K9 Handler

K-9 Officer Department: Security Location: Huntsville, Alabama Job Type: Full-Time Salary: $24-$29hr Schedule: Rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays Position Summary The Huntsville Hospital is seeking a highly motivated and dependable K-9 Officer to join our team. The K-9 Officer is responsible for working with an assigned service dog to support public safety, security, search operations, detection activities, and emergency response. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgment, professionalism, physical fitness, strong communication skills, and a commitment to the safety and well-being of their K-9 partner and the community. Essential Duties and Responsibilities • Handle, train, and care for an assigned K-9 partner. • Conduct searches for missing persons, prohibited substances, evidence, and other items as assigned. • Respond to incidents requiring K-9 assistance. • Assist team members during searches, investigations, security operations, and emergency situations. • Maintain the K-9's obedience, physical conditioning, and specialized skills through regular training. • Ensure the K-9 is properly housed, transported, fed, exercised, and cared for. • Maintain accurate records of training sessions, deployments, searches, and other K-9 activities. • Prepare clear and accurate reports regarding K-9 operations. • Participate in community outreach, demonstrations, and public education programs. • Maintain proficiency in required safety, emergency response, and K-9 handling procedures. • Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Qualifications • High school diploma or GED. • Valid driver's license. • Successful completion of required background, medical, and physical fitness evaluations. • Ability to successfully complete department-approved K-9 handler training. • Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-outs. • Ability to meet the physical requirements of K-9 handling. Preferred Qualifications • Previous K-9 handling experience. • Experience with tracking, detection, search, or rescue operations. • Strong communication and report-writing skills. • Ability to remain calm and make sound decisions under pressure. • Experience working with animals or service dogs. Physical Requirements The K-9 Officer must be able to perform physically demanding duties, including running, walking, climbing, kneeling, lifting, restraining, and working for extended periods in various weather and environmental conditions. Working Conditions This position may involve working outdoors in varying weather conditions and responding to unpredictable or emergency situations. K-9 Officers may be required to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts. Compensation and Benefits The Huntsville Hospital offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, which may include: • Competitive salary • Health, dental, and vision insurance • Retirement plan • Paid vacation and sick leave • Paid holidays • Uniform and equipment allowance • Paid K-9 training • Professional development opportunities • Career advancement opportunities Equal Opportunity Employer HH is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants. Pay: $24.12 - $29.05 per hour Benefits: • 401(k) • Dental insurance • Health insurance • On-the-job training • Paid training • Vision insurance Work Location: In person