K9 Trainer/Handler

K9 Trainer/Handler 3.3 3.3 out of 5 stars Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 Full-time CenCore 37 reviews Full-time The K9 Training/Handler position is responsible for searches of facilities, vehicles, and other assigned areas. This role requires the handler maintain daily training, detailed documentation, and recurring certifications, while ensuring the health, care, and readiness of the canine partner. The position requires strong communication skills, sound judgment, physical capability, and flexibility to work varied hours and travel as mission needs dictate. Key Responsibilities Complete a three-week beginner handler course followed by a six- to eight-week local training program Conduct and document all required K9 training activities Maintain certification twice annually with the training lead or an approved external certifying body Perform interior and exterior searches of buildings and vehicles as directed by the team lead Work in physically demanding and extreme environments, including hot or cold weather and loud conditions Travel as required to support mission needs, coordinated through the team lead Provide daily care, cleanliness, health monitoring, and readiness of the assigned K9 Complete K9 first aid training to support the health and well-being of the canine partner Maintain physical fitness necessary to safely perform K9 handling and care duties Communicate effectively, both verbally and non-verbally, to support training, documentation, and curriculum development Work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as mission requirements dictate Commit to a minimum five-year assignment with the CenCore LLC K9 Unit Provide full-time housing and 24/7 care for the assigned K9 unless on approved leave Provide temporary care for another handler's K9 when required during approved leave Maintain accountability for all issued equipment, including vehicles, kennels, training materials, and first aid equipment Required Qualifications Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS-SCI) clearance with Full-Scope Polygraph (FSP) Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively with security team members and integrate K9 operations Demonstrated high regard for dogs, including maturity, patience, decisiveness, self-control, and disciplined judgment Ability to maintain a professional, good-natured demeanor in demanding and high-responsibility environments Excellent physical condition with the ability to lift up to 80 pounds into a vehicle Adequate living space, including a yard, to safely house the assigned K9 and kennel Willingness to participate in a home suitability review, including interviews with other household occupants Flexibility to work varying schedules and travel as operational needs require Prior K9 handling experience is not required; candidates with previous K9 experience are encouraged to apply Preferred Qualifications A dedicated candidate that can commit 5 years to the program. Candidate will go through a screening process to ensure dwelling is suitable for K9 partner. Additional random inspections of K9 and equipment will be completed by team lead. Working Conditions & Physical Requirements 24/7 care of the assigned K9 units. Working in extreme indoor and outdoor environments. At CenCore Group, we take security solutions from the industry standard to the CenCore standard. CenCore Group specializes in designing, building, securing, and maintaining AI ecosystems at the intersection of big technology and national security. CenCore Group strives to be the trusted and primary source for insight, analysis, and implementation of physical and digital security solutions associated with the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning in the NatSec space. We are currently seeking highly motivated and qualified candidates to join our dedicated team. Cencore Group is an equal opportunity employer. We hire based on merit and qualifications and do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, or other protected characteristics. We offer a competitive salary, benefits package, and opportunities for professional growth. If you possess the necessary qualifications and a Top-Secret security clearance or higher, we encourage you to apply for a position with our esteemed organization.