. Pet psychologists use science-based techniques to modify unwanted behaviors and help improve the relationship between pets and their owners. They may work in private practice, animal shelters, or collaborate with veterinarians to provide comprehensive care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a pet psychologist?

To thrive as a Pet Psychologist, you need expertise in animal behavior, psychology, and welfare, often supported by a degree in animal behavior, psychology, or veterinary science. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, animal training techniques, and sometimes certification from recognized organizations like the Animal Behavior Society is typical. Strong observation skills, patience, and effective communication with both animals and pet owners are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate behavioral assessments and tailored interventions, leading to improved animal well-being and strengthened human-animal relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by pet psychologists when working with animals and their owners?

Pet psychologists often encounter challenges such as building trust with both the animal and their owner, as well as effectively interpreting non-verbal cues and behaviors. Another common hurdle is ensuring consistent follow-through on behavioral modification plans at home, as owner involvement is crucial for success. Additionally, pet psychologists must adapt their techniques to suit a wide variety of species and temperaments, requiring patience and strong communication skills to educate and support pet owners throughout the process.

What is the difference between Pet Psychologist vs Animal Behaviorist?

AspectPet PsychologistAnimal Behaviorist
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in psychology, animal behavior, or related field; often includes certification in animal behaviorUsually holds advanced degrees in animal behavior, zoology, or psychology; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks with pet owners, veterinary clinics, or animal shelters to address behavioral issuesWorks in research, zoos, or academic settings, studying animal behavior or consulting on behavioral problems
Industry UsageCommonly found in pet care, veterinary practices, and animal rescue organizationsPrimarily in research institutions, zoos, or academic environments

While both Pet Psychologists and Animal Behaviorists work to improve animal well-being, Pet Psychologists focus on understanding and modifying pet behavior through psychological methods, often working directly with pet owners. Animal Behaviorists tend to conduct research or work in academic settings, studying broader animal behavior patterns. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments, but their primary focus and application differ.

How do you become a pet psychologist?

To become a pet psychologist, one typically needs a bachelor's degree in psychology, animal behavior, or a related field, followed by a master's or doctoral degree specializing in animal behavior or veterinary science. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering with animals and obtaining relevant certifications can also enhance qualifications for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Pet Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Pet Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Pet Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Pet Psychologist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Pet Psychologist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Pet Psychologist job openings:

Pet Psychologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pet Psychologist job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,829 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Center Manager in Orange County

AltaMed Health Services

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$111K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

AltaMed rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 896 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Grow Healthy

If you are as passionate about helping those in need as you are about growing your career, consider AltaMed. At AltaMed, your passion for helping others isn't just welcomed - it's nurtured, celebrated, and promoted, allowing you to grow while making a meaningful difference. We don't just serve our communities; we are an integral part of them. By raising the expectations of what a community clinic can deliver, we demonstrate our belief that quality care is for everyone. Our commitment to providing exceptional care, despite any challenges, goes beyond just a job; it's a calling that drives us forward every day.

Job Overview

The Center Manager is responsible for the overall operations of the PACE Center. Works with key management personnel in achieving services according to licensing standards and/or regulatory agency standards, which apply to PACE and Adult Day Healthcare Center (ADHC) services.

Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in social work, Nursing, Psychology, or Gerontology required. Master's degree preferred.
  • Experience in working with Title XXII (licensing regulations) and the elderly population.
  • Experience working collaboratively with the following disciplines: nursing, social work, psychology, recreation, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, dietetics, gerontology.
  • Minimum of three years' experience in a supervisor or management position in healthcare or a related field.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish/Mandarin/Cantonese, depending on location, preferred.

Compensation

$111,932.03 - $139,915.04 annually

Compensation Disclaimer

Actual salary offers are considered by various factors, including budget, experience, skills, education, licensure and certifications, and other business considerations. The range is subject to change. AltaMed is committed to ensuring a fair and competitive compensation package that reflects the candidate's value and the role's strategic importance within the organization. This role may also qualify for discretionary bonuses or incentives.

Benefits & Career Development

  • Medical, Dental and Vision insurance
  • 403(b) Retirement savings plans with employer matching contributions
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Commuter Flexible Spending
  • Career Advancement & Development opportunities
  • Paid Time Off & Holidays
  • Paid CME Days
  • Malpractice insurance and tail coverage
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Corporate Employee Discounts
  • Employee Referral Bonus Program
  • Pet Care Insurance

Job Advertisement & Application Compliance Statement

AltaMed Health Services Corp. will consider qualified applicants with criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and City of Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if AltaMed Health Service Corp. is concerned about a conviction directly related to the job, you will be given a chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report.

What AltaMed employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About AltaMed Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AltaMed Health Services, based in Los Angeles, CA, US, is a leading provider in the healthcare industry. Founded in 1969 as the East LA Barrio Free Clinic, the organization provides high-quality health and human services to the underserved and uninsured communities in Southern California. AltaMed offers a broad range of services including medical care, senior care, dental services, HIV care, pharmacy services, and health education. The company's mission is to eliminate disparities in healthcare access and outcomes by providing superior quality health and human services through an integrated world-class delivery system. AltaMed has also made notable achievements, including becoming the nation's largest federally qualified community health center (FQHC) and being named a leader in healthcare equality by the Human Rights Campaign for several consecutive years.

Industry

Fitness and sports centers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1969

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