Starting a career as an animal behaviorist is an exciting venture for those who have a passion for understanding and working with animals. It's a profession that requires not only a deep love for animals but also a scientific understanding of their behavior. The field of animal behavior involves studying the ways animals interact with each other, their environments, and sometimes humans. As an emerging animal behaviorist, you might be asking yourself what steps you need to take to land your very first job in this niche but rewarding field. Here are some tips and strategies that could be your guideposts on the path to a successful career.

Understanding the Profession

Before you start applying for jobs, it's critical to have a comprehensive understanding of what being an animal behaviorist entails. Animal behaviorists are experts in the biology, psychology, and ecology of animal behavior. They often work in a variety of settings, including zoos, aquariums, wildlife preserves, universities, and in private practice. The work may involve implementing behavioral modification techniques, conducting research, advising on animal welfare, and educating the public about animal behavior.

Educational Qualification

Typically, a career in animal behavior requires at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as biology, zoology, psychology, or animal science. However, many positions, especially those in research or academic settings, require advanced degrees (master's or doctorate). While pursuing your degrees, ensure that you take courses that are directly related to animal behavior, such as ethology, animal learning, and neurobiology to build a strong foundation of knowledge.

Gain Experience

Hands-on experience is incredibly valuable in the animal behavior field. Volunteer or intern at local animal shelters, rescue organizations, zoos, or research labs to gain practical skills and insight into the day-to-day tasks of professional behaviorists. This will not only bolster your resume but also provide networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

Networking and Professional Organizations

Connecting with other professionals is crucial in the relatively small field of animal behavior. Join organizations such as the Animal Behavior Society (ABS) or the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). These groups offer resources, conferences, and certification programs that can enhance your profile and connect you with potential employers.

Certification and Specialization

Consider obtaining certification from a recognized body, like the ABS Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI). These credentials demonstrate a level of expertise and commitment to the field. Additionally, you may choose to specialize in a particular area of animal behavior, such as companion animal behavior, wildlife behavior, or animal training, and seek certifications specific to your area of interest.

Develop a Strong Personal Brand

Build a professional online presence with a comprehensive LinkedIn profile, a personal website, or a blog where you can share your insights and experiences related to animal behavior. Showcasing your expertise online can make you more attractive to potential employers and clients.

Prepare a Tailored Resume and Cover Letter

When applying for positions, tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight the experience and skills that are most relevant to the job description. Use industry-specific language and clearly articulate how your academic background, practical experience, and any research align with the position.

Stay Updated with Recent Advances

The field of animal behavior is continuously evolving with new research and methodologies. Stay current by reading journals, attending workshops, and participating in continuing education opportunities. This knowledge showcases your ability to stay ahead of the curve and can be particularly appealing to employers.

Practice Interview Skills

Job interviews can be daunting, especially for your first professional position. Practice common interview questions, especially those that are likely to come up in the animal behavior field. Be prepared to discuss your experiences, your approach to behavioral challenges, and case studies that may demonstrate your skills.

Be Resilient and Adapt

Breaking into the animal behavior field might require time and persistence. You might have to apply to many positions before landing the right one. It's important to be resilient and adaptable to different types of roles and opportunities that come your way.

Conclusion

Landing your first job as an animal behaviorist is a thrilling opportunity to start doing work that you are passionate about. By acquiring the right education, gaining hands-on experience, networking with professionals, and showcasing your dedication and expertise, you'll be well on your way to a successful career. Always remember, each step you take should be aligned with your ultimate goal: to understand and improve the lives of animals through your knowledge of their behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to become an animal behaviorist?

To become an animal behaviorist, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, zoology, psychology, or animal science. Advanced degrees like a master's or doctorate may be required for certain positions, especially in research or academia.

How can I gain practical experience in animal behavior?

Volunteering or interning at local animal shelters, rescue organizations, zoos, or research labs can provide valuable hands-on experience in the field of animal behavior. These opportunities not only enhance your skills but also offer networking prospects.

Are certifications important in the field of animal behavior?

Certifications from recognized bodies like the ABS Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB) or the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) can demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field. Specializing in a specific area of animal behavior and obtaining relevant certifications can also be beneficial.

How can networking help in advancing a career in animal behavior?

Networking with professionals in the field through organizations like the Animal Behavior Society (ABS) or the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) can open up opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and potential job placements.

What are some tips for preparing a strong job application in animal behavior?

Tailoring your resume and cover letter to emphasize relevant experience and skills, showcasing a professional online presence, and staying updated with industry advancements are key components of a strong job application in animal behavior.

How can I stay informed about the latest trends and research in animal behavior?

Keeping up-to-date with recent advances in animal behavior can be done by regularly reading journals, attending workshops, and engaging in continuing education opportunities. This continuous learning demonstrates a proactive approach to professional development.

What are some common challenges faced by aspiring animal behaviorists?

Aspiring animal behaviorists may encounter challenges such as fierce competition for entry-level positions, the need for continuous learning and skill development, and the requirement for resilience and perseverance in pursuing their career goals.

How important is practical experience compared to academic qualifications in the field of animal behavior?

While academic qualifications are essential for establishing a foundational knowledge base, practical experience through volunteering, internships, or hands-on work can significantly enhance a candidate's credibility and employability in the field of animal behavior.

Further Resources

For those aspiring to embark on a career in animal behavior, here are some valuable resources to expand your knowledge, enhance your skills, and stay updated in this dynamic field:

1. Books:
   • "Animal Behavior: An Evolutionary Approach" by John Alcock - A foundational text on animal behavior that covers evolutionary theory and scientific methods in the field.
   • "Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know" by Alexandra Horowitz - A fascinating exploration of the cognitive abilities and sensory experiences of dogs.
2. Online Courses:
   • Coursera offers courses like "Animal Behavior and Welfare" and "Dog Emotion and Cognition" that provide in-depth insights into animal behavior principles.
   • Udemy features courses on "Applied Animal Behavior and Welfare" and "Animal Psychology" for practical learning.
3. Professional Organizations:
   • Animal Behavior Society (ABS): Joining ABS provides access to conferences, journals, and networking opportunities within the animal behavior community.
   • International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC): IAABC offers certification programs and resources for those interested in consulting on animal behavior.
4. Conferences and Workshops:
   • Attend events like the ABS Annual Conference and IAABC Virtual Summit to stay updated on the latest research and trends in animal behavior science.
5. Certification Programs:
   • Pursue certifications such as CAAB (Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist) from ABS or Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC) from IAABC to validate your expertise.
6. Online Platforms:
   • Utilize websites like ResearchGate and ScienceDirect to access academic papers and studies on animal behavior research.
7. Podcasts and Blogs:
   • Listen to podcasts like "The Animal Behavior Podcast" or follow blogs by renowned animal behaviorists to stay engaged with industry discussions and insights.
8. Volunteer Opportunities:
   • Explore volunteering options at local animal shelters, wildlife rehabilitation centers, or research facilities to gain hands-on experience and make a positive impact.
9. Social Media Groups:
   • Join Facebook groups or LinkedIn communities focused on animal behavior to connect with professionals, share knowledge, and explore job opportunities.
10. Mentorship Programs:

• Seek mentorship from experienced animal behaviorists or researchers to guide you through your career development and offer valuable advice.

With these resources at your disposal, you can enrich your understanding of animal behavior, refine your skills, and progress towards a successful and fulfilling career in the field.