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Explosive Detection Dog Handler Jobs in Chicago, IL

Constellis

K9 Handler

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The Handler will be required to complete a 4-8 weeks minimum team training course and certification ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

American K9 Detective Services

Lead Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Lead Handler willbe responsible foroverseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

Lead Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Lead Handler willbe responsible foroverseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

K9 Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

Handler The Handler will be responsible for screening cargo in compliance with TSA rules and ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

Lead Handler

Chicago, IL · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

Lead Handler The Lead Handler will be responsible for overseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo ... Citizenship is required Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in ...

Constellis

K9 Handler

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The Handler will be required to complete a 4-8 weeks minimum team training course and certification ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

K9 Handler

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$25 - $27/hr

The Handler will be required to complete a 4-8 weeks minimum team training course and certification ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

Lead Handler

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Lead Handler will be responsible for overseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

Lead Handler

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$31 - $33/hr

POSITION SUMMARY The Lead Handler will be responsible for overseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo ... Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

Area Trainer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K/yr

Perform temporary Handler duties while commanding a trained explosive working dog as required for ... Three years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

Constellis

Area Trainer

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$75K/yr

Perform temporary Handler duties while commanding a trained explosive working dog as required for ... Three years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ...

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All JobsExplosive Detection Dog Handler JobsExplosive Detection Dog Handler Jobs in Chicago, IL

Explosive Detection Dog Handler information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive detection dog handler in Chicago, IL is $18.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $19.33 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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Explosive Detection Dog Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection Dog Handler job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, and 37% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,531 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Canine Handler (Chicago)

K2K9 SOLUTIONS LLC

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$25 - $36/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

 Location: Chicago, IL
 Job Type: Part-Time
 Department: 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, vehicles, and buildings in conjunction with client needs. Depending on the client, handler duties may include working at major sports events, scanning the crowds to detect potential Person-Borne(TM) Explosive threats.Successful candidates MUST live within a reasonable driving distance of the job site (approx. 1 hour, each way max). The Canine Handler performs his or her duties while working as a trained EDD canine that has met a national certification. Details about K2K9's proprietary Person-Borne (TM) Explosive Detection Dog (PB-EDD) program are at www.k2k9s.com**Candidates MUST be able to attend a 6-8-week Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) training course at K2K9's North Carolina Training Center. (Additional details about training in next section.)**

Responsibilities:

  • The Canine Handler Team will be required to search for and identify explosive threats at commercial venues.
  • Venues are large stadium-type environments and require handlers who are experienced in interfacing with the public and always presenting a professional image and demeanor.
  • Customers include, but are not limited to, professional sports teams. Handlers must be comfortable interacting with the team's executive leadership, players, facilities managers and security personnel.
  • Handlers must be comfortable scanning crowds with their canines to identify potential Person-Borne explosives.
  • Handlers must successfully complete a 6-8 week training program in K2K9 Solutions' proprietary Person-Borne (TM) Explosive Detection Dog handling program.
  • The PB-EDD program is held at K2K9's NC training facility. Students will be paid a generous, non-taxable daily Per Diem and will stay in fully furnished K2K9 apartments.
  • Must have a reliable vehicle to transport yourself and your assigned canine to and from work.
  • The handler will be responsible for maintaining training records to maintain certification.
  • Handlers are responsible for the housing, care and maintenance of the assigned canine. Upon course completion, a $100/month stipend will be paid for the care and feeding of your working canine.
  • The handler must be able to complete all required administrative tasks, such as timecards and expense reports, accurately and on time to your supervisor.
  • The handler may be required to work additional hours as directed.

  • Qualifications and Skills

  • Handling experience within the past 3 years strongly preferred but not required
  • Law Enforcement, Military or Security background strongly preferred
  • Able to recognize K9 diseases, be familiar with hygiene requirements, and know the physical condition of the K-9
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment
  • Exercise sound judgment in all areas of responsibility
  • Maintain effective professional relationships with employees and outside individuals and agencies
  • Able to understand and successfully handle various operational issues

***Due to the nature of this position, candidates must be eligible to possess firearms and explosives in accordance with 27 CFR Part 555 and 27 CFR Part 478. Proof of eligibility will be verified as part of the hiring process.***

Experience and Education:
  • 1 year Handler experience preferred
  • Former Law Enforcement or Military K9 background preferred             

 Required Qualifications:

  • Must have a valid State issued Driver’s License
  • Must Obtain a TSA Precheck KTN (Known Travel Number) Sign Up for TSA PreCheck Today | Identogo
  • Must be willing to pass a drug screen.
  • Part time - Must have a minimum availability of 3 days weekly
  • Full time – Must have open availability
  • Must be willing, able and correctly documented to travel for support of K2K9 needs
  • Ability to successfully meet on-going canine training requirements and logs
  • Must be able to recognize K-9 diseases, be familiar with hygiene requirements and know the physical condition of the dog.

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