Criminal Justice Jobs – Law Enforcement – Canine (K9) Handler/Officer
Canine (K9) Handler/Officer Job Description
As a canine officer you are still a law enforcement official and carry the same powers and responsibility but with the added responsibility of looking after the dogs themselves. As a k9 handler you will be actively involved in searches for hidden suspects, evidence and/or narcotics as well as aiding in the pursuit of a suspected criminal.
The k9 unit is also often called in as backup in potentially dangerous situations or situations that involve managing large groups of people. You will usually work with one specific type of dog that is used for a specific purpose as oppose to the full range of the k9 unit’s duties.
You will also have to keep records, file reports and be involved with the community, much like a regular law enforcement officer.
There is an additional element to this criminal justice job however, that make it a unique and attractive position for many job seekers. You are ultimately responsible for the training and looking after the dog. One dog is usually assigned to you and it is your responsibility to train and look after it.
Canine (K9) Handler/Officer Educational Requirements
You will need as a minimum a high school diploma but more than likely, due to increased competition from other candidates, you will need a degree in criminal justice or simialr to be considered for this role.
Once successful, you will undergo some intensive training from the department to prepare you for the job of canine handler. This additional training is likely to last a number of months. You are also likely to have to start as a standard law enforcement officer for a period before actually moving to the canine department.
Canine (K9) Handler/Officer Salary
As a canine handler you can expect to earn anywhere from $40k – $60k depending on department, experience and area of expertise.
Canine (K9) Handler/Officer Career Prospects
With narcotics and organised crime now on a bigger scale than ever before, there is increasing demand for k9 officers. You could progress to working at federal and state levels and also into more senior, supervisory type roles.
