ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Detection Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American K9 Detective Services

Lead Handler

Miami, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational environment preferred * Prior supervisory experience preferred * Prior Military or Law Enforcement preferred

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Twinsburg, OH · On-site

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Taurus

Dog Trainer

Austin, TX · On-site

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Taurus

Dog Trainer

Austin, TX · On-site

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Henderson Pet Resort

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Taurus

Dog Trainer

Austin, TX · On-site

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Tails Up

Dog Trainer

Castle Rock, CO

$16.50/hr

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Arlington, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Taurus

Dog Trainer

Austin, TX · On-site

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$16 - $17/hr

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Arlington, TN · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

The Professional Dog Trainer is a position within the Resort and reports directly to the General ... You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ...

PetSuites

Dog Trainer

Novi, MI · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

Taurus

You'll spend time playing detective -- observing behaviors of your new friend and solving the ... Training with assigned dogs daily * Prepare training plans to assist clients with behavior ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDetection Dog Jobs

Detection Dog information

See salary details

$8

$27

$82

How much do detection dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for detection dog in the United States is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $29.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Detection Dog, a keen sense of smell, strong focus, and high trainability are essential, typically demonstrated through specialized training and certification for scent detection. Most detection dogs undergo rigorous training using specific odor recognition tools and may require certification from organizations like the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association or similar bodies. A calm temperament, adaptability, and strong working relationship with their handler are crucial soft skills for this role. These qualifications ensure that detection dogs can reliably and safely perform their duties in diverse and dynamic environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Detection Dog and their handler?

A Detection Dog and their handler typically start each day with routine training exercises to maintain scent detection accuracy and reinforce obedience commands. On duty, teams may be assigned to search luggage, vehicles, buildings, or outdoor areas for substances such as drugs, explosives, or other contraband, depending on their specialization. The work often involves varied environments, from airports to warehouses or public events, requiring adaptability and teamwork. Handlers closely monitor their dog's behavior and cues, ensuring safety and accuracy throughout each assignment. Regular care, socialization, and downtime are also important parts of the daily routine for a Detection Dog.

What is a Detection Dog job?

A Detection Dog is a specially trained canine that uses its keen sense of smell to locate specific substances, such as drugs, explosives, or missing persons. These dogs work with law enforcement, military, customs, and search-and-rescue teams to detect illegal or dangerous items. Their training focuses on odor recognition, obedience, and task-specific behaviors to ensure accuracy. Detection dogs play a crucial role in public safety and security efforts worldwide.

More about Detection Dog jobs
What cities are hiring for Detection Dog jobs? Cities with the most Detection Dog job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Detection Dog jobs? The most popular types of Detection Dog jobs are:
What states have the most Detection Dog jobs? States with the most job openings for Detection Dog jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Detection Dog jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Detection Dog jobs are:
Detection Dog jobs near you
Infographic showing various Detection Dog job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,248 per year, or $27 per hour.

Lead Handler

American K9 Detective Services

Miami, FL • On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The Lead Handler will be responsible for overseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo screenings are done in compliance with TSA rules and regulations.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Provide supervision and training to Handlers and canines at assigned locations

  • Conduct and oversee authorized representative duties related to X-Ray, physical search, and explosive trace detection as needed

  • Perform canine training, audits and administrative deliverables asrequiredfor assigned Canine Teams

  • Manage,superviseand coordinate post assignments and schedules for canine Handlers, to include vacation relief that ensure required coverage

  • Participate in CCSP related training to search cargo andidentifythreats

  • Perform Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog

  • Handler willbe responsible formaintainingtraining records

  • Responsible for care and maintenance of assigned canine. The assigned canine must bepermittedto live inside the employee's residence. Theemployee'sresidence must be adequate, indoor, and climate- controlledfor the canine. The canine living area at the employee's residence is subject to reoccurring inspections.

  • Mustmaintainall job-related certifications andrequiredsecurity clearances

  • Must be willing tooperatecompany vehicle (during on-site training)

  • Work conditions can vary from a busy training environment tofield work, both subject to frequent interruptions. Frequent work outside and in inclement weather conditions isrequired, including heat, cold, and humidity. May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration. Work hours will be dictated by the customers agreed upon schedule. Nights, weekends, and holiday hours will berequired, and the work schedule will vary. Travel may also berequired.
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

  • U.S. Citizenship isrequired
    • Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational environment preferred


  • Prior supervisory experience preferred

  • Prior Military or Law Enforcement preferred

  • Must be able to obtain a Known Traveler Number (KTN), STA, and SIDA within four to six weeks of employmentrequired, and pass all applicable background checks

  • Must have adequate transportation to transport assigned Canine and Crate (inside the vehicle) to/from assigned work location; transportation must have operational climate control

  • Must be able to pass the applicable Contract Testing and Certifications for the program within four to six weeks of employment; candidate mustmaintainthe certification requirements

  • Must have a valid driver's license and a clear driving record for the last three years

  • Effective oral and written communication skills with all levels of the organization

  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and multiple priorities to completion

  • Problem solving skills with an analytical thought process

  • Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment

  • Must be able to lift and carryvarious itemsweighing up to 100 lbs. Requires standing forlong periodsof time in all weather conditions. Requires intermittent sitting, walking, running, climbing, squatting, stretching, bending, and kneeling. Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle oroperateobjects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms

BENEFITS

Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflectsits commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.

Constellis and its affiliated companies are equal opportunity employers. All applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

Apply