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Explosive Detection Dog Handler Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Provide protective ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Mobile, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Conduct waterborne ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Mobile, AL

$17.25 - $22/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Conduct waterborne ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Birmingham, AL

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Conduct waterborne ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Montgomery, AL

$17.25 - $22/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Conduct waterborne ...

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Tuscaloosa, AL

$15.75 - $20/hr

Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The ... Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives * Conduct waterborne ...

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Explosive Detection Dog Handler information

See Alabama salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do explosive detection dog handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive detection dog handler in Alabama is $16.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.38 and $16.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an explosive detection dog handler do?

A typical day for an Explosive Detection Dog Handler involves conducting security sweeps with your canine partner in areas such as airports, public events, or transportation facilities. Handlers are responsible for maintaining the dog's training and well-being, performing operational searches, logging search results, and coordinating closely with security teams or law enforcement personnel. You may also need to attend briefings, assist in public demonstrations, and remain on-call for emergency responses. As part of a security team, regular communication and collaboration with supervisors, other handlers, and first responders are essential to ensuring public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an explosive detection dog handler?

To thrive as an Explosive Detection Dog Handler, you generally need experience in canine behavior, knowledge of threat assessment, physical fitness, and often law enforcement or military training. Certification from recognized programs such as the TSA, ATF, or police K-9 units, as well as proficiency with radio communication and reporting systems, is frequently required. Excellent observational skills, patience, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills. These competencies are vital for ensuring safety, accurately detecting threats, and maintaining a reliable partnership with the working dog in high-stakes environments.

What is an explosive detection dog handler?

An Explosive Detection Dog Handler is responsible for training and working with specially trained dogs to detect explosives in various environments, such as airports, public events, or security checkpoints. They ensure the dog's readiness through regular training, obedience exercises, and scent detection drills. Handlers often work with law enforcement, military, or private security firms to prevent potential threats. The role requires strong communication skills, patience, and knowledge of canine behavior. Proper certifications and training are typically required to work in this field.

How to become an explosive detection dog handler?

To become an explosive detection dog handler, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, undergo specialized training in canine handling and explosive detection, and often have prior law enforcement or security experience. Certification from relevant agencies and physical fitness are also important, along with strong communication and teamwork skills.

How do you become an explosive detection dog handler?

To become an explosive detection dog handler, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, undergo specialized training in canine handling and explosive detection, and often complete certification programs. Prior experience in law enforcement, military, or security fields can be beneficial, and handlers must pass background checks and physical fitness assessments to work in this role.

How to get into explosive detection dog handling?

To become an explosive detection dog handler, individuals typically need a background in law enforcement, military, or security work, along with training in canine handling and explosives detection. Certification programs and specialized training courses are often required, and handlers must develop skills in obedience, scent detection, and teamwork with the dog. Physical fitness and the ability to work in high-pressure environments are also important.
What are popular job titles related to Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Alabama? For Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection Dog Handler job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,875 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Canine Assistant Trainer - Opelika, AL

GLOBAL K9 PROTECTION GROUP LLC

Opelika, AL • On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Other

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


Global K9 Protection Group rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 116 rated security


Job description

Descriptions/ Job Summary:

Assistant Trainer

Job Type: Temporary, 6 months

Global K9 Protection Group LLC is looking for a dedicated and passionate Assistant Trainerto serve as an integral part of the GK9PG Team.

Responsibilities:
Apply provided guidance for canine detection training to include imprint, sustainment, and advancement training from assigned subject matter expert staff members.
Develop K9's core competency & prepare canines for handler pairing certification, & deployment.
Demonstrate a clear basic understanding of both operant & classical conditioning. Successfully implement the appropriate techniques for explosives detection, vapor wake, narcotics detection, and tracking K9 training, positive reinforcement, marker training, hand signals, voice commands, and reward systems.
Utilize basic knowledge and experience to organize and conduct training exercises consistent with department curriculum and standards.
Assist with the basic development of training procedures and handler course curriculum.
Ensure Canine's/ K9 meet company standards prior to deployment & team pairing.
Always maintain a safe work environment and conditions.
Contribute to a cooperative and professional work environment to accomplish goals and objectives.
Conduct effective and efficient training and instruction independently.

Follow the training plan for additional K9 capabilities; agility; group session training; basic and advanced obedience; behavior modification; scent detection.
Follow training process for explosive detection (EDCT, VW, NDCT, Tracking) from inception process through advanced levels of detection training for multiple teams of varying skill levels.
Conduct remedial training to address canine deficiencies to meet certification & operational standards.
Facilitate operational training scenarios that allow canines to work independently within assigned operational environments.
Provide proper application of various search patterns conducive to specific operational scenarios.
Evaluate a canine's level of proficiency in all applicable certification areas for explosives detection, vapor wake and narcotics detection.
Follow canine detection training processes from inception through advanced levels of detection training for multiple teams of varying skill levels.
Conduct searches and canine demonstrations on and off site.
Conduct assigned Kennel Attendant duties as required for the operation.
Train, maintain, certify, and forward deploy with assigned canine as required for operational support.
Other duties assigned by management.
Maintain accurate records to include training and utilization, evaluation, course work, and class attendance.
Utilize proper process and chain of command to address any training deficiencies extensions.

Qualifications:

Citizen or national of the United States
Able to pass background check and drug screen.
Minimum education of high school diploma, General Equivalency Diploma.
Can read, write, and understand English well enough to carry out written and oral instructions.
Two (2) years minimum experience preferred in the training of various canine breeds; experience in training and instruction of explosives detection is required.
Trainer/ Instructor Certification(s) from a reputable canine training agency is preferred.
Must be able to obtain the following within 90 days of employment.

- Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Security Threat Assessment.
- Known Traveler Number (TSA Pre-Check) through TSA.
- Other background checks as required for assigned projects.

Ability to get and maintain a Employee Possessor license through ATF

- ATF Employee Possessor clearance approval to possess explosive training aids.

Competencies:

Mentors, inspires and champions employees for continued growth and development
Excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
Effectively communicate customer related issues and devise ways of improving customer experience, including resolving problems and complaints.
Able to lead others with tact, respect, and professionalism.
Reach across organizational lines to integrate and streamline essential functions.
Excellent communication skills both written and verbally
Confidentiality
Strong technology skills including usage of email, student information systems, and learning management systems
Organizational record-keeping, and interpersonal skills
Knowledge of subject area, educational theory and application, and organizational structure
Learning and self-motivation skills
Willingness to extend self to help students succeed
Attention to detail and maintain a positive attitude
Flexibility in dealing with others
Ability to work as a team member and prioritize work
Behaves in accordance with Global K9 Solutions mission, goals, and values
Knowledge and implementation of safe working conditions

Work Conditions:

Required to lift and carry various items weighing 100 lbs. or more. Prolonged standing required.
Requires intermittent sitting, walking, running, climbing, squatting, stretching, bending, and kneeling. Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate canine, objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms
Training and operational environments work conditions vary, both subject to frequent interruptions.
Frequent work inside and outside and during inclement weather conditions is required, to include heat, cold, and humidity.
May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration. Work hours will be dictated by management. Nights, weekends, and holiday hours will be required, and the work schedule will vary.

Travel Required:

10%-30%


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