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Explosive Detection Dog Handler Jobs in Texas (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 ...

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Explosive Detection Dog Handler information

See Texas salary details

$9

$16

$22

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive detection dog handler in Texas is $16.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.76 and $17.45 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 Texas? For Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection Dog Handler job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,819 per year, or $16.7 per hour.

Canine Handler - Explosive Detection

Allied Universal

Pampa, TX • On-site

$29.83/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,550 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 116 rated security


Job description

Canine Handler - Explosive Detection
Job Locations US-TX-Amarillo | US-TX-Pampa
Category (Portal Searching) Canine Handler Business Unit EPS Canine
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

Ready to make a difference as a canine handler.

Previous canine experience is not required, paid training provided.

Hourly Pay Rate: $29.83

Canine stipend provided, care and training provided.

Required for this position minimum of two years one 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.

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 ID
2026-1598603

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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