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K9 Explosives Handler Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

K9 Explosives Handler information

What are common challenges faced by K9 explosives handlers in the field?

K9 Explosives Handlers often encounter challenges such as working in high-pressure environments where accuracy and attention to detail are critical for safety. Adapting to different settings—like airports, public events, or transportation hubs—requires strong communication with security teams and the ability to quickly assess and respond to potential threats. Handlers must also ensure their canine partners remain focused and healthy, which involves ongoing training and care. Building trust and effective teamwork with both the dog and other security personnel is essential for success in this role.

How to become a K9 Explosives Handler?

To become a K9 Explosives Handler, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, undergo law enforcement or military training, and complete specialized K9 handling courses. Certification in explosives detection and experience working with police or military units are often required, along with physical fitness and the ability to work in various environments.

What is the difference between K9 Explosives Handler vs K9 Narcotics Handler?

AspectK9 Explosives HandlerK9 Narcotics Handler
Required CertificationsCan include handler certification, explosives detection trainingHandler certification, narcotics detection training
Work EnvironmentSecurity checkpoints, airports, government facilitiesBorder crossings, customs, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement, military, security firmsLaw enforcement, customs agencies

Both roles involve training dogs for detection work, but K9 Explosives Handlers focus on identifying explosive materials, while K9 Narcotics Handlers specialize in detecting illegal drugs. They share similar certifications and work environments, often within law enforcement or security sectors, making them closely related but distinct in their detection focus.

How can I become a K9 explosives handler?

To become a K9 explosives handler, individuals typically need a background in law enforcement or military service, complete specialized training in explosive detection and canine handling, and obtain relevant certifications. Experience working with detection dogs and knowledge of safety protocols are also important for this role.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a K9 explosives handler?

To thrive as a K9 Explosives Handler, you need specialized knowledge of canine behavior, explosives detection, and typically law enforcement or military training, often supported by certifications in K9 handling. Familiarity with scent detection tools, safety protocols, and ongoing training systems is essential. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for effective teamwork and decision-making in high-risk environments. These skills ensure accurate detection, safety for all personnel, and reliable performance in critical security operations.

What is a K9 explosives handler?

K9 Explosives Handlers are specialized professionals trained to work with dogs that are skilled in detecting explosives. They are responsible for training, caring for, and deploying their canine partners to search for explosive materials in areas such as airports, public events, buildings, and vehicles. These handlers work with law enforcement agencies, military units, and private security firms to ensure public safety. Their expertise in reading the behavior of their dogs and understanding detection techniques is crucial to preventing threats and responding to emergencies.
What are popular job titles related to K9 Explosives Handler jobs in Virginia? For K9 Explosives Handler jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for K9 Explosives Handler jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most K9 Explosives Handler job openings:

Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) Field Supervisor

Allied Universal® Enhanced Protection Services

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,550 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

77th of 116 rated security


Job description

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

What Allied Universal employees say

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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