K9 Training Director & Lead Risk Evaluator

We are an elite private security firm specializing in high-consequence canine detection services. We are seeking an experienced, highly disciplined **K9 Training Director & Lead Risk Evaluator** to oversee our canine operations, run our internal training division, and manage our strict monthly compliance protocols. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in military or federal canine applications, a deep working knowledge of aviation security standards, and the capability to administer monthly maintenance logs compliant with the TSA Certified Cargo Screening Program-Canine (CCSP-K9 / 3PK9) framework. This role reports directly to executive leadership and involves operational, training, and risk management responsibilities. #### Primary Responsibilities - **Monthly Compliance & Odor Management:** Design, execute, and document monthly blind-odor recognition tests for all working canine teams. Ensure all training logs, scent-aging parameters, and alert metrics strictly align with TSA 3PK9 Operational Implementation Plans (OIP) and rigorous third-party compliance auditing standards. - **Handler & Canine Instruction:** Conduct daily/weekly maintenance training, correct behavioral or drift issues in working dogs, and advance the handlers' field proficiency. - **Odor Sourcing & Accountability:** Manage the safe transport, strict chain of custody, and decontamination of real explosive/narcotic target materials or TSA-approved polymer training aids in compliance with ATF and DEA regulations. - **Operational Security Oversight:** Conduct risk assessments at deployment sites, audit team field performance unexpectedly, and ensure handlers adhere to corporate standard operating procedures (SOPs). - **Additional Duties:** Assist leadership with client onboarding assessments, canine selection/procurement, and specialized security operations management as tasked. #### Required Qualifications & Criteria - **TSA 3PK9 / CCSP-K9 Familiarity:** Verifiable experience working within or managing teams under the TSA Third-Party Canine-Cargo framework. Must be capable of immediately interfacing with independent certifiers and compliance auditors. - **Background:** Minimum of **5–10 years** of dedicated experience as a K9 Handler, Trainer, or Instructor within the U.S. Military (MWD/MPC), a Federal Agency (DHS, CBP, TSA), or a major State/Local Law Enforcement agency. - **Certifications:** Preference given to candidates who are certified Evaluators, Judges, or Master Trainers with a recognized national body (USPCA, NPCA, NCPDA, IPWDA) or hold former TSA Transportation Security Inspector-Canine (TSI-C) status. - **Regulatory Knowledge:** Deep understanding of ATF explosives storage protocols and DEA controlled substance handling rules. - **Vetting:** Must be a U.S. Citizen, pass a comprehensive criminal background check, fingerprinting, and be eligible for a TSA Security Threat Assessment (STA) and Secret Clearance if required by client contracts. #### Benefits & Compensation - Competitive salary commensurate with experience / military or federal law enforcement retirement status. - Company vehicle allowance/mileage reimbursement for regional site audits.