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Explosive Detection K9 Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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

Constellis

Junior K9 Handler

Dulles, VA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

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

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 ...

Constellis

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 ...

Constellis

Regional Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

$87K - $97K/yr

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

New

Allied Universal

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 ...

Allied Universal

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 ...

Enhanced Protection Services

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 ...

U.S. Army

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 ...

U.S. Army

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Lynchburg, VA

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Annandale, VA

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Norfolk, VA

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Hampton, VA · On-site

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

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 ...

U.S. Navy

Law Enforcement & Security

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

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 K9 Handler information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$17

$24

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

As of Sep 12, 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 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 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 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:

Explosive Detection K9 Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosive Detection K9 Handler job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,053 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Junior K9 Handler

Reston, VA • On-site

Constellis
Investigation and Physical Security Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Constellisexternal

$26 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Constellis rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
The Junior Handler will be responsible for screening cargo in compliance with TSA rules and regulations. The Junior Handler will be required to complete a 4-8-weeks minimum team training course and certification prior to mobilization to the assigned location.
PAY TRANSPARANCY/COMPENSATION
  • Pay rate is compensated at $26-28.50per hour
  • Virtual rate is compensated at twenty dollars per hour
  • Moyock rate is compensated at fifteen dollars per hour

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Participate in CCSP related training to search cargo and identify potential threats
  • 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
  • Responsible for maintaining training records
  • Responsible for maintaining training records, care, and maintenance of assigned certified canine. The assigned canine must be permitted to live inside the employee's residence. The employee's residence must be adequate, indoor, and climate-controlled for the canine. The canine living area at the employee's residence is subject to reoccurring inspections.
  • Must maintain all job-related certifications and required security clearances
  • Must be willing to operate company vehicle (during on-site training)
  • Work conditions can vary from a busy training environment to fieldwork, both subject to frequent interruptions. Frequent work outside and in inclement weather conditions is required, including heat, cold, and humidity. May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration. Work hours will be dictated by the customers agreed upon schedule. Nights, weekends, and holiday hours will be required, and the work schedule will vary. Travel may also be required.
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS
  • U.S. Citizenship is required
  • Must have held citizenship for a minimum of three years prior to date of application
  • Must be able to obtain a Known Traveler Number (KTN) within four to six weeks of employment
  • Must be able to obtain a Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge within four to six weeks of employment
  • Must be able to obtain a Security Threat Assessment (STA) for Airport Badge within four to six weeks of employment
  • Must have adequate transportation to transport assigned Canine and Crate (inside the vehicle) to/from assigned work location; transportation must have operational climate control
  • Must be able to pass the applicable Contract Testing and Certifications for the program within four to eight weeks of employment; candidate must maintain the certification requirements
  • Must have a valid US drivers license and satisfactory driver record.
  • Drivers license must be compliant with REAL ID standards or possess a valid U.S. passport in addition to a valid drivers license.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and multiple priorities to completion
  • Problem solving skills with an analytical thought process
  • Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment
  • Must be able to lift and carry various items weighing up to 100 lbs. Requires standing for long periods of time in all weather conditions. Requires intermittent sitting, walking, running, climbing, squatting, stretching, bending, and kneeling. Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms

BENEFITS
Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflects its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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