What does an Animal Behaviorist do?
An Animal Behaviorist is a professional who studies and analyses the behaviour of animals in a wide range of settings. They use this knowledge to develop strategies for improving animal welfare, preventing and managing problem behaviours, and enhancing the relationships between animals and their human caregivers. Animal Behaviorists typically work with a variety of species including dogs, cats, horses, birds and zoo animals. They may be involved in training animals for specific tasks or assisting in the rehabilitation and care of animals that have been abused or neglected. They may also provide advice to pet owners on how to train and manage their animals, and work with veterinary professionals to ensure that animals receive the best possible care.
Our Animal Behaviorist job description includes the Animal Behaviorist responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.
Animal Behaviorist Example
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If you need an example job description for an Animal Behaviorist download the one below, alternatively we have many other Science job description samples and a job description library with over 3000 job descriptions templates that you can download for free.
What does an Animal Behaviorist do?
An animal behaviourist works to understand and modify animal behaviour, using scientific methods. They will use a variety of techniques to observe, assess and analyse the behaviour of animals, both in the wild and in captivity. They work with a range of animals, including zoo animals, companion animals, farm animals and wildlife. Their aim is to improve animal welfare, prevent problem behaviour and enrich the lives of animals. They may also provide advice to pet owners, and work with veterinarians, trainers and other animal professionals. They may also undertake research and teaching, and may work in a range of settings, including universities, research centres, wildlife parks, animal sanctuaries and private animal welfare organisations.
Animal Behaviorist Role Purpose
The purpose of an animal behaviourist is to study the behaviour of animals in order to better understand them and their needs. This could include researching the effects of environmental factors on their behaviour and developing strategies to help improve the welfare of animals. Animal behaviourists also provide advice and support to pet owners, veterinarians and other professionals who work with animals. They may also work in animal rescue centres, sanctuaries and other animal care facilities, helping to rehabilitate and rehome animals.
Animal Behaviorist Role
An Animal Behaviourist is a professional who specialises in the study of animal behaviour and helps to diagnose and treat behavioural problems in domestic and wild animals. They work with a range of species, from cats and dogs to horses and elephants, investigating the causes of any behavioural issues and then developing strategies to help animals overcome them. Animal Behaviourists may also teach pet owners how to better understand and communicate with their animals.
Animal Behaviorist Duties
- Observe animal behaviour and analyse the results
- Carry out research into animal behaviour and psychology
- Develop new ways of understanding animal behaviour
- Prepare and present reports on research findings
- Keep up-to-date with developments in the field of animal behaviour
- Advise on animal behaviour and training issues
Animal Behaviorist Requirements
- A degree in animal behavior, psychology, or a related field
- Knowledge of animal behavior and welfare
- Experience working with animals
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to think critically and develop new ways of understanding animal behavior
Animal Behaviorist Skills
- Knowledge of animal behaviour
- Ability to identify behavioural problems
- Ability to develop solutions to behavioural problems
- Knowledge of animal welfare and ethical issues
Animal Behaviorist Personal Traits
- Empathy
- Patience
- Strong observational skills
- Excellent communication skills
How to write an Animal Behaviorist Job Advert
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How to write an Animal Behaviorist Job Description
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Job Description Advice - Guidance on How to Personalise an Animal Behaviorist Job Specification
The hiring process and recruiting new employees to fill your key roles requires a degree of personalisation if you are to attract the best employees in a competitive employment market. The right person for a crucial role or more senior roles will likely have other employers targeting them. As your job description will be the first point of contact, you need to nail your pitch and provide the best possible service.
Job Description Tips - Help on formatting an Animal Behaviorist Job Specification
When creating your bespoke description and advert, you should cover and promote these points:
Job title: This should accurately reflect the role and include keywords that top talent might be using to search for jobs.
Job duties: The day to day duties, such as administrative tasks, which vary depending on the company and inform the candidate if they can complete the role.
Technical skills: These are the hard skills required through training, such as proficiency with Microsoft Office.
Soft skills: These include the interpersonal skills and general abilities the right candidates will possess. For example, the competency to prioritise multiple tasks, handle customer queries and customer complaints, work alone, or build a good relationship with coworkers.
The company's culture: Highlighting your company culture and values ensures employees thrive and find outstanding job satisfaction. Candidates that are not the right fit won’t waste their time completing the application process, meaning you can focus on qualified individuals and hire in a more timely manner.
Career progression: Including the career path will entice candidates looking for career growth.
Training and development programs: Smaller companies may need employees with previous experience or provide educational assistance over internal training offered by larger organisations with more significant resources.
Employee benefits: Compensation and benefits often fail to appear in job ads and while you may want to hold your cards close to your chest, failing to include them is a mistake. Consider answering common questions, such as working hours and paid leave. Researching the average salary for the role in these early stages will ensure you don’t waste your interviewer’s and the candidate’s time.
Skill gaps: Your company may need to bring in new skills beyond those required to complete the key role and duties. Thinking on an organisational level can be beneficial when contemplating skills diversity.
Legal requirements: Ensure your job advert and description does not ask for inappropriate or discriminatory personal details, such as age, marital status, or religion.
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