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Animal Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must certify with assigned canine for employment. Handler will be responsible for the ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Arlington, VA

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Andy Frain

Experienced K9 Handler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19 - $22.50/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Andy Frain

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Duties and Responsibilities • Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $22.25/hr

Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal ... Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain ...

Allied Universal

Veterinarian

Winchester, VA · On-site

$85 - $90/hr

Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel managers. Our canine group, under Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services, is hiring a ...

All JobsAnimal Handler JobsAnimal Handler Jobs in Virginia

Animal Handler information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do animal handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal handler in Virginia is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the common daily responsibilities of an Animal Handler?

Animal Handlers are typically responsible for feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring the health of animals under their care. They may also be involved in cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures, administering basic medications, and assisting veterinarians or trainers during procedures. Collaboration with team members is common to ensure proper animal care and support a smooth workflow. Depending on the workplace, handlers may work with a variety of species and follow specific protocols tailored to each animal's needs. Understanding these day-to-day tasks helps job seekers prepare for the hands-on and sometimes physically demanding nature of the role.

What does it take to be an animal handler?

An animal handler typically needs a strong understanding of animal behavior, safety protocols, and proper handling techniques. Relevant skills include patience, physical fitness, and sometimes certifications in animal care or safety. Experience working with animals and knowledge of specific species are also important for this role.

What is an Animal Handler job?

An Animal Handler is responsible for the care, transport, and management of animals in various settings, such as zoos, veterinary clinics, research facilities, or entertainment industries. Their duties include feeding, grooming, exercising, and ensuring animals are comfortable and safe. They may also assist in medical procedures or training. Strong knowledge of animal behavior and handling techniques is essential.

What qualifications do you need to become an animal caretaker?

Animal handlers typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant experience working with animals. Certifications in animal care, such as pet first aid or species-specific training, can enhance job prospects, and good physical fitness and communication skills are important for handling animals safely and effectively.

What is the highest paying job in the animal industry?

The highest paying jobs in the animal industry often include specialized roles such as veterinary surgeons, zoo directors, or research scientists, with veterinary surgeons typically earning the highest salaries. These positions usually require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience. Animal handlers generally earn lower wages compared to these specialized roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Animal Handler position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Handler, you need practical knowledge of animal behavior, safe handling techniques, and often a high school diploma or specialized animal care training. Familiarity with animal restraint tools, safety protocols, and in some cases relevant certifications such as animal first aid are important. Patience, strong observation skills, and effective communication help Animal Handlers work well with both animals and colleagues. These skills are essential for ensuring the well-being of the animals, maintaining safety, and supporting a productive work environment.

What do animal handlers do?

Animal handlers are responsible for caring for, managing, and training animals in various settings such as zoos, farms, or research facilities. They ensure animals' well-being, safety, and proper behavior, often using specific handling techniques and safety protocols. The role may require knowledge of animal behavior and sometimes certifications in animal care or safety procedures.
What are popular job titles related to Animal Handler jobs in Virginia? For Animal Handler jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Animal Handler jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Animal Handler jobs in Virginia are:
Animal Handler jobs near you
Experienced K9 Handler

Experienced K9 Handler

Andy Frain Services

Mclean, VA • On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description


Andy Frain services is currently hiring a qualified individual to fill a full-time opening for our Armed Person Borne K9 Detection program. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing company in the K9 / Security Industry. The ideal candidate for this role would be a highly motivated, retired Law enforcement, or prior military canine handler willing to be available for incident/emergency response duty, standby duty, and client demonstrations, which includes weekends, holidays, nights, and overnights.
Qualified applicants must have:
  • Single purpose canine handler certificate or possess the ability to obtain same prior to commencing work.
  • Dual purpose canine handler certificate or possess the ability to obtain same prior to commencing work.
  • Three (3) or more years law enforcement canine handling experience, or three (3) or more years military canine handling experience or similarly documented substantially similar experience acquired elsewhere. Selected applicants will be subject to a ninety (90) day probationary period which must be satisfactorily completed.
  • Applicants must also meet the following criteria: Expressed willingness to remain with the program for at least three years.

Expressed willingness (together with other family members) to care for and house the canine at the handler's residence in accord with all Andy Frain policies and procedures.
Provide a secure outdoor area for the canine that conforms to Andy Frain Services requirements.
Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal.
Demonstrate physical fitness abilities related to the tasks of canine handling: lifting, carrying, climbing, and balancing while bearing the combined weight of the canine and any necessary associated equipment.
Applicants will be expected to demonstrate overall fitness abilities consistent with the strength, endurance, and cardiopulmonary capacities required of newly certified officers.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain prescribed Person Borne Gun Detection Course.
  • Handlers must certify with assigned canine for employment.
  • Handler will be responsible for the health, welfare, and maintenance of assigned canine.
  • Handler will be responsible for maintaining training and utilization records.
  • Must maintain annual canine certifications.
  • Must have valid driver's licenses, and clear driving record for last three years and complete Andy Frain Safe Drivers' Instruction.
  • Must maintain company assigned vehicle consistent with Andy Frain fleet management policies and procedures.
  • Handler will conduct searches as directed by Andy Frain management only with the assigned canine and only at Andy Frain designated sites.
  • Provide assistance as directed by Andy Frain management, designated authorized client contact(s) and law enforcement agencies.
  • Maintain all assigned canine-related equipment.
  • Must strictly comply with and maintain as current or active all instruction, certifications and licensing required in the jurisdiction to which they are assigned to perform the work, including those associated with the possession, use, handling, and care of firearms.
  • Strictly adhere to all Andy Frain policy and procedural requirements to perform as an armed employee. Possess, use, or carry only Andy Frain approved firearms.
  • Must be able to wear all prescribed gear while on duty (Vest, duty belt and any other associated items related to work).
  • Must be able to pass the firearms training and department qualification for carrying on duty.
  • Must be able to satisfactorily complete prescribed Andy Frain assessment tools used to authorize the handler to provide Armed work in a manner acceptable by Andy Frain Policy.
  • Prior to an officer being selected as a canine handler, it is preferred that the officer resides at a personally owned residence. However, if the officer resides in a dwelling they do not own, the handler shall have written permission from the homeowner that allows the officer to have a canine and provide living quarters for a police canine on the property. A property selected to house an Andy Frain working dog shall be such that will accommodate a kennel and include flooring which shall be constructed of building materials that will securely contain the canine and keep it safe. A suitable residence is required and will be inspected prior to an officer being selected as a canine handler to ensure the property can accommodate a canine and kennel by the Canine Coordinator.
  • Residences that house a canine will have "caution" signs identifying that a dog is on the property and the signs will be placed at the exterior entrance gate and on the secured kennel gate. When a canine handler is not present at his/her residence, the canine will be kept in the secured kennel supplied by Andy Frain Services.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 90 pounds, including assigned K9 for 50 feet.
  • Must be able to walk for an extended period.
  • Requires climbing, squatting, bending, kneeling.
  • Kneel (on one or both knees) and squat for a sustained period up to at least one - two minutes.
  • Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.
  • Must be able to run one mile.

This description portrays in general terms the type and level(s) of work performed and is not intended to be all-inclusive, nor the specific duties of any one incumbent. Andy Frain Services reserves the right to modify, supplement, delete or augment the duties and responsibilities specified in the position description, in the Company's sole and absolute discretion. Duties other than those expressly specified may be assigned from time to time.
Job description
Andy Frain services is currently hiring a qualified individual to fill a full-time opening for our Armed Person Borne K9 Detection program. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing company in the K9 / Security Industry. The ideal candidate for this role would be a highly motivated, retired Law enforcement, or prior military canine handler willing to be available for incident/emergency response duty, standby duty, and client demonstrations, which includes weekends, holidays, nights, and overnights.
Qualified applicants must have:
  • Single purpose canine handler certificate or possess the ability to obtain same prior to commencing work.
  • Dual purpose canine handler certificate or possess the ability to obtain same prior to commencing work.
  • Three (3) or more years law enforcement canine handling experience, or three (3) or more years military canine handling experience or similarly documented substantially similar experience acquired elsewhere. Selected applicants will be subject to a ninety (90) day probationary period which must be satisfactorily completed.
  • Applicants must also meet the following criteria: Expressed willingness to remain with the program for at least three years.

Expressed willingness (together with other family members) to care for and house the canine at the handler's residence in accord with all Andy Frain policies and procedures.
Provide a secure outdoor area for the canine that conforms to Andy Frain Services requirements.
Possess a strong desire to work with canines and a willingness to care for and train the animal.
Demonstrate physical fitness abilities related to the tasks of canine handling: lifting, carrying, climbing, and balancing while bearing the combined weight of the canine and any necessary associated equipment.
Applicants will be expected to demonstrate overall fitness abilities consistent with the strength, endurance, and cardiopulmonary capacities required of newly certified officers.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Handlers must receive and maintain all required certifications consistent with the Andy Frain prescribed Person Borne Gun Detection Course.
  • Handlers must certify with assigned canine for employment.
  • Handler will be responsible for the health, welfare, and maintenance of assigned canine.
  • Handler will be responsible for maintaining training and utilization records.
  • Must maintain annual canine certifications.
  • Must have valid driver's licenses, and clear driving record for last three years and complete Andy Frain Safe Drivers' Instruction.
  • Must maintain company assigned vehicle consistent with Andy Frain fleet management policies and procedures.
  • Handler will conduct searches as directed by Andy Frain management only with the assigned canine and only at Andy Frain designated sites.
  • Provide assistance as directed by Andy Frain management, designated authorized client contact(s) and law enforcement agencies.
  • Maintain all assigned canine-related equipment.
  • Must strictly comply with and maintain as current or active all instruction, certifications and licensing required in the jurisdiction to which they are assigned to perform the work, including those associated with the possession, use, handling, and care of firearms.
  • Strictly adhere to all Andy Frain policy and procedural requirements to perform as an armed employee. Possess, use, or carry only Andy Frain approved firearms.
  • Must be able to wear all prescribed gear while on duty (Vest, duty belt and any other associated items related to work).
  • Must be able to pass the firearms training and department qualification for carrying on duty.
  • Must be able to satisfactorily complete prescribed Andy Frain assessment tools used to authorize the handler to provide Armed work in a manner acceptable by Andy Frain Policy.
  • Prior to an officer being selected as a canine handler, it is preferred that the officer resides at a personally owned residence. However, if the officer resides in a dwelling they do not own, the handler shall have written permission from the homeowner that allows the officer to have a canine and provide living quarters for a police canine on the property. A property selected to house an Andy Frain working dog shall be such that will accommodate a kennel and include flooring which shall be constructed of building materials that will securely contain the canine and keep it safe. A suitable residence is required and will be inspected prior to an officer being selected as a canine handler to ensure the property can accommodate a canine and kennel by the Canine Coordinator.
  • Residences that house a canine will have "caution" signs identifying that a dog is on the property and the signs will be placed at the exterior entrance gate and on the secured kennel gate. When a canine handler is not present at his/her residence, the canine will be kept in the secured kennel supplied by Andy Frain Services.

Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 90 pounds, including assigned K9 for 50 feet.
  • Must be able to walk for an extended period.
  • Requires climbing, squatting, bending, kneeling.
  • Kneel (on one or both knees) and squat for a sustained period up to at least one - two minutes.
  • Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms.
  • Must be able to run one mile.

This description portrays in general terms the type and level(s) of work performed and is not intended to be all-inclusive, nor the specific duties of any one incumbent. Andy Frain Services reserves the right to modify, supplement, delete or augment the duties and responsibilities specified in the position description, in the Company's sole and absolute discretion. Duties other than those expressly specified may be assigned from time to time.

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