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Snake Handling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Animal Control Officer

Norco, CA · On-site

$51K - $64K/yr

... use of animal handling and control equipment is required, including catch poles, control poles, humane traps, transport cages and kennels, leashes, muzzles, bite gloves, snake tongs, nets ...

Snake Handling information

What are some common safety protocols snake handlers follow when working with venomous species?

Snake handlers working with venomous species adhere to strict safety protocols to minimize risk. This often includes using specialized tools like hooks and tongs, wearing protective gloves and boots, and always working with a partner or under supervision. Regular training on emergency procedures, such as treating bites and having antivenom on hand, is standard practice. Additionally, handlers must ensure enclosures are secure and clearly labeled, and maintain meticulous records of each animal's behavior and health.

What is the difference between Snake Handling vs Reptile Keeper?

AspectSnake HandlingReptile Keeper
Required CertificationsHerpetology or safety training, sometimes specialized handling certificationsGeneral reptile care certifications, often less specialized
Work EnvironmentWildlife sanctuaries, snake shows, outdoor settingsZoological parks, pet stores, research facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in entertainment, education, or conservation involving snakesCare and maintenance of various reptiles, including snakes

Snake Handling and Reptile Keeper roles share overlapping skills in reptile care and safety. However, Snake Handling typically involves specialized training for working with venomous snakes in specific environments, while Reptile Keepers manage a broader range of reptiles in more controlled settings. Both roles are essential in education, conservation, and pet industries, but differ in scope and environment.

What is snake handling?

Snake handling is a specialized occupation that involves safely capturing, relocating, caring for, or studying snakes. People in this role may work in wildlife management, pest control, research, zoos, or as educators. Their responsibilities can include removing snakes from inhabited areas, conducting field surveys, or providing public demonstrations and safety training. Proper knowledge of snake behavior, species identification, and handling techniques is essential to ensure both human and animal safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a snake handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Snake Handler, you need extensive knowledge of herpetology, animal behavior, and proper handling techniques, often backed by specialized training or certifications in wildlife management. Familiarity with tools such as snake hooks, tongs, secure containers, and protective equipment is crucial for safe handling and transportation. Excellent observation skills, patience, and calmness under pressure are essential soft skills for preventing accidents and ensuring animal welfare. These abilities are vital for maintaining personal safety, protecting the animals, and educating the public or supporting conservation efforts.
What are popular job titles related to Snake Handling jobs in California? For Snake Handling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Snake Handling jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Snake Handling jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Snake Handling jobs? Cities in California with the most Snake Handling job openings:
Infographic showing various Snake Handling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, and 90% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Animal Control Officer

City of Norco

Norco, CA • On-site

$51K - $64K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description DEFINITIION Under general supervision, patrols streets and provides animal control and animal protection services for the City of Norco. Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.

TYPICAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Responding and impounding stray animals; investigates reports of animal abuse, nuisances and related code enforcement issues and takes appropriate corrective action; explains ordinances to public; issues citations for violations of state and City animal control laws and ordinances; prepares and files citations in court; appears and testifies in court; maintains and updates records and files. Provides daily care for animals housed at the animal shelter, including feeding, monitoring health and behavior, and maintaining clean and safe kennel environments. Assists the public with animal adoptions, licensing, and responsible pet care education.

Performs humane euthanasia and proper disposition of animals in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and professional standards. Monitors rodeos, dog shows, and other animal-related special events to ensure compliance with animal welfare and public safety regulations. Conducts livestock inspections, participates in community outreach and educational events to promote animal adoptions and responsible pet ownership.

Performs other related duties as assigned. CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This is a general employee position in the Animal Services Division of the Community Operations Department. This position performs a variety of animal welfare duties CONTACTS AND RELATIONSHIP This position has the majority of its interaction with the public, veterinarians, volunteers, and other City employees.

Typical Qualifications QUALIFICATION GUIDELINES Experience: Two (2) years of experience working with domestic animals, wildlife, and livestock in an animal shelter, veterinary clinic, animal control agency, agricultural setting, or similar environment. Experience should include animal handling, care, and control; feeding and sanitation; safe restraint and transport; and responding to animal-related calls for service. Experience working directly with animals in a professional setting is required.

Possession of, or ability to obtain, training in the proper use of animal handling and control equipment is required, including catch poles, control poles, humane traps, transport cages and kennels, leashes, muzzles, bite gloves, snake tongs, nets, tranquilizer or capture equipment (where authorized), and defensive safety equipment such as batons. Experience involving public contact, enforcement of regulations, and the handling of domestic and wild animals is highly desirable. Education: High School Diploma or equivalent supplemented by coursework or training in animal science, veterinary assisting, law enforcement, or a related field.

Must attend training in Animal Control, Advance Animal Control Investigation, Certified Animal Control Officer Training (CACO), First Aid, CPR, Large Animal Rescue, Euthanasia, and Citation/Report Writing within two years of employment date. Knowledge: Applicable federal, state, and local animal control laws, rules, and regulations; City codes and ordinances related to animal services and public safety. Principles and practices of domestic and wild animal behavior, control, capture, and humane handling techniques.

Methods and techniques for effective public relations, community outreach, education, and training. Basic investigative procedures, report writing, and enforcement practices related to animal control operations. Ability: Enforce animal control laws, regulations, and City ordinances with professionalism and sound judgment; safely and humanely capture, handle, and transport domestic and wild animals; assess animal behavior and respond appropriately in routine and emergency situations; communicate effectively with the public, including in stressful or sensitive situations; prepare clear and accurate reports and maintain records; work independently in the field while exercising discretion and decision-making; and establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with staff, law enforcement, and the community.

Certification Required: PC 832 Certification License Required: Valid California Driver's License, Supplemental Information EMERGENCY SERVICES: All City employees are required to perform assigned Emergency Service duties in the event of an emergency or disaster. Employees must complete the required FEMA courses within six months of employment. SELECTION PROCESS: Only those candidates who have the best combination of qualifications in relation to the requirements and duties of the position will continue in the selection process.

Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to participate in the process. Final appointments may be subject to a selection interview with the Department Director or designee and the remaining conditional steps in the hiring process. This position requires a conditional employment offer based on the successful completion of a drug and alcohol screening.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Norco is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability (mental and physical), sex, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), sex orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, or military and veteran status. The City is committed to making its programs, services and activities accessible to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodation to participate in this recruitment, please contact Human Resources prior to the filing deadline.

We will attempt to reasonably accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. BACKGROUND CHECK: All employment offers are conditional based on the successful completion of a background investigation, physical and drug and alcohol screening at city expense and conducted by a physician designated by the city. All information on the application is subject to investigation and verification.

Reference checks will be conducted by the City to include at least the following: (1) verification/reference from current and past employers, (2) fingerprinting and Department of Justice criminal background check, and (3) confirmation of necessary licenses, certificates, and/or diploma/degrees. Employees are enrolled in the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) government Employer Pull Notice Program. DRUG SCREENING: In accordance with the City's drug free workplace policy, all employment offers are conditional and based on successful completion of drug test.

Class A drivers are enrolled in the Department of Transportation (DOT) random drug testing program. E-VERIFY: The City of Norco is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an internet-based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States.

The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute a contract expressed or implied, and any provisions contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.