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Police K9 Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

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SPO (Special Police Officer) license not required * Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to ... screening - K9 bomb detection services Our Relationships: We maintain excellent working ...

Be Seen First

SPO (Special Police Officer) license not required * Bilingual candidates are strongly encouraged to ... screening - K9 bomb detection services Our Relationships: We maintain excellent working ...

Showing results 21-28

Police K9 information

See Springfield, VA salary details

$43.3K

$91.5K

$143.1K

How much do police k9 jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for police k9 in Springfield, VA is $91,514.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,900.00 and $110,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a police K9?

Police K9s are specially trained dogs that work alongside law enforcement officers to assist in a variety of tasks. Their primary duties include detecting drugs, explosives, and other contraband; tracking missing persons or suspects; apprehending criminals; and protecting their handlers. These dogs undergo extensive training to learn obedience, scent detection, and controlled aggression. Common breeds used for Police K9 work include German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, and Labrador Retrievers. Their unique skills and abilities make them invaluable members of police departments worldwide.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a police K9 handler?

To thrive as a Police K9 Handler, you need law enforcement training, a strong understanding of canine behavior, and often completion of a specialized K9 handler course. Familiarity with police radio systems, canine training aids, and tracking or detection tools is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to build a strong bond with the dog set outstanding handlers apart. These skills ensure effective teamwork between officer and dog, enhancing public safety and operational success in the field.

What are some unique challenges faced by police K9 handlers during daily operations?

Police K9 handlers often face the challenge of maintaining a strong working bond with their canine partners while managing the physical and mental demands of the job. Handlers must ensure their dogs are well-trained, healthy, and responsive in various high-pressure situations, such as searches, tracking suspects, or crowd control. Additionally, K9 teams often work irregular hours and must be prepared to respond quickly to emergencies. Collaboration with other officers and clear communication are essential, as K9 units frequently support patrol, narcotics, and specialized teams.

What is the difference between Police K9 vs Police Officer?

AspectPolice K9Police Officer
Required CredentialsCanine handling certification, law enforcement trainingPolice academy training, law enforcement certification
Work EnvironmentPatrols, searches, detection tasks with a trained dogPatrol, investigation, community engagement
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsLaw enforcement agencies, police departments

Police K9s work alongside police officers, focusing on detection and search tasks using trained dogs. Police officers perform a broader range of law enforcement duties, including patrol and investigations. Both roles require law enforcement certification, but Police K9s specialize in canine handling and detection skills.

Do police K9 dogs get paid?

Police K9 dogs are typically considered equipment or working animals rather than employees, so they do not receive a salary. However, handlers and officers working with K9 units are paid employees and receive wages according to law enforcement pay scales. The dogs' care and training are funded by the department or agency they serve.

How do I become a police K9 officer?

To become a police K9 officer, candidates typically need to be law enforcement officers with experience, complete specialized K9 training programs, and demonstrate skills in handling working dogs. Certification in K9 handling and obedience is often required, along with physical fitness and a clean background check.

What are popular job titles related to Police K9 jobs in Springfield, VA?

For Police K9 jobs in Springfield, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Police K9 jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Police K9 job openings:

Infographic showing various Police K9 job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, and 59% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,514 per year, or $44 per hour.

Airport Police Officer (VA & Out-of-State) Lateral ($10,000 Sign-on-Bonus) (PAT & Written Exam Sched

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Dulles, VA • On-site

$34.24 - $54.57/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Compensation Grade:
P10
Salary Range:
$34.24-$54.57
Opening Date:
August 10, 2026
Closing Date:
September 5, 2026
Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.
As an Airport Police Officer, you will protect airport travelers and their property, and serve to prevent crime while enforcing Federal and state laws and Airports Authority regulations.
Airport Police Officer
Serves in the Police Department of the Office of Public Safety. The Police Department is comprised of four commands located at (either Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport). There are two Patrol Commands, the Special Operations Command which has specialty units such as, Special Operations, Investigations, or Explosive Detection K9 and the Administrative Command which includes the Training Unit and Range, Police Records and Accreditation Unit. Assignments to the various commands are at the Police Department's discretion.
Enforces laws/regulations, protects life and property in a geographic or functional area, as assigned. Performs a combination of duties such as patrols a beat, controls traffic, serves legal documents, conducts searches/seizures, apprehends/arrests suspects, processes prisoners, and testifies in court in accordance with Police General Orders. Performs related functions.
For more information about the Airport Police Officer Recruitment Bonus Program, click here:
Police Recruitment Bonus Information
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Attends roll call/inspection, completes activity logs, and keeps others apprised of incidents.
Patrols assigned sector/beat on foot or police vehicle to maintain law and order. Enforces laws and Airports Authority regulations for airside and landside security, motor vehicles, and other matters, executing airport emergency procedures as warranted.
Responds to calls for assistance via mobile display terminal, radio, or telephone.
Identifies motor vehicle violations, such as moving violations. Conducts on-scene and follow-up investigations of accidents.
Identifies and investigates unusual or suspicious conditions/incidents.
Ascertains commission of crime, warranting arrest/citation, and custody in accordance with due process procedures and other guidelines. Conducts searches and seizures.
Facilitates vehicle and pedestrian traffic flow and safety. Provides assistance to Traffic Control Officers when needed.
Serves legal document, including outstanding traffic, arrest, and search warrants.
Preserves and controls crime scenes; collects, labels, safeguards, and transfers evidence.
Provides credible testimony in court, preparing for cases as appropriate.
May perform specialized duties in Police Training, Special Operations, Investigations, Explosive Dog division, or another organizational unit, as assigned.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
A citizen of the United States of America. At least 20 years, 6 months in age.
Be able to:
Complete Field Training Program, obtain certification as a Law Enforcement Officer by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services;
Obtain certification as a Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) Operator within 60 days of completion of Criminal Justice Academy training;
Obtain certification in firearms proficiency;
Pass a comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening and vision, and pass cognitive and physical ability tests, psychological and polygraph examinations.
Ability to analyze data and information and respond appropriately.
Skill in using a computer and modern office suite software.
Ability to work under pressure and maintain emotional self-control.
Ability to speak and write effectively.
For Virginia Lateral Transfer Candidates:
A citizen of the United States of America. At least 20 years, 6 months in age.
Possess current certification as a Law Enforcement Officer by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services OR possess certification as a Law Enforcement Officer by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services that expired for less than twenty-four months.
Must be in good standing with former employer.
Be able to:
Obtain certification in firearms proficiency;
Obtain certification as a VCIN Operator or obtain or recertify VCIN Operator certification within 30 days of the date of hire.
Pass a comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening and vision, and pass cognitive and physical ability tests, psychological and polygraph examinations.
Ability to work under pressure and maintain emotional self-control.
Ability to speak and write effectively.
For Out of State Lateral Transfer Candidates:
A citizen of the United States of America. At least 20 years, 6 months in age.
Must have at least 3 years continuous law enforcement experience commensurate with those of a Virginia Law Enforcement Officer (i.e., respond to calls for service, take reports of crime, conduct traffic stops, issue summons, make arrests) and meet all requirements of 15.2-1705 Code of Virginia.
Possess current certification as a Law enforcement Officer OR possess certification as a Law Enforcement Officer that expired for less than twenty-four months.
Must be in good standing with former employer.
Be able to:
Must be able to be granted the Option 5 waiver.
Must successfully complete an Option 5 Out of State Lateral Program.
Obtain certification in firearms proficiency.
Obtain certification as a VCIN Operator.
Pass a comprehensive medical examination, including drug screening and vision, and pass cognitive and physical ability tests, psychological and polygraph examinations.
Skill in using a computer and modern office suite software.
Ability to work under pressure and maintain emotional self-control.
Ability to speak and write effectively.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associate's Degree (or higher) in Police Science, Criminal Justice, Administration of Justice or related field.
EDUCATION
A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).
CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED
A state driver's license in good standing.
Certification as a Law Enforcement Officer by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice System within five months of hire, promotion, or placement into the job.
NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS
This is a sworn job. The incumbent is subject to one-time and recurring training, certification, and other requirements and standards mandated by the Commonwealth of Virginia and other proper authorities.
Work requires moderate physical exertion and short bursts of intense physical effort. May be required to lift, carry, or move persons and heavy objects.
May be exposed to communicable diseases. Wears personal protective equipment as needed.
Is subject to holdover and recall for essential services and emergencies. May be required to work night hours, weekends, or special shifts.
Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quality, quantity, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.
A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.