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Military Dog Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

K9 Adoptions Trainer

Ponte Vedra, FL · On-site

$20.48 - $23.56/hr

... Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military ... Maintain detailed training, evaluation, behavior modification and medical records as per K9s ...

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K9 Trainer

Ponte Vedra, FL · On-site

$20.48 - $23.56/hr

... Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military ... ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES Under the direction of the Assistant K9 Training Manager and general ...

Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are responsible for the care and training of his or her service dog, which contributes to combat operations abroad and installation security at home by providing ...

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are responsible for the care and training of his or her service dog, which contributes to combat operations abroad and installation security at home by providing ...

K9 Procurement Trainer

Ponte Vedra, FL · On-site

$20.48 - $23.56/hr

... Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military ... Act as primary training evaluator for dogs in our Provider Dog Program. This will include on-site ...

Dog Handler (31K)

Clarion, PA · On-site

$23K - $97K/yr

As a Military Working Dog Handler, you'll work with K-9 units and be responsible for training and caring for dogs, both at home and abroad, supporting missions and daily law enforcement. Military ...

Dog Daycare Attendant

Westminster, CO · On-site

$16.16 - $16.91/hr

... and training services. Join our team and be a part of creating a better world for pets while ... expression, military status, mental health, educational and career backgrounds, and other life ...

Dog Groomer

Okatie, SC · On-site

$1.0K - $2.5K/wk

Shampoo/Conditioner & More Personalized Marketing to Grow Your Business On-going training ... military or veteran status, gender identity and expression, genetic information, or any other ...

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Military Dog Trainer information

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How much do military dog trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for military dog trainer in the United States is $19.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a military dog trainer?

A Military Dog Trainer is responsible for training dogs used in military operations, such as patrol, detection, and protection. They teach obedience, agility, and specialized skills to help military personnel in various missions. Trainers work closely with both dogs and handlers to ensure effective communication and performance. This role requires patience, physical stamina, and knowledge of canine behavior. Military Dog Trainers often work in high-pressure environments and may be deployed alongside service members.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a military dog trainer?

To thrive as a Military Dog Trainer, you need expertise in animal behavior, canine handling, and obedience training, often backed by military experience and specialized certification in K9 training. Familiarity with specific training equipment, scent detection tools, and record-keeping systems is crucial for effective training and reporting. Patience, resilience, and strong communication skills are essential for maintaining positive relationships with both the dogs and their human handlers. These skills ensure reliable canine performance in demanding environments and the safety and success of military operations.

What are some typical challenges military dog trainers face on the job?

Military Dog Trainers often encounter challenges such as acclimating dogs to high-stress environments, maintaining discipline and focus during complex tasks, and ensuring that both handlers and dogs bond effectively as a team. Trainers must adapt techniques to suit each dog's temperament and mission requirements, sometimes working irregular hours or in diverse weather conditions. Collaborating closely with military units and keeping up with ongoing training for both dogs and handlers is a vital part of the role. These challenges are offset by the rewarding experience of developing highly skilled canine teams that play a critical role in security and mission success.

How do I become a military dog trainer?

To become a military dog trainer, individuals typically need a background in law enforcement, the military, or animal training, along with experience working with working dogs. Certification from organizations like the National Association of Canine Scent Work or specialized military training programs is often required, and candidates must pass physical and background checks. Training involves learning obedience, detection, and protection skills, often through military or law enforcement training academies or programs.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Military Dog Trainer jobs?

The most popular types of Military Dog Trainer jobs are:

What states have the most Military Dog Trainer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Military Dog Trainer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Military Dog Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,348 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Training Instructor (Vocational Training Instructor - Dog Trainer)

BOP: General Practitioner

Mckean, PA • On-site

$63K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Corrections professionals who foster a humane and secure environment and ensure public safety by preparing individuals for successful reentry into our communities.
Qualifications:To be considered for the position, you must meet the following qualification requirements:
Basic Requirements:
Education:
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- education or a subject area related to the position to be filled.
OR
Specialized Experience:
GL-09 and GS-11: Experience that demonstrated a practical knowledge of the subject area of the position and of the methods and techniques of instruction. Examples of qualifying specialized experience include:
  • Teaching or instructing in an adult education program, secondary school, college, military installation, or industrial establishment in the appropriate field(s).

  • Supervising or administering a training program.

  • Development or review of training/course materials, aids, devices, etc., and evaluation of training results.

  • Work in the occupation or subject-matter field of the position to be filled that required training or instructing others on a regular basis.
AND
In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements, applicants must have the following:
Education:
GL-09: A Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR two full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree OR LL.B OR J.D., if related.
GS-11: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree OR three full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree OR LL.M., if related.
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study - education or a subject area related to the position to be filled.
OR
Experience:
GL-09 and GS-11: You must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and complexity to the next lower grade level. To be creditable, this experience must have equipped the applicant with the particular qualifications to perform successfully the duties of the position, and demonstrated a practical knowledge of the subject area of the position, and of the methods and techniques of instruction.
Some examples of this qualifying experience could be:
GL-09:
  • Experience in developing curriculum and individualized learning plans for higher levels of learning .

  • Experience in assisting in developing programs and providing instruction to students from significantly varying backgrounds in a correctional setting.

  • Experience in following standardized curricula and lesson plans to meet the needs of students.
GS-11:
  • Experience in teaching with full and primary responsibility for classroom instruction.

  • Experience in supervising or administering a training program.

  • Work in the occupation or subject-matter field of the position to be filled that required training or instructing others on a regular basis.
OR
Combination of Education and Experience:
GL-09 and GS-11: A combination of education and experience. This experience must have equipped you with the qualifications to perform the major duties of this position as described above.
AND
Selective Placement Factor:
GL-09 and GS-11: Applicants applying for this position MUST also possess the following Selective Factor. In the event that you do not
possess the Selective Factor, you will be found ineligible for the position.
GL-09:
Applicant must:
1. Possess and maintain a current certificate from one of the following recognized certifying agencies as an advanced-to-expert level dog trainer with expertise in animal behavior:
A. IAABC-CDBC - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant OR
B. NADOI - National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors OR
C. IACP-PDTI - International Association of Canine Professionals- Professional Dog Trainer Instructor OR
D. CAAB - Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist OR
E. DACVB - Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists OR
F. PCBC-A - Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR
G. Certification as CBCC-KA-Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers)
AND
  • a. CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) OR

  • b. IAABC-ADT - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Accredited Dog Trainer OR

  • c. CPT-A - Canine Personal Trainer (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR

  • d. IACP-CDTA - International Association of Canine Professionals Certified Dog Trainer Advanced)
AND
2. Applicant must have one (1) year teaching experience
AND
3. Applicant must also have two (2) years of work experience as a lead dog trainer.
GS-11:
Applicant must:
1. Possess and maintain a current certificate from one of the following recognized certifying agencies as an advanced-to-expert level dog trainer with expertise in animal behavior:
A. IAABC-CDBC - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Certified Dog Behavior Consultant OR
B. NADOI - National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors OR
C. IACP-PDTI - International Association of Canine Professionals- Professional Dog Trainer Instructor OR
D. CAAB - Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist OR
E. DACVB - Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists OR
F. PCBC-A - Professional Canine Behavior Consultant (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR
G. Certification as CBCC-KA-Certified Behavior Consultant Canine-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) AND
  • a. CPDT-KA - Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed (from the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers) OR

  • b. IAABC-ADT - International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants- Accredited Dog Trainer OR

  • c. CPT-A - Canine Personal Trainer (from the Pet Professional Accreditation Board) OR

  • d. IACP-CDTA - International Association of Canine Professionals Certified Dog Trainer Advanced)
AND
2. Applicant must have one (1) year teaching experience
AND
3. Applicant must also have three (3) years of work experience as a lead dog trainer.
NOTE: All applicants MUST clearly address the Selective Factor in their resume and, if applicable, upload any required documentation (i.e., licensure, certification, or transcripts) at the time you apply.
If applicable, credit will be given for paid and unpaid experience. To receive proper credit, you must show the actual time (such as the number of hours worked per week) spent in activities.
**Your eligibility for consideration will be based on your responses to the questions in the application.**Education:ONLY if education is a requirement/substitution for specialized experience, applicant MUST upload legible transcripts as verification of educational requirement. Transcripts MUST be uploaded and electronically linked from USAJOBS at the time you apply and MUST include identifying information to include School Name, Student Name, Degree and Date Awarded (if applicable). All academic degrees and coursework must be completed at a college or university that has obtained accreditation or pre-accreditation status from an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, Click Here.
Foreign Education: For information regarding foreign education requirements, please see Foreign Diploma and Credit Recognition at the U.S. Department of Education website: Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.Employment Type: OTHER