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Explosives Detection K9 Handler Jobs in Virginia

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

EPS Canine

Veterinarian

Winchester, VA · On-site

$83 - $90/hr

Perform training and present veterinary information to veterinary personnel, canine handlers ... Prior work experience with Explosive Detection Canines Benefits: * Medical, dental, vision, basic ...

Amentum

Aircraft Mechanic I, Armament

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$27.25 - $35.75/hr

Inspects jet engine turbine blades to detect cracks, distortion, corrosion, burn-out, security, or ... Must meet the medical requirements for Explosive Handlers and Explosive Vehicle Operators contained ...

Pae

Aircraft Mechanic I, Armament

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$37.57/hr

Inspects jet engine turbine blades to detect cracks, distortion, corrosion, burn-out, security, or ... Must meet the medical requirements for Explosive Handlers and Explosive Vehicle Operators contained ...

Phenom People

Veterinary Technician

Winchester, VA · On-site

$31.25/hr

We deploy more than 800 Canine Detection Teams nationwide to mitigate the explosive and active ... handlers, trainers, and other stakeholders in regard to injury triage and prevention, as well as ...

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Explosives Detection K9 Handler information

What is an explosives detection K9 handler?

An Explosives Detection K9 Handler is a specially trained professional who works with a dog trained to detect explosives or bomb materials. The handler and their dog team search for explosives in settings such as airports, public events, government buildings, and other sensitive locations. Their primary role is to ensure public safety by identifying and mitigating potential threats. In addition to handling the dog, the handler is responsible for its care, ongoing training, and proper documentation of searches and findings.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an explosives detection K9 handler, and how do they collaborate with other security personnel?

As an Explosives Detection K9 Handler, your daily tasks include conducting routine sweeps of assigned areas, training and caring for your canine partner, and maintaining detailed records of both training and detection activities. Handlers often work closely with security teams, law enforcement, and sometimes event organizers to coordinate search operations and respond to potential threats. Collaboration and clear communication with other security personnel are essential to ensure effective coverage and maintain safety protocols, especially when working in dynamic environments like airports, public venues, or government facilities.

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

To thrive as an Explosives Detection K9 Handler, you need knowledge of canine behavior, law enforcement protocols, and explosives identification, typically supported by specialized training and certification programs. Familiarity with canine handling equipment, detection aids, and communication systems is essential for daily operations. Strong observational skills, patience, and the ability to build a bond with your K9 partner are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate threat detection, public safety, and effective teamwork in high-stakes environments.

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

AspectExplosives Detection K9 HandlerSecurity K9 Handler
CertificationsCanine handling, explosives detection certificationsCanine handling, security or patrol certifications
Work EnvironmentAirports, government facilities, eventsPerimeter security, patrols, private properties
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, military, transportationPrivate security firms, corporate security

While both roles involve working with trained dogs, Explosives Detection K9 Handlers focus on identifying explosive materials in high-risk environments, requiring specialized explosives detection certifications. Security K9 Handlers primarily focus on perimeter and property security, using dogs trained for patrol and general security tasks. The key difference lies in the specific training and detection focus, though both roles require canine handling skills and work in security-related industries.

What are popular job titles related to Explosives Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia?

For Explosives Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Explosives Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Explosives Detection K9 Handler jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Explosives Detection K9 Handler jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Explosives Detection K9 Handler job openings:

Explosives Detection K9 Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Explosives Detection K9 Handler job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Junior K9 Handler

Constellis

Reston, VA • On-site

$26 - $28.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 118 rated security

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

Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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