1

Medical Detection Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Be Seen First

Dog Trainer

Delray Beach, FL · On-site

$150K/yr

Conduct scent detection, tracking, and search training * Manage the dog's certifications, licensing ... medical, dental, and vison coverage * Full employee benefits package * Long-term opportunity to ...

Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

... odor detection (explosive/drug). Service dogs, generally seen as a non-lethal option for ... Free medical care. * Free housing and leadership development. * You are also afforded the ...

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

... odor detection (explosive/drug). Service dogs, generally seen as a non-lethal option for ... Free medical care. * Free housing and leadership development. * You are also afforded the ...

K9 Handler

Miami, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

One to two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ... Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance * Paid Time-Off Program & Company Paid Holidays * 401(k) ...

K9 Handler

Reston, VA

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

One to two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ... Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance * Paid Time-Off Program & Company Paid Holidays * 401(k) ...

Dog Handler (31K)

Clarion, PA · On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

Medical, Moral, Physical: Medically and physically capable, and in good moral standing. * Education ... Detection & Identification. * Law Enforcement & Security.

K9 Handler with Security Clearance

Miami, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

One to two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ... Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance * Paid Time-Off Program & Company Paid Holidays * 401(k) ...

K9 Handler

Miami, FL · On-site

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

One to two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ... Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance * Paid Time-Off Program & Company Paid Holidays * 401(k) ...

K9 Handler

Reston, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

One to two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational ... Medical, Vision & Dental Insurance * Paid Time-Off Program & Company Paid Holidays * 401(k) ...

$45K - $50K/yr

... the scent detection dogs, interns, and facilities are positioned for success. The Research ... Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life ...

$45K - $50K/yr

... the scent detection dogs, interns, and facilities are positioned for success. The Research ... Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Medical Detection Dog information

See salary details

$11

$17

$23

How much do medical detection dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for medical detection dog in the United States is $17.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Medical Detection Dog vs Service Dog?

AspectMedical Detection DogService Dog
Primary RoleDetects specific medical conditions like allergies, diabetes, or cancer through scentAssists individuals with disabilities by performing tasks like mobility support or alerting to medical issues
TrainingSpecialized scent detection training for medical conditionsTask-specific training for disability assistance
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, homes, or public spacesPublic spaces, homes, workplaces, travel
CertificationsOften certified for medical scent detectionCertified as service animals under ADA regulations

While both Medical Detection Dogs and Service Dogs are highly trained working animals, Medical Detection Dogs focus on scent detection of medical conditions, whereas Service Dogs assist individuals with disabilities by performing specific tasks. Their training, roles, and certifications differ based on their primary functions, but both play vital roles in improving quality of life.

What are Medical Detection Dogs?

Medical Detection Dogs are specially trained canines that assist individuals by detecting various medical conditions through their keen sense of smell. They can be trained to alert their owners to changes in blood sugar levels, the onset of seizures, or even the presence of certain diseases like cancer. These dogs provide an important layer of safety and independence for people with specific medical needs. Their work is based on scientific research showing that dogs can detect subtle chemical changes in the human body. In addition to alerting their owners, some Medical Detection Dogs are also involved in research and screening programs.

What are the main challenges faced by handlers working with medical detection dogs, and how can they be addressed?

Handlers working with medical detection dogs often face challenges such as maintaining the dog's focus during long shifts, ensuring accurate scent detection in varied environments, and managing the dog's well-being. It is essential to regularly train and reinforce detection skills, provide positive reinforcement, and create a supportive environment that minimizes distractions. Handlers also collaborate closely with healthcare professionals and must communicate findings clearly, which requires strong teamwork and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Medical Detection Dog, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Medical Detection Dog, strong olfactory abilities, extensive training in scent detection, and certification from recognized organizations are essential. Training often involves working with scent samples, specialized detection protocols, and regular assessments to maintain accuracy. Exceptional focus, trainability, and calmness in various environments are the soft skills that set top-performing detection dogs apart. These skills ensure the dog's reliability and effectiveness in identifying medical conditions, which is crucial for supporting patient health and safety.
More about Medical Detection Dog jobs
What job categories do people searching Medical Detection Dog jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Medical Detection Dog jobs are:
Infographic showing various Medical Detection Dog job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,833 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Dog Trainer

Dog Trainer

VIVIFY Technology

Delray Beach, FL • On-site

$150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.


Job description

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 traditional dog training position. It's an opportunity to develop a highly specialized dual-purpose canine supporting a private executive and company operations. You'll oversee every aspect of the program—from puppy development through advanced protection, service, detection, and operational readiness.

If you're passionate about excellence, thrive in high-performance environments, and want to be part of something truly unique, we'd love to hear from you.

What You'll Do

  • Develop a world-class dual-role protection and service dog program
  • Lead obedience, socialization, and advanced behavioral training
  • Train personal executive protection and facility protection capabilities
  • Develop ADA-compliant service dog skills and public access readiness
  • Conduct scent detection, tracking, and search training
  • Manage the dog's certifications, licensing, insurance, and compliance
  • Coordinate health, conditioning, and long-term wellness programs
  • Work daily alongside the principal and designated security personnel

Qualifications

  • Master Trainer certification from a recognized organization (Required)
  • Proven experience training personal protection dogs
  • Experience developing service dogs
  • Detection training experience preferred
  • Knowledge of applicable service dog regulations
  • CPR/First Aid certification (human and canine preferred)
  • Clean driving record
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality

What We're Looking For

We're seeking someone who is:

  • Passionate about canine development
  • Highly organized and self-motivated
  • Professional and discreet
  • Calm under pressure
  • Detail-oriented
  • Committed to excellence
  • Comfortable working in a high-trust executive environment

Compensation & Benefits

  • $150,000 annual salary
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vison coverage
  • Full employee benefits package
  • Long-term opportunity to build and lead an elite K9 program
  • Opportunity to work with cutting-edge training methods and resources

Confidential Position

Due to the nature of this role, qualified candidates will be required to complete a background screening and sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).


Only applicants meeting the Master Trainer qualification will be considered.

Company Description

VIVIFY is a fast-growing technology company in the clean energy space, built for people who think bigger. We aren't looking for employees—we're building a team of exceptional people who are driven, curious, and passionate about making an impact. Our culture is built on innovation, accountability, ownership, and continuous improvement.
If you thrive in a fast-paced environment where your ideas are valued, your work makes a difference, and every day brings new challenges, you'll fit right in. Join us and help build something extraordinary while growing your career alongside an ambitious, high-performing team.