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Snake Handling Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

TF Cornerstone

Engineer

Reston, VA · Remote

$41 - $43/hr

Cleaning air handling unit coils, drain pans, and interior surfaces as required. * Cleaning and ... Unstop and snake if needed sewer drain lines using mechanical drain cleaning equipment.

All JobsSnake Handling JobsSnake Handling Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Snake Handling information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$10

$18

$22

How much do snake handling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for snake handling in Silver Spring, MD is $18.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How do you become a snake handler?

To become a snake handler, individuals typically gain experience through apprenticeships or training with experienced handlers, learn about snake behavior and safety protocols, and may obtain certifications in venomous snake handling from relevant authorities. Knowledge of local laws and safety equipment is also essential for this specialized job.

What job categories do people searching Snake Handling jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Snake Handling jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

Snake Handling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Snake Handling job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,297 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Maintenance Mechanic

Washington, DC • On-site

Complete Building Services
Facilities Support Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Complete Building Servicesexternal

$30 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

About the Role

Job Description: The Maintenance Mechanic is responsible for the overall maintenance, repair, and operational efficiency of commercial facility systems. This versatile role requires a strong working knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, basic electrical, and general mechanical systems. The mechanic will perform preventative maintenance, diagnose complex issues across multiple trades, and ensure a safe, code-compliant, and comfortable environment for building occupants.

Location: Washington, DC

Pay Rate: $30-$35 per/hr. depending on experience. 

Core Responsibilities

  • HVAC Support & Repair: Perform routine inspections, filter changes, belt replacements, and system tuning on air handlers, condensers, chillers, and boilers. Troubleshoot mechanical malfunctions and repair/replace components like compressors, motors, and thermostats.
  • Plumbing Maintenance: Maintain and repair commercial plumbing systems, including sinks, toilets, and associated piping. Identify leaks or clogs and perform necessary repairs using Pro-Press, PVC, copper, and cast-iron methods. Operate drain cleaning equipment (e.g., K-50 snake) and plumbing cameras for accurate diagnostics.
  • Electrical & Mechanical Troubleshooting: Read wiring diagrams and utilize multimeters to test voltage, amperage, and continuity. Troubleshoot basic electrical circuits and replace faulty mechanical parts.
  • Preventative Maintenance: Conduct daily facility rounds and system testing to ensure peak energy efficiency and prevent equipment failure. Test pipe or tubing joints for leaks.
  • Building Automation: Interact with Building Management Systems (BMS/BAS) to monitor the building climate remotely and respond to alarms.
  • Documentation & Compliance: Maintain detailed logs of all work orders performed, parts used, and system performance metrics. Adhere strictly to OSHA safety standards, local building codes, and EPA environmental regulations.
You Should Have

Minimum Skill Set Requirements To be successful in this role, a candidate must possess a blend of cross-discipline technical expertise, physical stamina, and analytical thinking.

  • Technical Proficiency
    • Multi-Trade Knowledge: Broad understanding of commercial plumbing, basic electrical systems, and the refrigeration cycle.
    • BMS/BAS Familiarity: Experience using digital control systems to monitor and adjust building environments.
    • Blueprint Reading: Ability to read and interpret technical specifications, blueprints, and wiring diagrams.
  • Tools & Equipment
    • Proficiency with basic plumbing and HVAC diagnostic tools, including multimeters, manifold gauges, and leak detectors.
    • Hands-on experience with drain cleaning equipment (snakes and cameras) and pipe repair methods.
    • Experience with brazing, soldering, and threading pipe is highly preferred.
  • Compliance & Safety
    • OSHA Safety Standards: Strict adherence to Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures, confined space entry, and fall protection protocols.
    • EPA Guidelines: Proper handling and disposal of refrigerants in accordance with federal law.
  • Soft Skills & Physical Demands
    • Problem-Solving: Ability to rapidly diagnose complex issues across different utility systems under pressure.
    • Physical Stamina: Capacity to lift 50+ lbs, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces, mechanical rooms, or extreme weather conditions.

    Education, Experience & Certifications

    • High School Diploma or GED required (completion of an apprenticeship program or technical degree preferred).
    • 3 to 5+ years of experience in facility maintenance, commercial plumbing, or commercial HVAC.
    • Preferred: EPA Section 608 Certification (Universal CFC).
    • Preferred: HVAC or Journeyman License.
    • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record.

    EOE, including disability/veterans

    Why You'll Love Working With Us

    Overview

    Complete Building Services, (CBS) a building operations/facilities maintenance company, is currently seeking a Maintenance Mechanic in Washington. CBS is a division of The Donohoe Companies, Inc. - Washington's oldest real estate company. The Maintenance Mechanic will perform preventative maintenance of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing to assigned equipment.

    Employment Type: FULL_TIME

    Apply