"K9 Handler"

Job Description

Under general supervision, the K9 Handler will primarily engage in specialized law enforcement tasks involving K9 operations, in addition to all the duties and requirements of the police officer classification. Duties include conducting explosive detection sweeps, responding to emergencies, promoting community relations, and maintaining operational readiness through regular training and compliance. Additionally, you'll ensure the canine's physical well-being, maintain kennel and equipment hygiene, coordinate veterinary care, and document activities and training effectively. You'll actively participate in tactical support for dignitary protection and special events, provide mutual aid to external agencies when needed, and continuously promote positive interactions with community members through demonstrations and educational initiatives.

• Perform routine patrol duties to deter and detect criminal activity.
• Deploy the K9 for explosive detection sweeps according to department protocol.
• Act as a department ambassador during on- and off-campus events.
• Participate in weekly K9 training sessions to maintain and improve operational readiness.
• Ensure daily physical care, grooming, feeding, and health monitoring of the K9.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

To view the full position description, including all of the required qualifications, click here.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must successfully pass FTO before being assigned to attend K9 training school.
• Applicants must satisfactorily meet the current employment standards of the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) and CSUN Minimum Standards of Employment and Training.
• Must be free of any felony convictions; have good moral character; be a high school graduate or equivalent; meet pre-employment requirements, including physical exam with drug testing, psychological exam, and pass a comprehensive POST background investigation.
• Eligible to be a peace officer in the State of California.
• Successful completion of the California POST Basic Course is required. Possession of a California POST Basic Certificate in good standing.
• LICENSE: CANDIDATE MUST POSSESS A VALID CALIFORNIA DRIVER'S LICENSE.
• Previous experience as a K9 handler with demonstrated ability to handle and train canines or the ability to successfully complete a certified K9 handler course is required.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Demonstrated proficiency in routine patrol techniques, crime deterrence methods, and suspect apprehension tactics. Skilled in responding promptly to service calls, enforcing applicable laws and policies, and maintaining a secure and safe environment for the campus community.
• Proven ability to effectively deploy a trained canine for explosive ordnance detection, execute comprehensive building and area searches, and contribute to dignitary and event security operations. Experienced in responding swiftly to critical incidents, including bomb threats, emergencies, and providing tactical support to partnering agencies.
• Strong ability to positively represent the department at campus and community events, engaging diverse groups effectively through educational programs and K9 demonstrations. Adept at fostering trust, transparency, and constructive interactions between law enforcement and community members.
• Comprehensive knowledge of K9 handling protocols, training methodologies, and compliance requirements, including maintenance of local, state, or federal certifications. Skilled in daily canine care routines, environmental safety management, kennel and equipment upkeep, health monitoring, and prompt coordination of veterinary services.

Pay, Benefits, & Work Schedule

The university offers an excellent benefits package, including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, retirement & savings, tuition waiver, and more. Classification: Police Officer / 8350 / 0. The anticipated HIRING RANGE: $8,069 - $9,468 per month, dependent upon qualifications and experience. The salary range for this classification is: $6,418 - $9,468 per month. Eligible for additional K9 Handler stipend, additional pay for care and maintenance of K9, and take-home vehicle. HOURS: Full Time; 40 hours per week; Monday through Friday. This is a Regular position with a one-year probationary period. The individual hired for this role will physically work on-campus in Northridge. This is not a telecommute position.

General Information

Applications received through July 30, 2025 will be considered in the initial review, and review of applications will continue until the position is filled. This position is sensitive as designated by the CSU. The selected candidate must pass a fingerprint clearance (LiveScan). A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or the continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position. The person holding this position may be considered a 'mandated reporter' under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements outlined in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment. Per the California State University (CSU) Out-of-State Employment Policy, the CSU is a state entity whose business operations reside within the State of California and prohibits hiring employees to perform CSU-related work outside of California. Candidates should apply by completing the CSUN online application. To apply and for more detailed information on the application and hiring process, please visit this link: www.csun.edu/careers. The CSU recommends that faculty, staff, and students who are accessing campus facilities at any university location be immunized against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, and that all individuals who access any in-person program or activity (on- or off-campus) operated or controlled by the University follow COVID-19 vaccine recommendations adopted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) applicable to their age, medical condition, and other relevant indications and comply with other safety measures established by each campus.

Equal Employment Opportunity

CSUN is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination on the basis of Age, Disability (physical or mental), Gender, Gender Identity (including Nonbinary or Transgender), Gender Expression, Genetic Information, Marital Status, Medical Condition, Nationality, Pregnancy or related conditions, Race or Ethnicity (including color, caste, or ancestry), Religion or Religious Creed, Sex (including Sex Stereotyping or Sex Characteristics), Sexual Orientation, and Veteran or Military Status. Our nondiscrimination policy is set forth in the Interim CSU Nondiscrimination Policy. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for applicants with disabilities who self-disclose by contacting Recruitment Services at 818-677-2101.