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Police Dog Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Rialto, CA

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA · On-site

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

... dog to protect self and others as assigned. 5. Plans, executes, writes and serves search warrants ... Training: High School diploma or equivalent supplemented by course work in police science, criminal ...

City of Rialto

Police Officer Lateral

Rialto, CA

$7.2K - $9.7K/mo

... dog to protect self and others as assigned. 5. Plans, executes, writes and serves search warrants ... Training: High School diploma or equivalent supplemented by course work in police science, criminal ...

Training Without Conflict

Be Seen First

Videographer and Video Editor

Plant City, FL · On-site

$35/hr

Training Without Conflict offers customized dog training for family pets, sports dogs, police dogs and protection dogs. Trainings are available through our online video portal and certification ...

City of Anaheim

Police Officer Trainee

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$88K - $130K/yr

May be required to work with and around specially trained police dogs. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. Qualifications Training/Education: Graduation from an accredited High ...

U.S. Army

Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

The training is in two phases. The first seven-week phase covers on-the-job instruction and teaches police methods and techniques for dog handling. The second phase of instruction is an 11-week ...

City of Sioux Falls, SD

Police Officer

Sioux Falls, SD · On-site

$34.63 - $49.15/hr

SWAT/Bomb Squad, School & Community Resource Officers, Detective's Bureau, Police Service Dog Unit (K-9), Training Division, and many more!! * Candidates may seek out our clear path to rank-based ...

City of Sioux Falls

Police Officer

Sioux Falls, SD

$34.63 - $49.15/hr

SWAT/Bomb Squad, School & Community Resource Officers, Detective's Bureau, Police Service Dog Unit (K-9), Training Division, and many more!. Candidates may seek out our clear path to rank-based ...

U.S. Army

Working Dog Handler (U.S. Army)

Suffolk, VA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.75/hr

The training is in two phases. The first seven-week phase covers on-the-job instruction and teaches police methods and techniques for dog handling. The second phase of instruction is an 11-week ...

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Police Dog Trainer information

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How much do police dog trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for police dog trainer in the United States is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police dog trainer?

A Police Dog Trainer is responsible for training dogs to assist law enforcement in tasks such as tracking suspects, detecting narcotics or explosives, and apprehending criminals. They use specialized techniques to teach obedience, agility, and scent detection. Trainers work closely with both the dogs and their handlers to ensure effective communication and performance in the field. This role requires patience, knowledge of canine behavior, and expertise in law enforcement needs.

What does a police dog trainer do?

A typical day for a Police Dog Trainer involves conducting training sessions focused on obedience, scent detection, tracking, and apprehension techniques, usually alongside police officers and their canine partners. Trainers frequently assess each dog's progress, adjust individualized training plans, and document outcomes to ensure both dog and handler meet department standards. The role also involves maintaining training equipment, staying current with industry practices, and occasionally providing demonstrations or advice to law enforcement personnel. Teamwork is essential, as trainers collaborate closely with officers, veterinarians, and other specialists to optimize canine performance in the field.

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

To thrive as a Police Dog Trainer, you need comprehensive knowledge of animal behavior, law enforcement procedures, and hands-on experience working with working dogs, often supported by certifications such as from the National Police Canine Association. Familiarity with specialized canine training tools, scent detection equipment, and digital record-keeping systems is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and problem-solving skills are crucial for successful collaboration with law enforcement handlers and adapting training techniques to individual dog needs. These skills ensure effective canine performance, handler safety, and high standards in police K-9 units.

How long does it take to become a police dog trainer?

Becoming a police dog trainer typically requires several years of experience in law enforcement or working with working dogs, along with specialized training in canine behavior, obedience, and detection skills. Many trainers complete certification programs or attend police dog training schools, which can last from a few weeks to several months, depending on the program and prior experience.

How much do police dog trainers get paid?

Police dog trainers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the agency they work for. Advanced trainers with specialized skills or certifications may earn higher salaries, and some positions offer additional benefits such as overtime or on-call pay.

How to become a police dog trainer?

To become a police dog trainer, individuals typically need experience in law enforcement or animal training, along with knowledge of canine behavior and training techniques. Certification from organizations such as the National Police Canine Association can enhance credibility, and hands-on training with working dogs is essential. Strong communication skills and physical fitness are also important for success in this role.
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Police Dog Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police Dog Trainer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,233 per year, or $27 per hour.

University Police Officer 1 - Multiple Positions

SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$64K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description


The Department of University Police and Public Safety at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is seeking a full time University Police Officer 1.
Distinguishing Characteristics
University Police Officers enforce all New York State and local laws and the Student Code of Conduct on the grounds of the State University of New York. University Police Officers are charged with full police officer powers under Criminal Procedure Law, Section 1.20(34)(s) and are responsible for the performance of the full range of professional police duties.
University Police Officers assist other Local, State and Federal police officers with investigations and may collect evidence, question witnesses or testify in court in connection with alleged criminal actions.
University Police Officers are actively involved in campus communities and activities including educating community members on such topics as personal safety, risk awareness, crime prevention, alcohol awareness, sexual assault prevention and other community safety issues.
Positions are classified only in the State University of New York.
Illustrative Duties
  • Patrols an assigned area on foot, on a bicycle or motor scooter, in a car or by other means to deter criminal activity by means of presence and witness and to detect fires and other dangerous situations.
  • Responds to calls for assistance from fellow officers or from any member of the campus community to insure that persons and property are adequately protected; and may respond to situations involving but not restricted to burglaries, robberies, thefts, criminal trespass, assaults, criminal mischief, medical emergencies, accidents, vehicle and traffic violations, fires and unusual situations.
  • Reports to the scene of the crime, accident or other disturbance in order to halt crimes in progress, arrest violators, maintain order and arrange for the appropriate care of injured persons.
  • May apply resuscitators, administer first aid and summon ambulances.
  • Conducts initial investigations of incidents in order to preserve and gather evidence; interviews witnesses, complainants and suspects and confers with fellow officers to ascertain nature and severity of situation; reports results of investigations to supervisor as directed and may testify in court.
  • Regulates pedestrian and vehicular traffic. May enforce vehicle and traffic laws in order to prevent dangerous situations from arising.
  • Directs traffic at intersections, crosswalks and other critical points during peak traffic periods; stops persons violating the vehicle and traffic law; issues warnings, tickets and summonses; patrols parking lots and campus roadways; tickets cars parked in violation of campus rules.
  • Controls the movement and activity of crowds at concerts, sports events and other gatherings; staffs entrance ways to prevent gate crashing and over-crowding of facilities; breaks up fights and other altercations, operates screening devices such as a magnetometer or x-ray machine to inspect individuals and carry in items for prohibited items.
  • On assignment as Desk Officer.
  • Receives and interprets incoming communications, including, but not limited to radio and telephone calls, and e-mail messages from officers and other members of the campus community.
  • Dispatches officers to the scenes of incidents and irregularities.
  • Issues parking permits and collects fees and fines.
  • Utilizes electronic devices such as a personal computer, video recorder or camera to record and view information.
  • On assignment to K-9 Corps.
  • May patrol high crime rate areas and shifts with a trained police dog.
  • Gives commands to dog to halt fleeing criminals, disperse crowds and guard arrested persons.
  • May give demonstrations to interested groups both on and off campus, of the uses, effectiveness and safety of police dogs as a law enforcement tool.
  • Responsible for care, feeding and maintenance of a police dog.
  • Prepares a variety of shift summary reports, logs and records covering activities of a criminal or unusual nature and other security related activities.
  • May deliver a variety of in-service training and/or community educational programs.
  • Obtains proper certification and maintain re-certification in a variety of training areas, such as defensive tactics, use of force and firearms instruction.
  • Serves as a Field Training Officer or as an instructor at a Basic Police School, Police Academy or other location as directed.
  • Provides training and education to University Police personnel, other law enforcement officers, government personnel and the public, and engages in crime prevention activities such as, but not limited to Crime Prevention Surveys or Operation ID.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Promotion:
    • 1-year of permanent service as a University Police Communications and Security Specialist 1 or 2;
    • AND, 2-years of active military service with an honorable discharge or under conditions in the New York State Restoration of Honor Act AND 30 college semester credit hours;
    • OR, successful completion of a New York State Municipal Police Training Council approved Pre-Employment Training Program AND eligibility to complete the second phase of such training program that has not lapsed AND 30 college semester credit hours;
    • OR, 60 or more college semester credit hours.
  • Open Competitive:
    • Will have qualified to sit for the Department of Civil Service University Police Officer 1 exam, based on the below qualifications, passed the exam, and based on score ranking, be reachable on an active certification canvass list;
    • 2-years of active military service with an honorable discharge or under conditions in the New York State Restoration of Honor Act AND 30 college semester credit hours;
    • OR, successful completion of a New York State Municipal Police Training Council approved Pre-Employment Training Program AND eligibility to complete the second phase of such training program that has not lapsed AND 30 college semester credit hours;
    • OR, 60 or more college semester credit hours.

55 B/C Qualifications
  • Individuals certified eligible for the 55 B/C program under the Governor's Program to Hire Persons/Veterans with Disabilities pursuant to Section 55 B/C of the Civil Service Law will also be considered. To be considered, you must provide a copy of your letter of eligibility with your response.
  • It is essential that candidates clearly and concisely indicate exactly how they meet the above minimum qualifications in their resume. Failure to show how you meet the minimum qualifications above may result in disqualification and removal from consideration.

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