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Dog Trainer

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$150K/yr

Join an Extraordinary Opportunity We're looking for an elite Master K9 Trainer to build and lead a first-of-its-kind executive protection and service dog program from the ground up. This isn't a ...

State of Vermont

Law Enforcement K9 Instructor

Rutland, VT · On-site

$79K - $100K/yr

The ideal candidate will have proven experience in law enforcement K9 training or a similar field, strong leadership and communication skills, detail-oriented with excellent recordkeeping abilities ...

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How much do k9 trainer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for k9 trainer in the United States is $68,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the K9 Trainer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a K9 Trainer, you need in-depth knowledge of dog behavior, training techniques, and animal care, often supported by experience in veterinary settings or certifications such as those from the National Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Familiarity with specialized training tools, scent detection equipment, and behavior assessment systems is essential for this role. Patience, strong observation skills, and effective communication help build trust with both dogs and their handlers or owners. These abilities ensure successful training outcomes, safety, and strong working relationships between the K9 teams and their organizations.

What does a K9 Trainer do?

A K9 Trainer specializes in training dogs, often for roles in law enforcement, military, search-and-rescue, or service work. They teach obedience, scent detection, protection, and other specialized skills based on the dog's intended purpose. Trainers use positive reinforcement, repetition, and behavior conditioning techniques to ensure that dogs perform reliably in high-pressure situations. They may also work closely with handlers to reinforce training and enhance the dog's effectiveness.

What are the typical duties and work environments for a K9 Trainer?

K9 Trainers are responsible for developing and implementing training programs tailored to dogs involved in law enforcement, search and rescue, or service work. Daily tasks often include conducting obedience sessions, scent detection drills, agility training, and providing guidance to handlers on effective techniques. The role may involve working both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in challenging or unpredictable environments to simulate real-world scenarios. Trainers usually collaborate with law enforcement officers, veterinarians, and other specialists to ensure successful outcomes for each dog and team. This hands-on, dynamic environment offers opportunities for continuous skill development and career advancement within specialized K9 fields.

More about K9 Trainer jobs
What cities are hiring for K9 Trainer jobs? Cities with the most K9 Trainer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of K9 Trainer jobs? The most popular types of K9 Trainer jobs are:
What states have the most K9 Trainer jobs? States with the most job openings for K9 Trainer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching K9 Trainer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for K9 Trainer jobs are:
K9 Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various K9 Trainer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,607 per year, or $33 per hour.
Director of K9 Texas

Director of K9 Texas

Global K9 Protection Group

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Global K9 Protection Group rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

79th of 111 rated security

Job description

Descriptions/ Job Summary:
Director of K9
Job Type: Full-Time, Salary Exempt
Competitive pay rates based on experience
Global K9 Protection Group LLC is looking for a dedicated and passionate K9 Director to serve as an integral part of the GK9PG Team.
Responsibilities:
  • Cost preparations for re-certifications
  • Ensure GK9PG maintains a high level of proficiency of the K9 teams in the field and advise on all K9 matters
  • Mentor, train, and evaluate certified TSA CSSP-K9 teams and Commercial K9 Teams in their operational settings
  • Provide guidance, assistance, and recommendations regarding local K9 teams proficiency deficiencies and their effectiveness
  • Communicate any deficiencies that are found at the local site
  • Responsible for the transport of explosives when needed to conduct CETA training and re-certifications
  • Explosive inventories at GK9PG sites
  • Conduct re-certification training and be present during re-certifications
  • Ensure compliance of all GK9PG policies and procedures including TSA policies and directives as outlined in TSA guidance as it relates to CCSP-K9
  • Point of contact in the field to provide current and updated information as it relates to K9 training
  • Monthly video audits/ review of K9 Teams
  • Conduct and review monthly CETA and training schedules

  • Required Travel: 75%

Qualifications:
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Must possess a valid US driver's license
  • Must be able to obtain a TSA PreCheck Number
  • Must live within one hour of the DFW Airport
  • Must be able to pass and obtain a CDL Endorsement and pass the DOT (company funded)
  • Complete a Hazardous Materials Driving Course
  • Must have experience in working with and managing detection canine teams
  • Knowledge of candidate training and behavior
  • Canine detection dog trainer certification is preferred
  • Experience in developing training programs and management
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing
  • Effectively communicate customer related issues with operations team and devise ways of improving the customer experience, including resolving problems and complaints
  • Reach across organizational lines to integrate and streamline essential functions
  • Ability to create, to maintain, and prepare records and reports
  • Strong organizational, time management, and analytical skills
  • Must be able to prioritize multi-tasking enable to effectively complete work in timely manner
  • Able to perform tasks with minimal or no oversight
  • Able to identify problems, suggest and implement solutions, and react to change with a high degree of attention to detail and foresight
  • Able to lead others with tact, respect, and professionalism
  • Mentors, inspires, and champions employees for continued growth and development
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
  • Ability to balance team and individual responsibilities
  • Contributes to building a positive team spirit
  • Able to work outside normal business hours including weekends as needed.
  • Candidate must be able to pass and obtain a CDL Endorsement and pass the DOT
  • Hazardous Materials Driving Course
  • Candidates must live within 30 miles of DFW
  • Ability to get and maintain a Employee Possessor license through ATF

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