Job Details

Johns Hopkins, founded in 1876, is America's first research university and home to nine world-class academic divisions working together as one university.

Johns Hopkins Public Safety is seeking a K-9 Campus Police Officer – CIRT K-9 Comfort Dog Handler who will provide sworn law enforcement and security services to the Homewood Campus and off-campus facilities while serving as a certified handler for a department-owned Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) comfort dog. This dual-role position combines the full scope of campus policing responsibilities with specialized K-9 handler duties.

The officer acts as a first responder to high-risk incidents and emergencies while also deploying the assigned comfort dog in support of student mental health, crisis response, victim assistance, first responder wellness, and community engagement.

*This position is a non-sworn, unarmed position within the current security organization. Shift assignments are determined by the needs of the department (assigned after training is complete).*

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Patrol assigned areas on foot, bicycle, Segway Human Transporters, T-3 Patrol Vehicles or any other vehicles assigned for patrolling.
• Actively participate in crime prevention and community policing activities. Respond to routine and emergency calls for various types of service and take action as appropriate to support the on-duty shift as needed.
• Conduct preliminary investigations and collaboratively work with the on-duty shift; maintain confidentiality while writing clear, concise and accurate reports.
• Direct pedestrian and vehicle traffic and enforce campus parking regulations as needed.
• Provide escorts and other general services as needed to support the on-duty shift.
• Work flexible shifts and any day of the week that includes holidays or weekends to assist with operational and special event assignments.
• Use various computers and other equipment as a routine function of this position.
• Perform other security related services for the faculty, staff, students, and visitors of The Johns Hopkins University as may be necessary.
• Provide security for the University's on-and off-campus property, facilities, activities.
• Deploy the comfort dog during scheduled on-campus presence hours and in response to critical incidents, traumatic events, or wellness activations as directed by supervisory staff
• Support victim assistance during sensitive incidents — including violent crimes, student mental health crises, and traumatic events — in coordination with JHPS investigators and university counseling resources
• Participate in campus wellness events, orientation programs, stress-reduction fairs, and community outreach activities
• Other related duties as assigned.

Technical Qualifications & Specialized Certifications

• Ability to house the comfort dog at personal residence; home environment subject to assessment and approval by JHPS.
• Completion of comprehensive canine training course and meet field training requirements.
• A Campus Police Officer must be able to become certified as a Special Police Officer by the State of Maryland and must comply with the Scope of Commission per MD Public Safety Article Section 3-307. Application for a special police officer commission will be made after hire and during the initial training period. The University will cover any expenses related to the application for the commission and permit. Denial by the Maryland State Police of a commission or permit, or subsequent revocation of those privileges, may result in dismissal.
• Must be able to become certified to operate Segway’s, T-3’s, Bicycles, or any other equipment assigned in order to assist in performing their essential job functions.
• Must be trained and certified to carry and operate any weapons or devices when appropriate (OC Spray, collapsible baton, handcuffs etc.) assigned to enable the officer(s).
• Must meet Maryland State Police requirements and investigation for a Special Police Commission and have exemplary background and integrity.
• Must be in possession of a valid state motor vehicle driver's license with no more than two points.
• Must pass a University criminal background investigation; successfully complete a physical/health screening examination by the Office of Occupational Health and Safety, which includes a drug screening; successfully meet and maintain Campus Safety and Security physical requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or graduation equivalent.
• Two year's work experience. Must meet Maryland State Police requirements and investigation for a Special Police Commission and have exemplary background and integrity in possession of a valid U.S. motor vehicle driver's license; must pass a University criminal background investigation; have and maintain a clean motor vehicle driving record (no more than two current points).
• Additional education may substitute for required experience, and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond a high school diploma/graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Five years related law enforcement or prior military experience.
• Prior experience as a K-9 handler or working with trained service, therapy, or emotional support animals.
• Completion of peer support, crisis intervention, or mental health first aid training.
• Background in community engagement, wellness programming, or victim services.