Law Enforcement K9 Instructor
Overview
The Vermont Criminal Justice Council (VCJC) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Law Enforcement Canine Instructor to lead and manage certified law enforcement K9 training programs across Vermont. This critical role is responsible for the delivery, oversight, and evaluation of comprehensive canine training for law enforcement K9 teams, including patrol, tracking and trailing, detection, and search and rescue disciplines. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in law enforcement K9 training or a similar field, strong leadership and communication skills, detail-oriented with excellent recordkeeping abilities, comfortable working in diverse environmental conditions, and passionate about K9 behavior and training methodologies.
Environmental Factors
Work consists of indoor and outdoor environmental factors, exposure to potential canine bites in training with protective gear. Working in environments with inclement weather. May involve physical exertion and potentially hazardous situations.
Minimum Qualifications
- Three (3) or more years of experience as a police canine handler.
Preferred Qualifications
- Completion of an Instructor Development Course and eligibility for VCJC Canine Instructor certification.
- Supervisory experience and background working with law enforcement or military K9 units.
- Degree, training, or equivalent experience in animal behavior, with strong knowledge of dog behavior and training techniques.
- Familiarity with Vermont law and mandated policy standards.
Special Requirements
Must be able to pass a background investigation applicable to the position.
Total Compensation
As a State employee you are offered a great career opportunity, but it's more than a paycheck. The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation, including:
- 80% State paid medical premium
- Dental Plan at no cost for employees and their families
- Flexible Spending healthcare and childcare reimbursement accounts
- Two ways to save for your retirement: A State defined benefit pension plan and a deferred compensation 457(b) plan
- Work/Life balance: 11 paid holidays each year and a generous leave plan; many jobs also allow for a flexible schedule
- Low cost group life insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Incentive-based Wellness Program
- Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program