Canine Investigator - Office of Special Investigations Canine Division

Duties Description

The NYS DOCCS Office of Special Investigations (OSI) is seeking qualified candidates for consideration to serve as a Canine Investigator (and handler) in the OSI Canine Division. The OSI Canine Division is charged with responding to any situation that may necessitate those specialized skills of the Canine Teams, which are comprised of a certified Canine Handler and Canine.

• Lawfully deter, detect and interdict narcotic smuggling;
• Electronic devices;
• Enhance the safety of all employees, inmates, parolees, volunteers, visitors, and others within DOCCS’ system.

Minimum Qualifications

• Be able to pass the handler/canine physical performance test.
• Ability to prepare comprehensive and well written reports.
• Self-starter, self-disciplined, capable of performing with minimum supervision.
• Strong communication skills, interpersonal skills, and general law enforcement skills.
• Agreed to serve as a canine handler for a minimum of five years.
• Available for callouts during off-duty hours.
• Agree to provide a home environment for the proper care and supervision of the assigned Canine.
• Be available to attend a basic canine school once selected (approximately six weeks).
• Successfully complete the certification program and any additional required training.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

• Two years’ investigative, law enforcement, or public safety experience;
• A two-year associate degree or 60 college-level credits.
• Exhibited demonstrated leadership qualities.
• Knowledge of the subject matter and criminal justice or similar subject-matter studies are beneficial but not required.
• Appropriate licensure and certifications (including being or becoming a peace officer qualified to carry a firearm) are also required.
• The ability to travel is also necessary.

Additional Comments

• All OSI Offices, namely Albany, Long Island City, Wallkill, Fishkill, Groveland, Dannemora, Utica, Rochester, Ogdensburg, or Buffalo.
• Office assignments are based upon the needs of OSI and the Department.
• Travel is required.

Notes on Applying

Interested qualified individuals should apply to OSI by submitting a resume and cover letter by either email (specialinvestigations@doccs.ny.gov) or US Mail, addressed to:

New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision
Office of Special Investigations (Attn: Recruitment & Hiring)
1220 Washington Ave., Building 4
Albany, NY 12226-2050