Police Officer - K9 Trainer (Lateral)

About the role

As the lateral Police Officer – K9 Trainer, you will be under the direction of the Chief of Police, the primary function of the Canine Trainer is to train the department’s assigned explosive detection canines, provide long term strategic planning, develop long/short term training plans, manage and recruit canine decoys, motivate, educate and develop handlers to achieve a high level of performance and success as well as maintaining relationships with stakeholders and local federal and state agencies.

• Provide coaching and mentorships to K9 members
• Identify and address performance issues
• Document training deficiencies and formulate training plans
• Monitor canines for proper care
• Conduct relevant training and assign training tasks to other handlers as needed
• Manage decoy activities, including recruitment and preparation
• Locate and procure training aids, props and training areas
• Be responsible for the disposal of canine training supplies (clothes, luggage, barrier materials etc.)
• Liaison with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
• Assist with coordination of support for Canine Explosive Training Aid (CETA) accountability, escorting/watching decoys and maintaining observation of CETA
• Assist with Short Notice Assessments
• Attend certifications, Operational Training Assessments, training missions, operational developments and recurring evaluations
• Fill regular patrol positions when needed

Who you are:

• Experience: Prior or current canine detection experience. Must have or ability to obtain Washington State Explosive Handlers License, per L&I rules and regulations. Desired Air Scent, Vapor Wake, or People Screening Canine experience.
• Qualifications: At least 21 years of age, U.S. Citizen, lawful Permanent Resident, or a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipient. Ability to speak, read, and write the English language. Possess a High School Diploma or GED Certificate. Valid Washington State Driver’s License, or the ability to obtain one. Minimum of 24 consecutive months as a full-time, paid commissioned officer assigned to patrol or investigative duties, and no more than a 24-month break in service. Full authority certificate holder with a minimum of 24 consecutive months as a full-time, paid commissioned officer assigned to patrol or investigative duties, and no more than a 24-month break in service. Must have successfully completed a state-certified police academy granting you a full authority certificate, and must hold a current and active full authority law enforcement certification. Must meet requirements outlined in the Washington Administrative code 139-05-210 "Basic Law Enforcement Certificate of Equivalency" and be qualified to attend the Washington State Equivalency Academy and successfully complete.

What sets you apart:

• Leader: Understand the gravity and weight of the position of Police Officer and provide guidance to teammates and citizens whenever possible in an accountable and honest manner.
• Effective Communicator: Possess the ability and willingness to communicate effectively with a diverse population. Strong ability to document instances through professional report writing standards.
• Analytical Problem Solver: Able to independently and rapidly assess and solve problems in stressful situations, applying policies, rules and regulations to take appropriate action.

What else you need to know:

• Background Investigation: Complete criminal records check, a polygraph examination, a medical examination and a psychological examination.
• Automatic Disqualifiers: Current Federal law enforcement officer/agent, correction officers, or military police officer, you do not qualify for lateral positions.
• Work Schedule: Normal work schedule consists of a 4 day a week 10-hour work schedule.
• Take home vehicle: Upon time of appointment to position.
• 4% pay incentive: Upon time of appointment.
• Overtime Eligible: You are eligible for overtime pay in this role.
• Security Requirements: TSA background check as well as a criminal history background check with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
• Union Representation: This position is represented by the Teamsters union, Local 117.

Why you'll love it here:

• Healthcare: Medical, Dental, and Vision Care with options that work for you and your family.
• Paid Vacation: Just about four weeks per year that increases with tenure to rest and rejuvenate.
• Paid Sick Leave: At least one hour of sick leave for every 40 hours worked.
• Holidays: More than ten days per year to celebrate with family and friends away from work.
• Pension/Retirement Plans: A pension and additional savings plans to prepare for your future after the Port's mission.
• Get to Work: From subsidized parking and a low-cost public transit card to alternative work arrangements giving you an opportunity to work hybrid.
• Parental Leave: Six weeks of paid leave to spend with new additions to your immediate family.
• Development: From tuition reimbursement, training, stretch assignments and internal internships, we support a learning culture.
• Ethics, Diversity, and Inclusion: The Port of Seattle values diversity as a source of innovation and strength. We are actively working across the organization to create a culture where all employees – regardless of race, gender, and other identities – succeed and reach their fullest potential.
• Mission Driven: We are focused together in promoting economic opportunities and quality of life in the region by advancing trade, travel, commerce, and job creation in an equitable, accountable, and environmentally responsible manner.