1

Explosive Detection Canine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Explosive Detection Canine information

See salary details

$9

$26

$41

How much do explosive detection canine jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive detection canine in the United States is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $30.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Explosive Detection Canine, a dog must possess a keen sense of smell, high trainability, discipline, and the physical endurance necessary for search and detection tasks. Certification through recognized programs and the ability to work with harnesses or other specialized detection equipment are essential. Strong focus, adaptability to various environments, and the ability to work closely with human handlers are vital soft skills for success. These qualities ensure that the canine can reliably and safely identify hazardous materials, protecting people and property in high-stakes situations.

What is an Explosive Detection Canine job?

An Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) job involves handling and working with specially trained dogs to detect explosives in various environments, such as airports, event venues, and government facilities. Handlers work closely with their canines to conduct searches, respond to security threats, and ensure public safety. These teams undergo rigorous training to identify a wide range of explosives using the dog's keen sense of smell. EDC handlers may work with law enforcement, private security firms, or government agencies. The role requires strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm in high-pressure situations.

What does a typical workday look like for an Explosive Detection Canine and its handler?

A typical day for an Explosive Detection Canine and its handler involves conducting routine sweeps of assigned areas, responding to specific security alerts, and participating in ongoing training exercises to maintain detection proficiency. The team may work in environments like airports, public venues, government buildings, or special events, adapting to different schedules and operational needs. Daily responsibilities include searching baggage, vehicles, buildings, or open spaces for explosive materials while maintaining the canine's health and readiness. The handler and canine work closely together, communicating through verbal cues and body language to ensure accurate detection and effective teamwork. This dynamic role requires strong collaboration, vigilance, and adaptability to changing scenarios.

More about Explosive Detection Canine jobs
What cities are hiring for Explosive Detection Canine jobs? Cities with the most Explosive Detection Canine job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Explosive Detection Canine jobs? The most popular types of Explosive Detection Canine jobs are:
What states have the most Explosive Detection Canine jobs? States with the most job openings for Explosive Detection Canine jobs include:
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection Canine job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,143 per year, or $27 per hour.
Explosive Detection Canine (K9) Handler

Explosive Detection Canine (K9) Handler

Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services

Chicago, IL • On-site

$30.10/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,398 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 100 rated security


Job description

Our canine group, under Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services, is hiring an Explosive Detection Canine (K9) Handler. The Explosive Detection K9 Handler partners with a trained Explosive Detection Canine (EDC), or “K9”, to conduct searches in/at assigned client sites, including corporate buildings, loading docks, delivery vehicles, open areas and/or other situations as needed.

Ready to make a difference as a canine handler.

Previous canine experience is not required, paid training provided.

Pay Rate: $30.10 per hour

Canine stipend / training and care provided.

Required for this position minimum of two yearsone of these qualifications'military, law enforcement or corrections.

Must have a private vehicle to transport K9 partner, they cannot be transported via public transportation.

Must be able to accommodate housing for K9 partner; K9 partner resides with you.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Partner with a trained Explosive Detection K9 to conduct searches in/at assigned client sites, including corporate buildings, loading docks, delivery vehicles, open areas and/or other situations as needed
  • Assist and liaise effectively with the client’s security manager, law enforcement agencies, security personnel, and local partners or their representatives in the execution of the security protocols as agreed to and described in the specific post orders for each post
  • Properly train the Explosive Detection K9, in accordance with Company policy, each day and ensuring their safety and well-being
  • Adhere to all regulatory or other protocols, including the use of any required technology

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Licensing requirements are subject to state and/or local laws and regulations and may be required prior to employment
  • Must possess a minimum of two (2) years in one or more of the following:
    • Service in any military branch (including Guard and Reserve)
    • Law enforcement role, with a completed accredited Law Enforcement Academy (Municipal/State/Federal)
    • Municipal or federal correctional officer, including attending a full-time accredited LE/Corrections Academy (must have enforcement responsibilities)
  • Possess adequate living environment to allow for the proper exercise and training of the K9
  • Access to reliable transportation sufficient to allow the safe transportation of the K9 to and from work
  • Willingness and ability to be available for incident/emergency response duty, standby duty, and client demonstrations, which includes various days and hours

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Service in Military Occupational Specialty related to law enforcement, security (such as Military Police, Elite Military Forces, combat arms) or any support role in a Combat Zone
  • Prior civilian or military K9 handler experience
  • Completion of a full military handler course
  • Bachelor’s degree in law enforcement or criminal justice related studies
  • A minimum of 8 or more years of service in any military branch

BENEFITS:

  • Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) plan, Eligible for our company's retirement plans
  • Paid time off offered at an accrual rate of 1 hour per 25 hours worked on a weekly basis
  • Eight paid holidays (subject to eligibility)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee discounts through our perks program to your favorite restaurants, entertainment venues, and much more!

What Allied Universal employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Allied Universal logo

About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US