K9 Operations Manager

ADP, Inc.; Miami (FL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Nation Security Services LLC in Miami, FL, seeks an experienced K9 Operations Manager to lead explosive detection canine programs. You will manage field deployments, regulatory audits, and client relations, ensuring safety, compliance, and SLA adherence. The role requires bilingual capability, travel, and a strong leadership presence to drive performance across regional teams. This is a full-time on-site position in Florida.

Qualifications

• Must be fluent in English and Spanish (reading, writing, speaking).
• 3+ years of leadership in K9 or security-related roles.
• Strong knowledge of TSA, DHS, and cargo screening frameworks.
• Ability to secure and maintain required credentials and access badges.

Responsibilities

• Direct day-to-day deployment and field readiness for local and regional explosive-detection teams.
• Conduct routine audits, canine performance evaluations, and equipment checks to ensure compliance with guidelines.
• Guide handlers through training and renewal processes for certifications.
• Coordinate safety, screening, and client relationships across facilities and stakeholders.

Skills

Bilingual English/Spanish

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Security awareness

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

SIDA credentials

TWIC credentials

Job description

K9 Operations Manager

Full Time Miami, FL, US

Salary Range: $60,000.00 To $65,000.00 Annually

Nation Security Services LLC is seeking aK9 Operations Manager to direct, develop, and scale our explosive detection canine (EDC) initiatives. This essential leadership role bridges hands-on field management, regulatory compliance audits, and strategic client care. The selected manager ensures our specialized detection teams operate at peak operational readiness while collaborating closely with our internal safety divisions and client stakeholders to protect corporate assets, mass-gathering venues, and transportation/cargo terminals.

Key Responsibilities

Field Leadership & Regulatory Compliance

Direct day-to-day deployment and field readiness for local and regional explosive detection teams across diverse client properties.

Perform routine operational audits, canine performance evaluations, and equipment/asset checks to guarantee full alignment with federal, state, and organizational guidelines.

Guide handler-canine teams through necessary preparations for local, regional, and national certification renewals.

Manage deployment logistics, shift coverage, event security planning, and critical response protocols for corporate partners.

Instruction & Team Advancement

Provide direct mentorship, feedback, and support to field trainers and handlers to maintain high training standards.

Supervise regional training drills, ensuring realistic, secure, and rigorous target-odor exposure.

Onboard incoming personnel and design tailored remediation plans to address performance or proficiency gaps quickly.

Program Coordination & Account Management

Coordinate safety and screening efforts within an integrated team alongside facility administrators, corporate security executives, and logistics/maritime stakeholders.

Partner with executive leadership to review program data, assess operational efficiency, and identify regional growth opportunities.

Ensure service delivery consistently achieves contract service level agreements (SLAs) and strict risk-mitigation benchmarks.

Travel Requirements

In-State: Regular and ongoing travel is necessary to monitor operational sites and event venues throughout Florida.

Out-of-State: Periodic out-of-state travel is expected for corporate leadership meetings, high-profile event support, and advanced training or compliance reviews.

Must possess full flexibility and willingness to travel according to organizational requirements.

Qualifications & Experience

Core Eligibility & Legal Standards

U.S. citizenship or status as a U.S. national.

High school diploma or equivalent (GED).

Fluency in both English and Spanish (reading, writing, and speaking proficiency is strictly required for both languages).

Successful completion of a rigorous background check and pre-employment drug screening. Nation Security Services LLC maintains a drug‑free workplace policy.

Capability to secure and maintain required contract‑specific credentials and access badges (e.g., SIDA, TWIC).

Logistical & K9 Housing Rules

Valid driver’s license with an excellent driving record (REAL ID compliance preferred).

Ownership of a personal vehicle equipped to safely and securely transport a working detection dog.

Maintenance of home canine housing that aligns with Nation Security Services LLC welfare, safety, climate control, and security rules. Full compliance with our strict animal care policies is mandatory.

Professional Background

At least 3–5 years of leadership, supervisory, or management experience within a specialized K9 environment (such as military working dog units, law enforcement, aviation screening, or premier private defense contracting).

Demonstrated experience in explosive detection canine handling, training systems, and decoy or scent‑imprinting techniques.

Strong knowledge of TSA, DHS, or comparable physical security and commercial cargo screening frameworks.

Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven track record of maintaining sound judgment under high‑stakes conditions.

Ability to work autonomously as a field manager while remaining fully aligned with team‑based corporate initiatives.

Preferred Experience

Prior background as a Law Enforcement K9 Officer, Military Working Dog (MWD) Handler, or Private Sector Contract Detection Handler.

Security experience across large‑scale public venues, cruise/maritime ports, commercial air cargo facilities, or executive protection details.

Familiarity with standardized third‑party canine evaluation protocols (including 3PK9 standards).

Physical Requirements

Physical capacity to confidently manage, lead, and restrain a working canine weighing between 50–90 lbs.

Stamina to stand, walk, patrol, and remain active on foot for long stretches of time.

Ability to lift, bend, kneel, and carry heavy canine gear, crates, and related logistics supplies.

Comfort working outdoors through variable regional weather environments, including intense heat, humidity, precipitation, and cold.

Ability to function effectively in loud, high‑traffic, or confined environments such as maritime vessels, sports stadiums, crowded terminals, and public events.

Schedule & Deployment Requirements

Availability to work a flexible, rotating schedule that includes days, nights, weekends, holiday shifts, and extended hours.

Openness to temporary assignments, which can range from short‑term special event support to extended out‑of‑area contract deployments.

Willingness to accommodate overtime and unpredictable scheduling shifts depending on active operational needs.

Training & Certification Requirements

Completion of a recognized third‑party explosive detection canine certification (which may be provided or scheduled through Nation Security Services LLC if required by contract).