Description
Train, handle, and care for explosive detection dogs to locate explosive odors and support public safety. Condition dogs to respond to commands and indications, acclimate them to varied environments, and conduct operational searches at facilities, events, and transportation hubs in accordance with prescribed standards and certifications.
- • Conduct sweeps of buildings, vehicles, cargo, baggage, and routes for explosive odors.
- • Imprint, proof, and maintain dogs on target explosive odors using reward-based methods.
- • Cue and handle the dog during searches; read behavioral changes and call indications.
- • Evaluate dogs for temperament, drive, environmental stability, and trainability.
- • Conduct scenario-based training to prescribed agency or industry standards and maintain certification.
- • Keep detailed records of training, searches, indications, health, diet, and behavior.
- • Monitor canine health and condition; identify signs of illness or injury.
- • Feed, exercise, groom, and kennel the dog; maintain clean vehicles and work areas.
- • Administer prescribed medications and basic first aid under veterinary guidance.
- • Socialize and acclimate dogs to crowds, vehicles, stairs, loud noises, and varied environments.
- • Maintain and account for explosive training aids; ensure safe storage, transport, and contamination control per policy.
- • Retrain to correct false alerts, leash or search issues, and environmental distractions.
- • Maintain and inspect leashes, harnesses, kennels, and other K-9 equipment.
- • Coordinate and communicate with security teams, clients, and law enforcement during operations.
- • Prepare briefings and reports; advise stakeholders on search coverage, limitations, and risk mitigation.
- • Follow bomb threat and safety protocols; secure scenes and notify EOD when required.
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
