How to Be Shark Handler - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

The effects of shark handlers on shark populations have been widely studied. Their presence has been linked to increased protection of shark populations, as well as increased tourism and economic activity in the areas where sharks are present. the presence of shark handlers has been found to reduce the number of interactions between sharks and humans, thus reducing human-shark conflicts.

As a result, these interactions have been found to lead to greater diversity of species and healthier marine habitats, as well as a decrease in the number of shark attacks. the presence of shark handlers is necessary to maintain healthy, diverse shark populations and their ecosystems.

Steps How to Become

1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Marine Science or A Related Field. The first step to becoming a shark handler is to earn a bachelor's degree in marine science or a related field, such as biology, zoology, or ecology. This type of degree will provide a strong foundation in the scientific knowledge necessary to properly care for and interact with sharks.
2. Complete a Shark-Handling Course. It is recommended that aspiring shark handlers complete an accredited shark-handling course that includes classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Courses such as these can be found at universities, aquariums, and other organizations.
3. Join a Professional Organization. Becoming a member of a professional organization such as the American Elasmobranch Society (AES) is another way to ensure that one is up-to-date on the latest shark-handling techniques and industry standards.
4. Acquire Hands-On Experience. Working with experienced shark handlers at an aquarium or other facility is an important step in gaining the experience necessary to become a successful shark handler.
5. Obtain Certification. Depending on the state or country in which one wishes to become a shark handler, certification may be required. Certification can be obtained through the AES or other organizations, and is typically valid for three years.

Maintaining qualifications and staying up to date as a Shark Handler is an important part of the job. To do this, it is essential to participate in continued education courses, stay informed of any new protocols or regulations, and develop a good understanding of shark behavior in order to properly handle them. Not only does this help to keep Shark Handlers qualified and prepared, but it also ensures the safety of both the sharks and the handlers. Furthermore, when Shark Handlers are knowledgeable and properly trained, it allows them to better provide the necessary care for the sharks and the marine environment, which helps to promote animal welfare and ocean conservation.

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Job Description

1. Maintain a safe and secure working environment for the public and staff around shark environments.
2. Monitor shark behavior and respond to any changes in the environment or animal behavior.
3. Assist with the capture and transfer of sharks, if necessary.
4. Provide routine medical care and health checks for sharks.
5. Ensure all necessary safety protocols are followed when handling sharks.
6. Monitor water quality and environmental conditions in shark habitats.
7. Educate the public on shark conservation and safety around shark habitats.
8. Work closely with other staff members to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of sharks.
9. Ensure that all regulations and laws related to shark handling are followed.
10. Participate in research projects to further our understanding of shark species.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of shark anatomy and behavior.
2. Ability to safely restrain and handle sharks.
3. Understanding of shark biology, ecology, and habitat.
4. Ability to identify and respond to potential hazards associated with handling sharks.
5. Ability to use specialized tools and equipment for handling sharks.
6. Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and protocols for safe handling of sharks.
7. Excellent communication skills for working with shark researchers and other professionals.
8. Knowledge of first aid procedures in case of emergency.
9. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
10. Physical fitness and endurance to handle the strenuous demands of shark handling.

Being a successful shark handler requires a unique set of skills and abilities. One of the most important skills to have is the ability to remain calm and composed under pressure. When handling sharks, a handler must be knowledgeable of the shark’s behavior, body language, and reactions to different stimuli.

Proper knowledge and understanding of these factors can help prevent unnecessary injuries or fatalities. Another important skill is the ability to read the shark’s body language in order to determine if it is feeling threatened or comfortable. A shark handler must also be confident in their decisions and have quick reflexes when necessary.

Lastly, a shark handler must possess excellent communication skills to be able to effectively communicate with their team members and colleagues. All of these skills and abilities are essential for a successful shark handler, and can mean the difference between life and death.

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Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have with sharks?
• What safety protocols do you follow when handling sharks?
• How would you respond in a situation with an aggressive shark?
• How do you ensure the safety of those around you when handling sharks?
• What strategies do you use to keep sharks calm and comfortable during handling?
• Are you comfortable working with large sharks?
• How do you manage stress while working with sharks?
• What steps do you take to stay informed on best practices for shark handling?
• How do you ensure all safety measures are met while handling sharks?
• Describe a time when you successfully handled a difficult shark situation.

Common Tools in Industry

1. Safety Gloves. To protect hands from sharp objects (eg: shark teeth).
2. Shark Net. To contain the shark and protect the handler (eg: barrier between handler and shark).
3. Hook and Line. To manipulate the shark from a distance (eg: setting a hook in the shark's mouth).
4. Divers Knife. To cut line or netting if needed (eg: freeing a shark from entanglement).
5. Gaff Hook. To help lift the shark onto a boat or dock (eg: lifting the shark from shallow water).
6. Harpoon. To help secure the shark for tagging or transport (eg: attaching an identification tag to the shark).

Professional Organizations to Know

1. The American Association of Zoo Keepers
2. The International Marine Animal Trainers Association
3. The National Association of Marine Educators
4. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums
5. The Global Shark Attack File
6. The Shark Research Institute
7. The Shark Trust
8. The Shark Conservation Society
9. The Shark Savers
10. The Shark Education and Preservation Society

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Common Important Terms

1. Shark Cage. A metal enclosure used to protect divers when observing sharks in their natural habitat.
2. Shark Tag. A small tracking device attached to a shark in order to monitor its movements.
3. Shark Repellent. A chemical compound used to deter sharks from approaching certain areas.
4. Shark Deterrent. A physical barrier used to keep sharks away from certain areas.
5. Shark Resistant Wetsuit. A special type of wetsuit designed to protect divers from shark bites.
6. Shark Spotting. The practice of identifying and observing sharks from a safe distance.
7. Shark Education. The practice of educating people about the behavior and habitat of sharks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shark Handler?

Shark Handler is a company that provides professional shark wrangling services for filmmakers and photographers.

What types of sharks does Shark Handler work with?

Shark Handler specializes in working with species such as Nurse, Lemon, and Bull Sharks, as well as other species of sharks.

Does Shark Handler provide safety training?

Yes, Shark Handler provides safety training to ensure that all wranglers are knowledgeable in safe shark handling techniques.

Does Shark Handler provide equipment rental?

Yes, Shark Handler offers equipment rental, such as cages and boats, to customers that need it for their projects.

How long has Shark Handler been in business?

Shark Handler has been in business since 2004, providing professional shark wrangling services for over 16 years.

What are jobs related with Shark Handler?

• Shark Teeth Cleaner
• Shark Taxidermist
• Shark Researcher
• Shark Fin Exporter
• Shark Fin Importer
• Shark Biologist
• Mega-Mouth Shark Researcher
• Mako Shark Researcher
• Shark Fin Collector
• Shark Finning Technician

Web Resources

• Tracking Sharks – Shark Research & Conservation Program … sharkresearch.earth.miami.edu
• Shark Hub - NSU www.nova.edu
• Shark Pack Program | Miami Dade College www.mdc.edu