K9 Operations Manager - Explosives & Cargo Detection

The K9 Operations Manager will oversee, direct, and grow our regional explosive detection canine (EDC) programs. This hybrid leadership role blends hands-on operational oversight, compliance auditing, and stakeholder management. You will be responsible for ensuring that all K9 teams maintain peak proficiency and regulatory compliance while working closely with our internal security teams and client leadership to safeguard corporate partners, major venues, and aviation/cargo hubs.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership & Compliance

• Oversee daily operations for local and regional K9 explosive detection screening teams across multiple sites.
• Conduct regular compliance audits, canine proficiency assessments, and inventory checks to align with state, federal, and company standards.
• Prepare handlers and canines for mandatory regional and national re-certifications.
• Coordinate schedule logistics, event-based deployments, and emergency response coverage for clients.

Training & Team Development

• Mentor, evaluate, and support site trainers and K9 handlers to ensure unified execution of training protocols.
• Direct local training operations, ensuring realistic, safe, and rigorous explosive odor detection scenarios.
• Onboard new handling teams and implement corrective training plans where proficiency gaps are identified.

Program Management & Client Relations

• Work collaboratively within a cross-functional team to coordinate security efforts with venue managers, corporate security directors, and aviation/cargo stakeholders.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to evaluate program health, analyze deployment data, and identify areas for regional expansion.
• Ensure service delivery meets contract service level agreements (SLAs) and high corporate security standards.

Requirements

Basic & Legal Requirements

• U.S. citizen or national.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English and Spanish fluently (Both languages are required).
• Ability to pass a comprehensive 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, including SIDA/TWIC).

Logistics & Equipment Requirements

• Valid driver’s license (REAL ID compliant preferred) with a clean driving record.
• Must possess a personally owned vehicle capable of safely transporting a working K9.
• Must maintain canine housing that meets Nation Security Services LLC K9 housing standards, including safety, cleanliness, climate considerations, and security. Full compliance with all company canine care, housing, and welfare policies is mandatory.

Professional Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 3–5 years of supervisory or management experience in a K9 operations environment (military, law enforcement, aviation security, or high-tier private contract security).
• Proven background in explosive detection canine handling, training methodology, and decoy/scent work.
• Strong familiarity with TSA, DHS, or equivalent commercial cargo and physical security regulations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment in high-responsibility environments.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within team-based operations.

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).

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.

Training & Certification Requirements

• Completion of a recognized third-party explosive detection canine certification (provided or coordinated by Nation Security Services LLC if required).

Travel Requirements

• In-State: Frequent and regular travel is required between operational sites and client venues across Florida.
• Out-of-State: Occasional out-of-state travel will be required for corporate summits, major event deployments, and specialized training/auditing seminars.