Lead Handler

Constellis; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,705 - 45,460; Full time

Job summary

Constellis is seeking a Lead Handler in the United States to oversee Canine Teams and ensure cargo screenings comply with TSA rules. The Lead Handler will supervise Handlers, coordinate training, and support canine teams at assigned locations.

The role requires extensive field work, lifting up to 100 lbs, and willingness to travel. Compensation ranges from $31–$33 per hour with on-site duties and a comprehensive benefits package. Security clearances must be maintained.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational environment preferred.
• Prior supervisory experience preferred.
• Prior Military or Law Enforcement preferred.
• Must be able to obtain KTN, STA, and SIDA within four to six weeks of employment and pass background checks.
• Must have transportation to transport canine and crate to/from work location with climate-controlled vehicle.
• Must pass applicable Contract Testing and Certifications within four to six weeks and maintain requirements.
• Must have a valid driver's license and a clean driving record for the last three years.
• Effective oral and written communication skills with all levels of the organization.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage time and priorities.
• Problem solving and analytical thinking.
• Ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
• Must lift and carry up to 100 lbs, stand long hours in all weather, and perform various physical tasks.

Responsibilities

• Provide supervision and training to Handlers and canines at assigned locations.
• Conduct and oversee authorized representative duties related to X-Ray, physical search, and trace detection as needed.
• Perform canine training, audits and administrative deliverables for assigned Canine Teams.
• Manage, supervise and coordinate post assignments and schedules for canine Handlers, including vacation relief for coverage.
• Participate in CCSP related training to search cargo and identify threats.
• Perform Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog.
• Maintain training records.
• Care and maintenance of assigned canine; living at employee residence with inspections.
• Maintain all job-related certifications and required security clearances.
• Operate company vehicle during on-site training.
• Work conditions vary from busy training to field work; travel may be required.

Skills

Canine handling

Supervisory experience

Security clearance readiness

Job description

Position Summary

The Lead Handler will be responsible for overseeing the Handlers to ensure cargo screenings are done in compliance with TSA rules and regulations.

Pay Transparency/Compensation

• Pay rate is compensated at $31-33 per hour
• Moyock rate is compensated at fifteen dollars per hour

Responsibilities

• Provide supervision and training to Handlers and canines at assigned locations
• Conduct and oversee authorized representative duties related to X‑Ray, physical search, and trace detection as needed
• Perform canine training, audits and administrative deliverables as required for assigned Canine Teams
• Manage, supervise and coordinate post assignments and schedules for canine Handlers, to include vacation relief that ensure required coverage
• Participate in CCSP related training to search cargo and identify threats
• Perform Handler duties while commanding a trained working dog
• Handler will be responsible for maintaining training records
• Responsible for care and maintenance of assigned canine. The assigned canine must be permitted to live inside the employee’s residence. The employee’s residence must be adequate, indoor, and climate‑controlled for the canine. The canine living area at the employee’s residence is subject to reoccurring inspections.
• Must maintain all job‑related certifications and required security clearances
• Must be willing to operate company vehicle (during on‑site training)
• Work conditions can vary from a busy training environment to field work, 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. Work hours will be dictated by the customers agreed upon schedule. Nights, weekends, and holiday hours will be required, and the work schedule will vary. Travel may also be required.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship is required
• Two years of documented experience handling an explosive detection dog in an operational environment preferred
• Prior supervisory experience preferred
• Prior Military or Law Enforcement preferred
• Must be able to obtain a Known Traveler Number (KTN), STA, and SIDA within four to six weeks of employment and pass all applicable background checks
• Must have adequate transportation to transport assigned Canine and Crate (inside the vehicle) to/from assigned work location; transportation must have operational climate control
• Must be able to pass the applicable Contract Testing and Certifications for the program within four to six weeks of employment; candidate must maintain the certification requirements
• Must have a valid driver's license and a clear driving record for the last three years
• 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 reflects its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.