Lateral Police Officer – K9 Trainer

Position Summary:

As the lateral Police Officer – K9 Trainer, you will be under the direction of the Chief of Police, the primary function of the Canine Trainer is to train the department’s assigned explosive detection canines, provide long term strategic planning, develop long/short term training plans, manage and recruit canine decoys, motivate, educate and develop handlers to achieve a high level of performance and success as well as maintaining relationships with stakeholders and local federal and state agencies

Essential Functions:

• You will provide coaching and mentorships to K9 members, identify and address performance issues, document training deficiencies and formulate training plans.
• You will be responsible for monitoring canines for proper care.
• You will conduct relevant training and assign training tasks to other handlers as needed.
• You will manage decoy activities, including recruitment and preparation.
• You will locate and procure training aids, props and training areas.
• You will be responsible for the disposal of canine training supplies (clothes, luggage, barrier materials etc.).
• You will liaison with Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
• You will assist with coordination of support for Canine Explosive Training Aid (CETA) accountability, escorting/watching decoys and maintaining observation of CETA.
• You will assist with Short Notice Assessments.
• You will attend certifications, Operational Training Assessments, training missions, operational developments and recurring evaluations.
• You will fill regular patrol positions when needed.
• Prior to appointment to the position, you must complete the Port of Seattle Police Department Lateral Field Training Program and probationary period.

Requirements:

• Prior or current Explosive Detection Canine Trainer experience is required.
• Air Scent, Vapor Wake, or People Screening Canine experience is preferred.
• You are at least 21 years of age.
• Be a U.S. Citizen, lawful Permanent Resident, or a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient with the ability to speak, read, and write the English language.
• You possess a High School Diploma or GED Certificate.
• You must have a minimum of 24 consecutive months as a full-time, paid commissioned officer assigned to patrol or investigative duties, and no more than a 24-month break in service.
• You can be a special agent from the Washington State Gambling Commission, Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board, and Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and be eligible to apply as a lateral.
• If you are a Federal law enforcement officer/agent, correction officers, or military police officer, you do not qualify for lateral positions;
  You may be an applicant who currently holds a Law Enforcement Certification and has less than 24 consecutive months experience as a full-time, paid commissioned officer who may qualify for exceptional consideration upon review and authorization from our Chief of Police.
• Must have or obtain Washington State Explosive Handlers License, per L&I rules and regulations.