Security K9 Handler - Explosive Detection (Owner-Handler)

Nation Security Services LLC is seeking professional, motivated, and dependable Security K9 Handlers who own and operate their own qualified canine 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 their own 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.
• Maintain complete operational readiness, care, housing, and welfare for your canine team.
• Maintain accurate training logs, deployment records, and operational documentation.
• Comply with all Nation Security Services policies, client requirements, and applicable local, state, and federal 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.

Requirements

• 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

Canine Ownership & Compliance Requirements

• Owner-Provided Canine: Candidate must own or possess full legal handler rights to a fully trained Explosive Detection Canine (EDC) suitable for high-consequence environments.
• Certifications & Compliance: Must maintain active, recognized third-party certifications (e.g., NAPWDA, USPCA, NPCA, or equivalent TSA/DOT-recognized standards) for explosive detection. Proof of current certification is required before deployment.
• Veterinary & Health Compliance: Maintain up-to-date veterinary health records, required vaccinations, and medical clearance ensuring the canine is fit for continuous active duty.
• Proficiency Maintenance: Conduct and document regular maintenance and proficiency training to ensure continuous compliance with national detection standards.
• Daily Care & Readiness: Manage all daily feeding, grooming, conditioning, and welfare of your canine, and immediately report any medical, behavioral, or performance issues that impact deployment readiness.

Language:

• English (Required)
• Spanish (Preferred)

Benefits

• Employee assistance program