coming from someone who works at a pet store, in the reptile department, it seems like no one know what they are doing at the store you work at.

I am sure it is a combination of everything you listed.

How often do you work there?

Because you could try and take some initiative and research the basic care of the reptiles so YOU can make a difference, and show your manager/boss. It may be tough to get going, but once the cages etc. are set, then it is smooth sailing from there. I just think that if you show what it takes to take care of these animals it could make a difference.

ps. is it a privately owned store? or a chain store like petco or petsmart?