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Medical Detection Dog Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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. About U.S. Army: The Army, as one of the ...

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Medical Detection Dog information

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$11

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How much do medical detection dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, and 31% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,833 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
POLICE OFFCIER (MILITARY WORKING DOG HANDLER) with Security Clearance

POLICE OFFCIER (MILITARY WORKING DOG HANDLER) with Security Clearance

Department of the Navy

Barstow, CA

Other

Posted 21 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Duties * You will serve as a Military Working Dog (MWD) Handler and function as a Law Enforcement Officer performing law enforcement of federal and state criminal laws, protecting persons and property. * You will conduct investigations utilizing MWD to search out illegal narcotics, explosive devices and apprehend and take into custody suspected violators associated with crime committed. * You will perform on/off leash obedience, controlled aggression, utilizing Military Working Dog in congested areas.

* You will handle a military working dog specialized in narcotics detection, explosive detection and patrol duties regarding all legal aspects pertaining to search and seizure and preservation of evidence. * You will plan special enforcement activities requiring utilization of military working dogs; responsible for safety of working dogs and personnel involved in military working dog operations. * You will conduct searches of vehicles, vessels, aircraft.

buildings, warehouses, luggage and/or open areas. * You will feed and groom assigned Military Working Dogs daily. * You will pursue and detain persons fleeing a crime scene or attempting to resist apprehension.

Requirements Conditions of employment * Must be a US Citizen. Must be determined suitable for federal employment. Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.

Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service. * New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov * The DON does not employ individuals for Law Enforcement Officer positions who have been convicted of a crime of domestic violence on or after 27 November 2002.

You must submit DD Form 2760, Qualification to Possess Firearms before appointment. * You will be required to successfully complete a pre-appointment physical examination. * You must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license, be able to obtain/maintain a U.S.

Government emergency vehicle operator's license, and an explosives driver's license. * Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test (including marijuana) is required. A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if you fail to report to the drug test appointment or pass the test.

You will be subject to random testing. * This is a Mission Essential position. You will be required to ensure organization or facility continuity of operations and/or completion of tasks that are considered essential to the mission designated by a local or command decision.

* This position is covered by the Domestic Violence Misdemeanor Amendment (30 Sep 96) of the Gun Control Act (Lautenberg Amendment) of 1968. You will be required to sign a DD-Form-2760, Qualification to possess firearms or ammunition. * Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.

* This is a drug testing designated position. Required to undergo pre-employment urinalysis requirements and sustainment drug testing. Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test (including marijuana) is required.

* This position is subject to shift work; subject to 24-hour recall and will maintain a 24-hour recall notification number and is required to respond, subject to being interrupted from meal or other work breaks while on duty. Overtime may be required. * Must maintain program height and weight appearance standards.

As a first responder to chemical/biological attacks, must be able to train and wear personal protective equipment to include mask, suit, boots and gloves. * Must be able to read, write, and speak English. You will be required to successfully complete a pre-appointment physical examination.

* Must meet medical standards for Police Officers in DoD 6055.055 and NMCPHC-TM-OM 6260. Required to wear a uniform and maintain appearance and grooming standards. * You must be able to use all police equipment, certify in radar and alcohol detection equipment, field sobriety tests, expandable or collapsible baton, and obtain other certifications required to accomplish law enforcement duties.

* You must carry firearms. You must meet the qualifications and be certified to carry a firearm. You will need to maintain firearm proficiency.

* Incumbent must pass a sanctioned agility test and medical evaluation and pass periodic re-test as required. Failure to meet conditions of employment may result in disciplinary action or termination. * Must successfully complete the first available Working Dog Course at Lackland AFB, TX and maintain certification with Working Dog.

* Must have a spleen. * This position does not meet the definition of law enforcement officer (LEO) and is excluded from coverage as LEO for purposes of the Federal Employment Retirement System-Base Annuity IAW 5 CFR, PArt 842, Subpart H. Qualifications GS- 08: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-07 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector.

Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Preparing and/or conducting demonstrations in reference to Military Working Dog handling; ensuring that Military Working Dog has training necessary to perform all patrol/narcotic/explosive functions involved with police and preliminary investigative work; conducting searches of vehicles, vessels, aircraft, buildings, warehouses, luggage and/or open areas; and performing on/off leash obedience, and controlled aggression, utilizing Military Working Dog in congested areas. GS- 07: Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-06 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: Assisting in the preparation and/or conducting of demonstrations in reference to Military Working Dog handling; conducting searches of vehicles, vessels, aircraft, buildings, warehouses, luggage and/or open areas; and performing on/off leash obedience, and controlled aggression, utilizing Military Working Dogs.

Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: Additional Conditions of Employment: You must complete a designated USMC Police Officer Course of Instruction and meet all certification requirements, weapons certifications, CPR, AED, DoD and Joint Training Regulations, etc. Training may be conducted at a regional training facility. You will be required to wear personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, coveralls, glasses, goggles, respirators and safety shoes continuously for the duration of the work shift.

You must be able to use all police equipment, certify in the use of radar detection and alcohol detection equipment, field sobriety tests, expandable or collapsible baton and obtain other certifications required to accomplish the duties of a law enforcement officer. If conducting law enforcement operations in navigable waters, incumbent must attend the Inland Boat Operator Training Program at FLETC or similar course. You must be eligible to meet established standards for transport of explosive materials related to the performance of their duties to include: passing an explosive material physical, completion of annual explosive/hazardous material training and obtain/maintain, if applicable, appropriate commercial hazard license.

This position may require travel from normal duty station to CONUS and OCONUS and may include remote or isolated sites. You must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods of time. You will be required to complete training, obtain, and maintain a government credit card for travel and travel-related purchases.

Education **No substitution of education or training may be made for the required specialized experience.** Additional information This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program. Several vacancies may be filled. A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.

Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: . Veteran's preference does not apply when selecting individuals under this specific hiring authority.

However, if you claim veteran's preference, you will be required to submit supporting documentation with your application as described in the Required Documents section below.


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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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