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Senior Animal Behavior Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

The Walt Disney Company

Aquarist

Lake Buena Vista, FL · On-site

$51K - $68K/yr

... guidance of Senior Animal Care Specialists. An Aquarist has mastered the scope of animal care ... Work with their leader to establish and actively pursue a list of developmental behaviors that ...

UAB

ANIMAL LABORATORY SPECIALIST I

Tampa, FL

$15.50 - $25.20/hr

Basic understanding of species-specific behavior. Provides ferrets with exercise/playtime. Rotates ... Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX ...

UAB

ANIMAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN I

Tampa, FL · On-site

$15 - $22.75/hr

... abnormal behavior. 3. Assists in routine health checks and treatment administration. 4. Safely ... Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX ...

UAB

ANIMAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN I

Tampa, FL

$15 - $24.40/hr

Clinical care experience that allows for effective assessment of injury, illness, or behavioral ... Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX ...

UAB

RESEARCH SCIENTIST

Tampa, FL · On-site

... animal behavioral assays. This position will oversee projects within the laboratory and assume ... Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX ...

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Senior Animal Behavior information

What does a senior animal behaviorist do?

A Senior Animal Behaviorist studies animal behavior to understand how animals interact with their environment, other animals, and humans. They may work in research, zoos, animal shelters, or as consultants, developing programs to modify problematic behaviors or improve animal welfare. In a senior role, they often lead teams, design experiments, and provide expert advice on animal training and enrichment. Their work helps improve animal care and supports conservation efforts. Senior Animal Behaviorists typically have advanced degrees and extensive experience in animal behavior science.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior animal behaviorist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Animal Behaviorist, you need advanced knowledge of animal behavior science, a relevant degree (such as in animal behavior, zoology, or psychology), and substantial hands-on experience with animal assessment and training. Familiarity with behavioral assessment tools, data analysis software, and certifications like CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist) or ACAAB are often required. Strong observational skills, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with both animals and humans set outstanding professionals apart. These skills are vital for accurately diagnosing behavioral issues, developing effective intervention plans, and ensuring the well-being of animals in various settings.

What are some common challenges senior animal behaviorists face when working with animals in shelters or rescue environments?

Senior Animal Behaviorists in shelters often encounter animals with complex behavioral issues stemming from stress, trauma, or lack of socialization. Addressing these challenges requires patience, creative problem-solving, and collaboration with veterinary staff and caretakers to develop individualized behavior modification plans. Additionally, balancing the needs of multiple animals and limited resources can be demanding, but it offers valuable experience in prioritizing care and advocating for animal welfare. Effective communication with adopters and staff is also crucial to ensure successful long-term outcomes for the animals.

What is the difference between Senior Animal Behavior vs Animal Behaviorist?

AspectSenior Animal BehaviorAnimal Behaviorist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees (Master's/PhD), certifications in animal behaviorTypically a degree in animal science, psychology, or related field; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, animal shelters, zoos, private consultingAnimal shelters, zoos, research facilities, private practice
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, specialized consulting firmsAnimal care facilities, zoos, private clients
Common Search & ComparisonSenior Animal Behavior vs Animal Behaviorist

Senior Animal Behavior professionals often have advanced education and oversee complex projects, while Animal Behaviorists focus on applying behavioral science to improve animal welfare and training. Both roles require a strong understanding of animal behavior, but Senior Animal Behavior roles typically involve leadership and research responsibilities, whereas Animal Behaviorists are more client-facing and hands-on.

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

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

What cities in Florida are hiring for Senior Animal Behavior jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Senior Animal Behavior job openings:

Senior Animal Behavior jobs near you

Animal Care - Team Leads & Senior Associates

Love Energy Savings

Naples, FL • On-site

$19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

At Patty Baker Humane Society Naples, every day is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of homeless animals. We're seeking experienced animal care professionals who are passionate about animal welfare, thrive in a fast‑paced environment, and are ready to take on leadership responsibilities while remaining actively involved in the daily care of our shelter animals.

Depending on your experience and qualifications, candidates may be considered for either our Animal Care Team Lead or Senior Animal Care Associate position.

Both roles are hands‑on leadership positions that combine exceptional animal care with team guidance, operational support, and a commitment to providing every animal with compassionate, fear‑free care.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF AN ANIMAL CARE ASSOCIATE

To get a better idea of the morning Animal Care routine, please watch this video!

Schedule

Full time, Five days per week, 8am - 5pm, 7am - 4pm, or 9am - 6pm. Candidates must be willing to work all shift types, weekends and holidays.

What We Offer
  • Senior Associate: pay starts at $18/hr.
  • Team Lead: pay starts at $19/hr
  • Paid weekly.
  • Paid time off and Holiday Pay
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Retirement plan available, matching funds after 1 year
  • Significant discounts on veterinary services
  • Employee pet adoption benefits
What You’ll Do
  • Lead and provide guidance, direction, and support to Animal Care Associates throughout the day.
  • Help ensure daily animal care tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and according to shelter protocols.
  • Serve as a role model by demonstrating excellent animal handling, cleaning, enrichment, and customer service practices.
  • Assist with onboarding and training new staff and volunteers.
  • Team Lead candidates will have ongoing supervisory responsibilities; Senior Animal Care Associates will regularly serve as Shift Lead when designated, directing daily operations and team activities.
Provide Outstanding Animal Care
  • Feed, water, and provide daily husbandry for dogs, cats, and occasionally small animals.
  • Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, cat rooms, yards, and other animal spaces.
  • Maintain clean, organized animal care areas, laundry, dishes, and supplies.
  • Monitor animal health and report concerns promptly.
  • Administer medications and assist with medical treatments as directed.
  • Transport animals to and from medical procedures and surgeries.
Support Animal Wellness & Enrichment
  • Provide daily enrichment and socialization tailored to each animal's individual needs.
  • Participate in dog playgroups, cat socialization, walks, training sessions, and behavioral enrichment.
  • Observe animal behavior and document changes or concerns.
Shelter Operations & Customer Service
  • Assist adopters and visitors with animal meet-and-greets.
  • Help maintain accurate animal records and kennel signage.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Minimum six months of professional animal care experience in a shelter, veterinary clinic, kennel, rescue, or similar environment.
  • Ability to safely handle dogs and cats of varying temperaments.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physically demanding work throughout the day.
  • Basic computer proficiency.
  • Reliable transportation.
  • Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.
  • Consistent attendance and dependability.

Preferred Qualifications

  • One or more years of animal care experience.
  • Leadership, supervisory, mentoring, or shift leadership experience.
  • Strong understanding of dog and cat behavior and body language.
  • Experience facilitating dog playgroups or cat socialization.
  • Experience training staff or volunteers.
  • College coursework in animal science or a related field is a plus.
Application Instructions
  • Apply online at https://pbhsnaples.org/careers
  • All communication with candidates will be over email and/or text - check your spam folder!
  • If you have technical issues or questions, please email hr@pbhsnaples.org
  • No phone calls or walk-ins please
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