ZipRecruiter

Log In

3

Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CenCore LLC

K9 Handler

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

This role requires the handler maintain daily training, detailed documentation, and recurring ... Provide full-time housing and care for the assigned K9 partner, excluding approved PTO away from ...

Andy Frain Services

K9 Handler

King Of Prussia, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Andy Frain services is currently hiring a qualified individual to fill a full-time opening for our ... Dual purpose canine handler certificate or possess the ability to obtain same prior to commencing ...

Andy Frain Services

K9 Handler

King Of Prussia, PA · On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Andy Frain services is currently hiring a qualified individual to fill a full-time opening for our ... Dual purpose canine handler certificate or possess the ability to obtain same prior to commencing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsK9 Handler JobsFull Time Entry Level K9 Handler Jobs

Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler information

See salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do full time entry level k9 handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time entry level k9 handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler vs Full Time Entry Level Security Guard?

AspectFull Time Entry Level K9 HandlerFull Time Entry Level Security Guard
Required CertificationsBasic obedience and handler training, possibly canine certificationSecurity license or guard card, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, outdoor and indoor patrols, kennelsBuilding patrols, surveillance, access control
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, private security, militaryPrivate security firms, corporate security, event security

Both roles involve security responsibilities, but K9 handlers work specifically with trained dogs, often in law enforcement or military settings, requiring canine handling skills. Security guards focus on surveillance and access control, typically without working directly with animals. The choice depends on your interest in working with dogs and specialized training versus general security duties.

More about Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler jobs
What cities are hiring for Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler jobs? Cities with the most Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler job openings:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler jobs are:
Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Entry Level K9 Handler job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.
K9 Handler

K9 Handler

CenCore LLC

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

$16.75 - $20/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description
The K9 Handler position is responsible for searches of facilities, vehicles, and other assigned areas. This role requires the handler maintain daily training, detailed documentation, and recurring certifications, while ensuring the health, care, and readiness of the canine partner. The position requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, physical capability, and flexibility to work varied hours and travel as mission needs dictate.
Key Responsibilities
  • Complete an initial K9 handler training program, including a three-week beginner handler course and a six- to eight-week local training period.
  • Maintain accurate and detailed training documentation and successfully complete required certifications twice annually with the training lead or an approved certifying body.
  • Conduct interior and exterior searches of facilities and vehicles, which may require working in extreme weather conditions and high-noise environments.
  • Travel as required to support operational and mission needs; all travel will be coordinated by the team lead.
  • Provide daily care, grooming, and overall well-being for the assigned K9 partner.
  • Complete a K9 first aid course to ensure proper care and emergency response for the canine partner.
  • Maintain a level of physical fitness necessary to safely perform K9 handling duties and support the care of the assigned dog.
  • Demonstrate strong verbal and non-verbal communication skills to support training delivery, curriculum development, documentation, and disciplinary processes.
  • Maintain flexibility to work varying hours and days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as mission requirements dictate.
  • Commit to a minimum five-year assignment with the CenCore LLC K9 Unit.
  • Provide full-time housing and care for the assigned K9 partner, excluding approved PTO away from the primary residence.
  • Maintain all issued equipment, including vehicles, kennels, training materials, and first aid supplies.
  • Provide care for another handler's K9 partner during approved PTO absences, as required.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance with Full-Scope Polygraph (FSP).
  • Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with members of the security team and integrate the K9 unit into daily operations.
  • Demonstrated high regard for canines, including maturity, patience, decisiveness, self-control, and a disciplined, professional demeanor.
  • Excellent physical condition, including the ability to lift up to 80 pounds into a vehicle as required for K9 handling duties.
  • Adequate living space, including a yard suitable for housing the assigned K9 partner and kennel; all household occupants must be willing to participate in a home suitability interview.
  • Willingness to work varied schedules and travel as operational needs require.
  • Prior K9 handling experience is not required; however, candidates with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.

Preferred Qualifications
  • A dedicated candidate that can commit 2 years to the program.
  • Candidate will go through a screening process to ensure dwelling is suitable for K9 partners. Additional random inspections of K9 and equipment will be completed by team lead.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
  • 24/7 care of the assigned K9 units.
  • Working in extreme indoor and outdoor environments.

Apply