Job Description

If you're interested in working with animals or law enforcement as a profession, being a Soldier in the U.S. Army as a Working Dog Handler might be right for you.

Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers are responsible for the care and training of his or her service dog, which contributes to combat operations abroad and installation security at home by providing target odor detection (explosive/drug). Service dogs, generally seen as a non-lethal option for neutralizing a threat, also serve as a psychological deterrent during law enforcement operations.

 
Job Duties:

• Patrol Drug Detector Dog (PDDD) handler
• Patrol Explosive Detector Dog (PEDD) handler
• Health and Welfare searches
• Law and Order operations
• Installation Force Protection and Law and Order support
• VIP support
• Customs support

Requirements

Candidates must first take (ASVAB), which is a series of tests that helps the Army understand your strengths and identify which Army job(s) fit your talents.

Training

Job training for Military Working Dog handlers requires 17 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT) on how to care for, handle and train a Military Working Dog (MWD). The training is in two phases. The first seven-week phase covers on-the-job instruction and teaches police methods and techniques for dog handling. The second phase of instruction is an 11-week course that provides basic instructions on the application of Military Working Dog utilization and employment capabilities. Phase II instructs in basic obedience, controlled aggression, first aid, principles of conditioning, building searches, scouting, detection, and daily care and grooming of assigned MWD.

Handlers will also learn other basic skills, including:

• Basic use of firearms
• Military/civil laws and jurisdiction 
• Arrest and restraint of suspects
• Other specialized dog handling techniques

Helpful Skills

• Ability to understand conditioning behaviors in training dogs
• Ability to make quick decisions
• Patience
• Ability to interact with people

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with federal, state and local law enforcement. Many of the jobs skills you learn will also help you to perform civilian jobs that involve working with animals, and general management positions.

 
This opportunity comes with:

• Competitive pay.
• Free medical care.
• Free housing and leadership development.
• You are also afforded the opportunity of up to $86,000 for college .

Our team is willing to help all who meet, or can meet, our criteria, which includes passing (ASVAB) .

Eligibility:

• Must have an interest in joining the Army.
• 17 to 34 years old.
• Must be able to meet height/weight requirements *See calculator below. ().
• No tattoos on hands, face, or above the neck (ring tattoos are acceptable).
• No history of a felony level offense or DUI.
• No major medical procedures that would prohibit you from service (please feel free to ask specific questions).

Thank you!

James River Army Recruiting Company operates out of our headquarters in James River, VA with recruiting stations in Denbigh, VA; Suffolk, VA; Williamsburg, VA; Newport news, VA.We have over 150 career opportunities within the US Army and Army Reserves, with most offering both part-time and full-time positions! With a competitive salary and benefits, the US Army can help you get real-world experience in the field YOU CHOOSE, all while helping with the financial burden of college. Gain a competitive edge over your peers with a career in the US Army or US Army Reserves!

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