Also called: DoD MWD Program trainer, 341st Training Squadron instructor
Trains the dogs and new handlers in the Defense Department's working dog program.
At Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, trainers teach young dogs to find explosive scents and bite on command, then pair them with handlers. Some trainers are civilians; others are experienced handlers. The DoD also runs a puppy breeding program, and fosters raise future working dogs.
Mix of military RMC and civilian GS pay; private-sector detection dog trainers vary widely.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
High school diploma, about 3 years after high school. Experience as a military or police K-9 handler; specialized trainer courses.
Ways in: Military, On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Majors to look at: Animal Science, Animal Behavior.
Growing about average. Small field with steady demand.
Low risk for 10 years. Teaching dogs and new handlers detection work stays hands-on.
Classes: Animal science / FFA, Biology, Psychology.
Official data: O*NET occupation 39-2011.
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