K9 Instructor

AMERICAN K9 DETECTION SERV LLC; Moyock (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Constellis is seeking a dedicated Instructor to provide top‑tier canine training and certifications per SOPs. Responsibilities include testing, applying operant/classical methods, and tracking trainee progress.

The role may involve handler duties, maintaining certifications, and deployments to contract sites worldwide. Travel up to 35% and work in varying environments, including fieldwork and training facilities.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience as a canine handler (detection) with a certificate of completion from a credible, recognized canine detection course.
• One year of experience instructing canine teams (in addition to being a handler), in various types of canine detection.
• Prefer canine detection instructor training certification or course with a federal agency, law enforcement agency, military organization and/or an organization with major canine programs.
• Demonstrated experience in solving training problems with detection dogs.
• Must have a valid Driver's License and a clear driving record for the last three years.
• Must possess a U.S. Passport.
• Effective oral and written communication skills with all levels of the organization.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and multiple priorities to completion.
• Problem solving skills with an analytical thought process.
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
• Must be able to lift and carry various items weighing up to 100 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Prepare student tests and evaluations to measure student progress.
• Utilize operant and classical training techniques to ensure the canine can detect materials as required.
• Develop and follow established training protocols in accordance with statements of work.
• Track assigned students and take responsibility for successful course implementation.
• Arrange operational exercises in order to replicate real life scenarios.
• Follow standard operating procedures when conducting and performing operational searches.
• Maintain the cleanliness of training areas, company vehicles, canine trailers, resources and facilities.
• Secure, handle, transport, and account for canine training aids in accordance with laws and SOPs.
• Evaluate and document canine behavior to determine training needs.
• May include Handler duties, maintaining a canine team certification and deployments to contract locations.
• Provide canine welfare and kennel support for all canines.
• Travel of up to 35%, to contract locations worldwide.
• Adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
• Operate company vehicle.
• Work conditions can vary; long hours, weather, and occasional weekends.
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Canine handling

Instructing canine teams

Communication skills

Problem solving

Adaptability

Physical stamina

Education

Certificate in canine detection

Tools

Driver's License

U.S. Passport

Job description

The Instructor will be responsible for providing the best training and certifications following AMK9’s standard operating procedures.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare student tests and evaluations to measure student progress
• Utilize operant and classical training techniques to ensure the canine can detect materials as required
• Develop and follow established training protocols in accordance with statements of work
• Track assigned students and take responsibility for successful course implementation
• Arrange operational exercises in order to replicate real life scenarios
• Follow standard operating procedures when conducting and performing operational searches
• Maintain the cleanliness of training areas, company vehicles, canine trailers, resources and facilities
• Properly secure, handle, transport, and account for canine training aids in accordance with local laws, federal laws and Company standard operating procedures
• Evaluate and document canine behavior to determine training needs
• May include Handler duties, which will include maintaining a canine team certification and prepared for deployments to contract locations if required
• Provide canine welfare and kennel support for all canines as required
• Travel of up to 35%, to contract locations worldwide
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment
• Must be willing to operate company vehicle
• Work conditions can vary from a busy training environment to fieldwork, both subject to frequent interruptions. Frequent work outside and in inclement weather conditions is required, including heat, cold, and humidity. May be exposed to fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals and vibration. Normal work hours are Monday-Friday 7:00 am to 4:00 pm, however some extended or weekend hours may be required, and the work schedule will vary.
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Two years of experience as a canine handler (detection) with a certificate of completion from a credible, recognized canine detection course
• One year of experience instructing canine teams (in addition to being a handler), in various types of canine detection
• Prefer canine detection instructor training certification or course with a federal agency, law enforcement agency, military organization and/or an organization with major canine programs
• Demonstrated experience in solving training problems with detection dogs
• Must have a valid Driver's License and a clear driving record for the last three years
• Must possess a U.S. Passport
• Effective oral and written communication skills with all levels of the organization
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and multiple priorities to completion
• Problem solving skills with an analytical thought process
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment
• Must be able to lift and carry various items weighing up to 100 lbs. Requires standing for long periods of time in all weather conditions. Requires intermittent sitting, walking, running, climbing, squatting, stretching, bending, and kneeling. Requires constant use of hands and fingers to feel, handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and reach with hands and arms

BENEFITS

Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflect s its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.

Company Info

In an ever-changing and complex world, security concerns are paramount. Enhanced security requires education, training, and specialized skills. Constellis provides end-to-end risk management and comprehensive security solutions to safeguard people and infrastructure globally. Our team of strategic problem solvers has a steadfast moral compass and unwavering dedication to creating a safer world. Constellis is committed to the success of our customers and partners. Constellis protects critical priorities safely and efficiently around the world. Operating globally and based in the Washington D.C. area, our employees bring unparalleled dedication and passion for creating a safer world and upholding the highest standards of compliance, quality, and integrity. As a leading global provider of risk management, security, humanitarian, training and operational support services to government and commercial customers worldwide, Constellis' forward-thinking solutions include a range of synergistic services, including background investigations, social intelligence tools, advanced training, logistics and life support, UAV and K9 services, and crisis response mitigation. At Constellis, our number one priority is to secure success for our customers. For more information, visit www.constellis.com

EEOC Statement

Constellis and its affiliated companies are equal opportunity employers. All applicants receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state, or local law.

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), should you have a disability, you can request an accommodation upon hire by Constellis or one of our companies.