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Explosive Detection K9 Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

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

K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

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

K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

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

K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$29 - $31/hr

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

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 * Perform Junior Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog

K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

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

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 * Perform Junior Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog

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

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 * Perform Junior Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog

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

Junior K9 Handler

Reston, VA

$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 ...

Lead Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/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 ...

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for ... Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel ...

Veterinarian

Winchester, VA · On-site

$85 - $90/hr

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for ... Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel ...

Veterinarian

Winchester, VA · On-site

$83 - $90/hr

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for ... Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel ...

Veterinarian

Winchester, VA · On-site

$83 - $90/hr

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for ... Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel ...

Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Army as a Working Dog Handler might be right for you. Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are ... odor detection (explosive/drug). Service dogs, generally seen as a non-lethal option for ...

Veterinarian

Winchester, VA · On-site

$83 - $90/hr

Specializing in canine explosives and firearm detection, we offer exciting career opportunities for ... Explore key roles such as canine officers, handlers, trainers, veterinary technicians, and kennel ...

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Army as a Working Dog Handler might be right for you. Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are ... odor detection (explosive/drug). Service dogs, generally seen as a non-lethal option for ...

Showing results 21-40

Explosive Detection K9 Handler information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do explosive detection k9 handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for explosive detection k9 handler in Virginia is $17.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $18.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an explosive detection K9 handler?

Explosive Detection K9 Handlers are specialized professionals trained to work with dogs that are capable of detecting explosives and other hazardous materials. They are responsible for training, handling, and caring for their K9 partners, as well as conducting searches in various environments such as airports, public events, and sensitive facilities. Handlers must be knowledgeable about canine behavior, safety protocols, and the legal aspects of search operations. Their work is critical for public safety and often involves collaborating with law enforcement or security agencies.

What are some common challenges faced by explosive detection K9 handlers in the field?

Explosive Detection K9 Handlers often encounter challenges such as working in high-pressure environments, adapting to unpredictable schedules, and ensuring their canine partners remain focused despite distractions. Handlers must maintain a strong bond with their dogs and continually train to keep detection skills sharp, especially as threats and environments evolve. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with security teams, law enforcement, and event organizers, which requires excellent communication and teamwork skills.

What is the difference between Explosive Detection K9 Handler vs Security K9 Handler?

AspectExplosive Detection K9 HandlerSecurity K9 Handler
CertificationsCanine handler certification, explosive detection trainingCanine handler certification, general security training
Work EnvironmentHigh-security areas, airports, government facilitiesPublic events, private security, facilities
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, military, security agenciesPrivate security firms, event security

Explosive Detection K9 Handlers specialize in detecting explosives, often working in high-security environments with specialized training. Security K9 Handlers focus on general security tasks, including crowd control and patrolling. While both roles require canine handling skills and certifications, Explosive Detection K9 Handlers have additional explosive detection training and typically operate in more sensitive settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an explosive detection K9 handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Explosive Detection K9 Handler, you need knowledge of canine behavior, detection techniques, and law enforcement or military protocols, often supported by relevant certifications or police academy training. Familiarity with scent detection tools, GPS tracking systems, and ongoing K9 handler certification programs is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, patience, and adaptability are essential soft skills for building trust with the canine partner and collaborating with security teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective threat detection, public safety, and the reliable performance of K9 units in high-stakes environments.
What are popular job titles related to Explosive Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia? For Explosive Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Explosive Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Explosive Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection K9 Handler job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,053 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor

Allied Universal

Arlington, VA • On-site

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 2,554 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 116 rated security


Job description

Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor
Job Locations US-VA-Arlington
Requisition ID 2026-1634409 Category (Portal Searching) Canine Technician 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

Our canine group under, Allied Universal Enhanced Protection Services, is hiring a Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor . The Field Supervisor is responsible and accountable for the good order of the work force as it relates to client expectations, the public, and the best business practices of the canine group. The Field Supervisor will also be responsible for managing the duties, performance, and relations of EDC Handlers.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

    Provide input into the development of employee standards of performances and conduct as well as post standard operating procedures
  • Work directly with clients, assess client satisfaction; identify areas of concern, initiate corrective actions, and raise appropriate issues to senior management attention
  • Work directly with client management and personnel to help meet the obligations of our contract, ensure MSA compliance, and maintain positive customer relationships
  • Utilize best-practice industry knowledge, combined with career-experience, to train and retrain team members
  • Assess and recommend discipline for Handlers on their team, up to and including termination of employment
  • Provide input into the development of employee Standards of Performance and Conduct as well as Post Standard Operating Procedures
  • Coordinate successfully with other MSA departments to ensure reliable operations
  • Implement and enforces employee Standards of Performance and Conduct
  • Implement and supervise the execution of Post Standard Operating Procedures, inclusive of client specific requirements and companywide business practices
  • Review post orders and other details of assignments with employees; ensure understanding and clarify misunderstandings
  • Coach, discipline, and provide balanced feedback to personnel as appropriate; meet personally with employees and document coaching and disciplinary actions
  • Monitor actions of subordinates to ensure attentive, courteous, and professional behavior toward client representatives, fellow employees, visitors, and the public
  • Ensure widest dissemination and understanding of employees Standard of Performance and Conduct
  • Serve as the direct representative of the MSA Security Leadership and Management team to the field, and relay and enforce operational decisions and intent
  • Conduct initial inquiry and investigations into allegations of the employee misconduct or SOP violations.
  • Recommend policies and procedures for maximizing efficiency, effectiveness, safety, and overall performance in meeting client's expectations
  • Interview, select, and perform ongoing training to ensure success of new hires
  • Complete administrative paperwork as required, and maintain records, forms, and reports as necessary
  • Coordinate successfully with other MSA departments to ensure reliable operations

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School diploma or GED equivalency
  • Possession of, or ability to obtain, security license and/or other licensing and credentialing as required
  • Certification as a TSA regulated 3PK9 certified EDC Team, or ability to obtain such certification
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience with civilian law enforcement or military explosive detection handler
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience as an MSA Explosive Detection Canine Handler
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Publisher)
  • Be able to interact professionally with all levels of employees and clients
  • Excellent time management skills; ability to balance multiple competing tasks in a time compressed environment while generating quality results
  • Other:
  • Possess adequate living environment to allow for the proper exercise and training of the canine
  • Have access to reliable transportation sufficient to allow the safe transportation of the canine 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!

SALARY: $78,000 - $82,000 Annually

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
2026-1634409

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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