Security K9 Handler - Explosive Detection (Owner-Handler)

Nationsecurity; Wilmington (DE); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee assistance program

Job summary

A leading security service provider is seeking Security K9 Handlers in Wilmington, Delaware, to conduct explosive detection operations. This role requires handling a trained canine in various settings, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining the canine's welfare. Candidates should possess a high school diploma, a valid driver's license, and be able to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends. Experience in security or law enforcement is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
• Ability to pass background investigation and drug screening.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently.

Responsibilities

• Conduct proactive explosive detection screening operations.
• Ensure proper handling and welfare of the assigned canine.
• Maintain accurate training and operational documentation.

Skills

Explosive detection expertise

Interpersonal skills

Judgment in high-responsibility environments

Ability to work independently

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Nation Security Services LLC is seeking professional, motivated, and dependable Security K9 Handlers to support a wide range of protective operations, including maritime and cargo facilities, stadiums and large venues, special events, and executive protection assignments.

Handlers will deploy with a trained Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) as part of an integrated security team to deter, detect, and respond to explosive threats in dynamic, high-visibility environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct proactive explosive detection screening operations in environments such as cargo facilities, ports, vessels, stadiums, event sites, transportation hubs, and executive protection details
• Operate independently and as part of a coordinated security team
• Ensure proper handling, care, training, housing, and welfare of the assigned canine
• Maintain accurate training, deployment, and operational documentation
• Comply with all Nation Security Services policies, client requirements, and applicable regulatory standards
• Maintain a professional appearance, conduct, and demeanor at all times
• Adapt to changing mission requirements, schedules, and operational environments
• Travel as required for training, temporary duty assignments, and deployments

Canine Responsibilities

• Daily feeding, grooming, conditioning, and health monitoring of assigned canine
• Conduct regular maintenance and proficiency training
• Ensure canine readiness for deployment at all times
• Immediately report any medical, behavioral, or performance issues

Qualifications

• U.S. citizen or national
• High school diploma or GED
• Valid driver’s license (REAL ID compliant preferred)
• Must possess a personally owned vehicle capable of safely transporting a working K9
• Ability to pass background investigation and drug screening
• Nation Security Services LLC is a drug-free workplace
• Ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances and credentials (as applicable per contract)
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in high-responsibility environments
• Ability to work independently and in team-based operations
• Must be willing and able to travel

Physical Requirements

• Ability to handle and control a working canine weighing 50–90 lbs
• Ability to stand, walk, patrol, and work on foot for extended periods
• Ability to bend, kneel, lift, and carry equipment and canine-related supplies
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, rain, and cold
• Ability to work in loud, crowded, or confined environments such as ports, vessels, stadiums, and event venues

Work Schedule & Deployment Requirements

• Must be available to work rotating shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours
• Assignments may include temporary deployments ranging from short-term special events to longer-term contract support
• Overtime and irregular schedules may be required based on operational needs

Housing & Equipment Requirements

• Must maintain canine housing that meets Nation Security Services LLC K9 housing standards, including safety, cleanliness, climate considerations, and security
• Compliance with all company canine care, housing, and welfare policies is mandatory

Preferred Experience

• Prior experience as a Security K9 Handler, Military Working Dog handler, Law Enforcement K9 handler, or private sector detection handler
• Experience in cargo, maritime security, large venues, special events, or executive protection
• Familiarity with third-party explosive detection canine certification standards (including 3PK9)

Training & Certification Requirements

• Completion of a recognized third-party explosive detection canine certification (provided or coordinated by Nation Security Services LLC if required)
• Completion of Nation Security Services LLC Explosive Detection Canine Handler Training
• 8 weeks for non-experienced handlers
• 4 weeks for experienced handlers
• Training location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Language

• English (Required)
• Spanish (Required)

Benefits

• Employee assistance program