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Police K9 Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AceK9 / Radiotronics

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Production Technician

Stuart, FL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Our products save Police K9's and the Officer's lives! This position requires a Production ... Hands-on training * Non-Smoking Environment * Simple IRA Responsibilities (but not limited to)

AceK9 / Radiotronics

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Technical Support / Production Tech

Stuart, FL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Our products save Police K9's and the Officer's lives! This position requires a Technical Support ... Hands-on training * Non-Smoking Environment * Simple IRA Responsibilities (but not limited to)

City of St. Louis Park

Police Officer

Minneapolis, MN

$89K - $122K/yr

... K9 (2) 2 bomb dogs, 1 cross training with SWAT School Resource Officer (2) High School and Middle School Community Outreach (2) Police Analyst (1) Investigative analyst non-sworn Dispatch (10) ...

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How much do police k9 trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for police k9 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 are some common challenges faced by Police K9 Trainers, and how can they be addressed?

Police K9 Trainers often encounter challenges such as matching the right dog to the appropriate handler, maintaining consistent training standards, and managing the dog's behavior under high-stress conditions. Building a strong bond between the handler and the dog is crucial, as is ongoing education to stay updated on best practices and legal requirements. Trainers can address these challenges by implementing structured training programs, regularly evaluating both the dog and handler's progress, and fostering open communication within the team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Police K9 Trainer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Police K9 Trainer, you need expertise in animal behavior, canine training techniques, and law enforcement protocols, often supported by relevant certifications or experience in police or military dog training. Familiarity with tools such as scent detection kits, bite sleeves, and training aids, as well as knowledge of tracking and obedience systems, is crucial. Patience, strong communication, and problem-solving skills help trainers effectively teach both dogs and their human handlers. These competencies ensure the K9 teams are well-prepared for real-world law enforcement tasks, enhancing public safety and operational success.

What are Police K9 Trainers?

Police K9 Trainers are professionals who specialize in training dogs to assist law enforcement agencies in various tasks, such as detecting drugs, explosives, tracking suspects, and performing search and rescue operations. They use specialized techniques to teach both the dogs and their human handlers how to work as effective teams. K9 Trainers ensure that police dogs are obedient, reliable, and able to perform their duties safely under pressure. Their work is crucial for public safety and the success of many police operations.

Is there a demand for dog trainers?

There is steady demand for dog trainers, especially those specializing in obedience, behavior modification, or working with service and police K9 units. Police K9 trainers are particularly sought after due to the need for specialized training in law enforcement and security applications, often requiring certification and experience with specific training tools and techniques.

What is the difference between Police K9 Trainer vs Police K9 Handler?

AspectPolice K9 TrainerPolice K9 Handler
CertificationsCanine training certifications, law enforcement credentialsLaw enforcement training, K9 handling certifications
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, kennels, outdoor training groundsOn-duty with police units, patrol cars, crime scenes
Primary ResponsibilitiesTraining dogs in obedience, detection, and agilityHandling dogs during patrol, searches, and apprehensions

While both roles require law enforcement and canine training certifications, Police K9 Trainers focus on training dogs in obedience and specialized skills, often working in training facilities. Police K9 Handlers work directly in the field, managing dogs during patrols and operations. Both roles are essential in law enforcement but differ mainly in their daily duties and work environments.

More about Police K9 Trainer jobs
What cities are hiring for Police K9 Trainer jobs? Cities with the most Police K9 Trainer job openings:
What states have the most Police K9 Trainer jobs? States with the most job openings for Police K9 Trainer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Police K9 Trainer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Police K9 Trainer jobs are:
Police K9 Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Police K9 Trainer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,233 per year, or $27 per hour.
Police Officer - K9 Trainer (Lateral)

Police Officer - K9 Trainer (Lateral)

The Port of Seattle

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Some of what you'll be doing:
As the lateral Police Officer - K9 Trainer, you will be under the direction of the Chief of Police, the primary function of the Canine Trainer is to train the department's assigned explosive detection canines, provide long term strategic planning, develop long/short term training plans, manage and recruit canine decoys, motivate, educate and develop handlers to achieve a high level of performance and success as well as maintaining relationships with stakeholders and local federal and state agencies
  • You will provide coaching and mentorships to K9 members, identify and address performance issues, document training deficiencies and formulate training plans.
  • You will be responsible for monitoring canines for proper care.
  • You will conduct relevant training and assign training tasks to other handlers as needed.
  • You will manage decoy activities, including recruitment and preparation.
  • You will locate and procure training aids, props and training areas.
  • You will be responsible for the disposal of canine training supplies (clothes, luggage, barrier materials etc.).
  • You will liaison with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
  • You will assist with coordination of support for Canine Explosive Training Aid (CETA) accountability, escorting/watching decoys and maintaining observation of CETA.
  • You will assist with Short Notice Assessments.
  • You will attend certifications, Operational Training Assessments, training missions, operational developments and recurring evaluations.
  • You will fill regular patrol positions when needed.
  • Prior to appointment to the position, you must complete the Port of Seattle Police Department Lateral Field Training Program and probationary period. #

Who you are:
Minimum Qualifications:
All the following requirements must be met at the time of application:
Experience:
  • Prior or current canine detection experience.
  • Must have or ability to obtain Washington State Explosive Handlers License, per L&I rules and regulations.

Desired:
  • Air Scent, Vapor Wake, or People Screening Canine experience.

WA State applicants
  • You are at least 21 years of age.
  • Be a U.S. Citizen, lawful Permanent Resident, or a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient.
  • Ability to speak, read, and write the English language.
  • You possess a High School Diploma or GED Certificate.
  • Valid Washington State Driver's License, or the ability to obtain one.
  • You must have a minimum of 24 consecutive months as a full-time, paid commissioned officer assigned to patrol or investigative duties, and no more than a 24-month break in service.
  • You can be a special agent from the Washington State Gambling Commission, Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, and Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and be eligible to apply as a lateral.

Out-of-State Applicants
  • You are at least 21 years of age.
  • Be a U.S. Citizen, lawful Permanent Resident, or a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient.
  • Ability to speak, read and write the English language.
  • You possess a High School Diploma or GED Certificate.
  • Valid Washington State Driver's License, or the ability to obtain one.
  • You must have a minimum of 24 consecutive months as a full-time, paid commissioned officer assigned to patrol or investigative duties, and no more than a 24-month break in service.
  • You must have successfully completed a state-certified police academy granting you a full authority certificate, and must hold a current and active full authority law enforcement certification.
    • A full authority certification refers to a fully commissioned state peace officer, with full powers of arrest and unrestricted enforcement powers of criminal and traffic statutes within the state of issuance while acting in an individual capacity.
    • As a holder of a full authority certificate, you must have completed a state authorized and sanctioned law enforcement training academy for its full duration.
  • All out-of-state lateral applicants must also meet the requirements outlined in the Washington Administrative code 139-05-210 "Basic Law Enforcement Certificate of Equivalency" and be qualified to attend the Washington State Equivalency Academy and successfully complete. If deemed necessary by the department Command, you may be required to successfully complete the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Basic Law Enforcement Academy.

What Sets you Apart:
  • Leader - You understand the gravity and weight of the position of Police Officer and provide guidance to teammates and citizens whenever possible in an accountable and honest manner.
  • Effective Communicator - You possess the ability and willingness to communicate effectively with a diverse population. You also have a strong ability to document instances through professional report writing standards.
  • Analytical Problem Solver - You are able to independently and rapidly assess and solve problems in stressful situations, applying policies, rules and regulations to take appropriate action.

What else you need to know:
  • Background Investigation - The successful candidate(s) must pass a background investigation that includes a complete criminal records check, a polygraph examination, a medical examination and a psychological examination. Background investigations will be conducted as openings occur and include the following: driving history, credit history, arrest records, military records, educational records, and other sources where information can be obtained to measure one's suitability for police work. Successful applicants must successfully complete the state law enforcement training program (Basic Law Enforcement Academy or BLEA) and a Patrol Training Officer (PTO) process.
  • Automatic Disqualifiers - You will need to review our list of Automatic Disqualifiers related to Criminal Activity, Driving Record, Drug Use, Employment and Financials before submittal of your application.
  • If you are a Federal law enforcement officer/agent, correction officers, or military police officer, you do not qualify for lateral positions.
  • You may be an applicant who currently holds a Law Enforcement Certification and has less than 24 consecutive months' experience as a full-time, paid commissioned officer who may qualify for exceptional consideration upon review and authorization from our Chief of Police.
  • Work Schedule - Your normal work schedule will consist of a 4 day a week 10hour work schedule.
  • Take home vehicle: Upon time of appointment to position.
  • 4% pay incentive: Upon time of appointment.
  • Work Environment - You will work in both indoor and outdoor environments in a variety of weather conditions. The employee sometimes works in or near moving traffic and is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles consistent with working near aircraft and maritime vessels. May be exposed to aircraft noise. Will be required to walk and stand for extended periods of time throughout each shift.
  • Overtime Eligible - You are eligible for overtime pay in this role.
  • Security Requirements - As the successful candidate, you must pass a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) background check as well as a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Your employment will be contingent upon obtaining a Port of Seattle ID badge upon clearance. You will also be required to obtain a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) Customs Seal within 30 days of hire.
  • Union Representation - This position is represented by the Teamsters union, Local 117.

Why you'll love it here:
The Port of Seattle offers an extensive benefits package that rewards our staff for their valuable contributions towards the Port's mission. In addition to the summary below, benefit details for non-represented positions can be found on the Port of Seattle's website. If the position is represented by a union, please refer to the " Collective Bargaining Agreement " or contact the appropriate Union Representative for specific information related to benefits and eligibility.
  • Healthcare - Medical, Dental, and Vision Care with options that work for you and your family.
  • Paid Vacation - Just about four weeks per year that increases with tenure to rest and rejuvenate.
  • Paid Sick Leave - At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
  • Holidays - More than ten days per year to celebrate with family and friends away from work.
  • Pension/Retirement Plans - A pension and additional savings plans to prepare for your future after the Port.
  • Getting to Work - From subsidized parking and a low-cost public transit card to alternative work arrangements giving you an opportunity to work hybrid.
  • Parental Leave - Six weeks of paid leave to spend with new additions to your immediate family.
  • Development - From tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments and internal internships, we support a learning culture.
  • Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion - The Port of Seattle values diversity as a source of innovation and strength. We are actively working across the organization to create a culture where all employees - regardless of race, gender, and other identities - succeed and reach their fullest potential.
  • Work-Life Balance - We provide the resources to help you create habits to be healthy and balanced.
  • Mission Driven - We are focused together in promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.

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