K9 Operations Supervisor

About the role

The K9 Operations Supervisor ensures the operational readiness, welfare, and regulatory compliance of canine detection teams (explosives detection dogs and narcotics detection dogs). Reporting to the Head of the K9 Unit, the role oversees daily deployments, training programmes, liaison activities and emergency responses within an airport or border security environment.

Key responsibilities

• Supervise daily activities of handlers and dogs, plan deployment schedules and coordinate with airport security, customs and law‑enforcement agencies.
• Coordinate training calendars with K9 trainers, evaluate team performance and maintain certification standards.
• Translate SOPs, incident reports and briefings; act as liaison between international supervisors, local handlers and authorities.
• Oversee canine nutrition, rest, veterinary care and kennel standards, ensuring overall welfare.
• Prepare mission reports, incident logs and performance reviews; assist in budget planning and procurement.
• Enforce SOPs and ensure compliance with MOI, ICA and international detection‑dog protocols.
• Lead K9 response to bomb threats, suspicious packages or narcotics interceptions and provide translated briefings to emergency services.

Required profile

• Explosive and narcotics detection certifications (essential).
• K9 supervisory and training certifications (essential).
• IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent (desirable).
• 5–7 years of experience in K9 operations, preferably in airport or border security, with supervisory experience in law‑enforcement or military K9 units.
• Experience liaising with regulatory authorities and working in multicultural, low‑infrastructure environments.
• Strong command of English and Arabic.

Required skills

• Proficiency with MS Office applications.
• Ability to learn and use project or management software.