AL DOC Handler Commercial Training Lead

Descriptions/ Job Summary:

Handler Commercial Training Lead

Job Type: Full-Time, Hourly

Competitive pay rates based on experience

Global K9 Protection Group LLC is looking for a dedicated and passionate Handler Commercial Training Lead to serve as an integral part of the GK9PG Team.

Summary:

The Handler Commercial Training Lead is the primary on-site training and proficiency resource for Global K9 Protection Group (GK9PG) K9 detection teams supporting the Alabama Department of Corrections (AL-DOC). This role builds and sustains handler and canine performance through hands-on instruction, structured narcotics detection training, and ongoing proficiency monitoring, keeping every team certification-ready and aligned with GK9PG and AL-DOC standards.

The Handler Commercial Training Lead reports to the Site Lead and serves as a coach and subject-matter resource to the site team. This position does not carry disciplinary authority. Performance or conduct concerns identified through training are documented and referred to the Site Lead, who is responsible for any corrective or disciplinary action.

The essential duties and responsibilities of the Handler Commercial Training Lead include, but are not limited to the following:

Responsibilities: 

Training and Proficiency

•    Deliver hands-on instruction to handlers and canines to build and sustain narcotics detection proficiency across all assigned teams.
•    Build and run narcotics detection training schedules that keep each team on track for certification and recertification.
•    Plan and lead local proficiency training sessions and field practice events, using realistic scenarios that reflect AL-DOC operational conditions.
•    Hold handlers and canines to GK9PG certification and proficiency standards, identify performance gaps early, and build targeted remedial training plans.
•    Mentor handlers individually, giving clear and constructive feedback that strengthens both skill and confidence.
 

Canine Behavior and Welfare

•    Assess canine behavior and working drive, and adjust training approaches to correct or prevent problem behaviors.
•    Perform routine canine health and wellness checks, escalate medical concerns promptly, and coordinate care with a licensed veterinarian.
•    Provide on-site behavioral support to K9 teams at the assigned AL-DOC site.
 

Program Support and Compliance

•    Assist in developing, implementing, and updating training standards, policies, and procedures.
•    Assist in monitoring team adherence to GK9PG and AL-DOC policies and procedures, and raise compliance concerns to the Site Lead promptly.
•    Follow GK9PG accountability procedures for the handling, storage, and documentation of narcotics training aids.
 

Records Management

•    Assist in maintaining accurate K9 records and training logs that document each team's progression.
•    Document training performance and proficiency concerns and report them to the Site Lead for any corrective action.

Qualifications

Qualifications and Competencies:

Required

•    At least one (1) year of experience as a K9 handler and/or K9 trainer.
•    Graduate of, or certified by, an accredited K9 training school. Proof of accreditation is required.
•    Citizen or national of the United States

Conditions of Employment

•    Coaches and develops handlers with patience, clarity, and a focus on long-term growth.
•    Leads by example with professionalism, tact, and respect, and earns buy-in without relying on formal authority.
•    Builds a positive, accountable team culture while balancing individual and team priorities.
•    Communicates clearly and confidently, both verbally and in writing.
•    Builds effective working relationships with handlers, site leadership, operations, and AL-DOC staff.
•    Raises client issues to operations promptly and helps develop practical solutions.
•    Produces accurate, timely, and complete training records and reports.
•    Plans and prioritizes competing demands to keep training on schedule.
•    Works independently with minimal supervision and exercises sound judgment.
•    Solves problems with attention to detail, foresight, and adaptability.
•    Available to work outside normal business hours, including weekends, as needed.
 

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment described below represent those required to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Physical Demands

•    Stand and walk for extended periods; bend, kneel, crouch, and climb as required during training and detection work.
•    Maintain physical control of a working canine on and off leash.
 

Work Enviroment

•    Work is performed at the assigned AL-DOC site and is subject to client security and site procedures.
•    Work may be performed outdoors and in varying weather conditions.
•    Regular handling of narcotics training aids under GK9PG accountability procedures.
•    Regular work around working canines, including the risk of bites or other canine-related injury.

Preferred

•    Experience training or certifying narcotics detection canines.
•    Experience working in a correctional, law enforcement, or military K9 setting.
•    Experience mentoring or leading other handlers.

This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications, and duties may be changed or added at any time based on business needs. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.
Employment with GK9PG is at-will. Either the employee or the Company may end the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause and with or without notice.
GK9PG is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, age, marital status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, disability, genetic information, protected veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. GK9PG provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and for sincerely held religious beliefs, unless doing so would create an undue hardship.