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Explosive Detection Canine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canine Handler

Pittsburgh, PA

$16 - $19/hr

Security ServicesK2 K9 Solutions, Inc., is immediately seeking experienced Explosive Detection Canine Handlers to work as a team on a Part-Time basis to inspect crowds, venues, personnel, cargo ...

Security ServicesK2 K9 Solutions, Inc., is immediately seeking experienced Explosive Detection Canine Handlers to work as a team on a Part-Time basis to inspect crowds, venues, personnel, cargo ...

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for those passionate about canine security. Join our innovative team committed to excellence in the ...

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for those passionate about canine security. Join our innovative team committed to excellence in the ...

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Explosive Detection Canine information

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$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.
Experienced Canine Handler - Explosive Detection

Experienced Canine Handler - Explosive Detection

Allied Universal

Mclean, VA • On-site

$30.10/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


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

Overview

Company Overview:

Advance your career in security with Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services, the global leader in security and threat mitigation. Following the acquisition of MSA Security in 2021, we became the world's largest non-governmental canine detection company. Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for those passionate about canine security. Join our innovative team committed to excellence in the security industry and make a meaningful impact. Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel managers.

Job Description

3 years canine experience and bachelor's degree or 7 years canine experience.

Active secret clearance or ability to obtain secret clearance.

Paid training provided. 

Hourly Pay Rate: $30.10

Canine stipend provided, care and training provided.  

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.

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.

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
  • 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!
Closing

Allied Universal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.

Requisition ID2026-1596913Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Allied Universal

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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