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Explosive Detection Dog Handler Jobs in Washington

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$19 - $24/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 ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Bowie, MD · On-site

$17 - $21.75/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 ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Annapolis, MD · 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 ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Annandale, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/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 ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Adelphi, MD · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/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 ...

U.S. Navy

MASTER-AT-ARMS

Rockville, MD · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/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 ...

Constellis

Junior K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$26 - $28.50/hr

Conduct authorized representative duties related to X-Ray, physical search, and explosive trace detection as needed * Perform Junior Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

A property selected to house an Andy Frain working dog shall be such that will accommodate a kennel ... Detection program. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing company in the K9 ...

Andy Frain Services

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $19.75/hr

A property selected to house an Andy Frain working dog shall be such that will accommodate a kennel ... Detection program. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing company in the K9 ...

Andy Frain

Experienced K9 Handler

Mclean, VA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

A property selected to house an Andy Frain working dog shall be such that will accommodate a kennel ... Detection program. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing company in the K9 ...

Andy Frain

Experienced K9 Handler

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19 - $22.50/hr

A property selected to house an Andy Frain working dog shall be such that will accommodate a kennel ... Detection program. This is an exciting opportunity to join a fast-growing company in the K9 ...

Constellis

Junior K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Conduct authorized representative duties related to X-Ray, physical search, and explosive trace detection as needed * PerformJuniorHandler duties while commanding a trained working dog * Responsible ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Arnold, MD

$17 - $21.75/hr

... to detect weapons, contraband, or unauthorized items; enforce traffic and parking regulations ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Ellicott City, MD

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... to detect weapons, contraband, or unauthorized items; enforce traffic and parking regulations ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Lansdowne, MD

$17 - $21.75/hr

... to detect weapons, contraband, or unauthorized items; enforce traffic and parking regulations ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Ilchester, MD

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

... to detect weapons, contraband, or unauthorized items; enforce traffic and parking regulations ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

U.S. Navy

Military Security Officer

Glen Burnie, MD

$17 - $21.50/hr

... to detect weapons, contraband, or unauthorized items; enforce traffic and parking regulations ... Military Working Dog Handler and Kennel Master, Harbor Security Coxswain and Patrol Leader ...

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All JobsExplosive Detection Dog Handler JobsExplosive Detection Dog Handler Jobs in Washington

Explosive Detection Dog Handler information

See Washington salary details

$11

$20

$27

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive detection dog handler in Washington is $20.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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 complete certification programs. Prior experience in law enforcement, military, or security fields can be advantageous, and handlers must develop strong skills in obedience, communication, and situational awareness while working closely with trained detection dogs.

How to get into explosive detection dog handling?

To become an explosive detection dog handler, candidates 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 a clean background check are also important for employment in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Washington?

For Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Washington are:

Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection Dog Handler job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,329 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

MASTER-AT-ARMS

U.S. Navy

Gaithersburg, MD • On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

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

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

In any large community like the Navy, law enforcement and security are essential. Whether executing crime prevention programs or carrying out anti-terrorism measures, the Sailors working as the Navy’s military police are equipped to handle any situation. Provide security on ships, at bases and at military installations all around the world. Train to become a K9 dog handler and even protect and escort shipboard weapons in the armory. The call to serve and protect starts by defending our own.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The law enforcement and security community provide a wide range of critical services to every part of the Navy. As a Master-at-Arms you may:

  • Provide security and physical protection for service members
  • Train fellow Sailors in security and shore patrol duties
  • Serve as a security advisor for your squadron
  • Assist in crowd control and riot prevention
  • Operate military prisons (brigs) aboard ships and on shore
  • Handle and care and training for dogs that detect narcotics and explosives
  • Conduct waterborne security patrol and interdiction operations
  • Provide protective service to high-ranking dignitaries and government officials
  • Conduct preliminary investigations into Uniform Code of Military Justice violations
  • Conduct crime prevention programs

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • As an Enlisted Sailor working in law enforcement, you will have the chance to work in a number of environments. Though sometimes you may work behind a desk, you will often be out interacting with the community in a law enforcement capacity. You can expect to work at shore stations in the United States and overseas, aboard ships or as part of a maritime security squadron. In short, your assignments could take you anywhere in the world.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

  • Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Masters-at-Arms in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
  • For annual training, Masters-at-Arms may serve anywhere in the world—on ships or at bases and installations

What United States Navy employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About US Navy

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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