Dog Handler - Corrections

The Dog Handler contributes to the safe, secure and efficient operation of prisons by utilising canines to conduct the operations of the prison such as searches and responding to identified emergency situations.

What you would do:

• maintain peak health and fitness of the dog
• look after and care for the dog
• protect the wellbeing of the dog at the workplace
• train the dog on an ongoing daily basis
• set up drug run training exercises
• respond to and contain incidents
• visit multiple prisons
• maintain the custody of offenders
• search offenders, visitors and vehicles for drugs entering the correctional facility
• conduct cell searches for illicit drugs

You need to be:

• medically and physically fit

• prepared to kennel an allocated canine at home

• prepared to travel with canine throughout the state at short notice

• happy to use your private vehicle to convey the canine to and from their place of work

• knowledgeable of the Prisons Act, Director Generals Rules, Dog Act, Misuse of Drugs Act, Poisons Act, Occupational Safety and Health legislation, Equal Employment Opportunity legislation

You will require:

• employment as a permanent Prison Officer
• Certificate III in Correctional Practice or must be able to complete within 2 years of appointment
• Canine Training Program (must be able to complete within 12 months of appointment)
• ‘C' Class Drivers Licence
• First Aid certificate (current)

Improve your chances by:

• gaining experience working with or caring for dogs

What you will earn:

Salaries generally range from between $31,000 and $42,000.

Long term possibilities:

• Customs Dog Handler
• Animal Trainer
• Guide Dog Instructor
• Animal Attendant

Watch a video about a Dog Handler.