Security K9 Training Team Lead - Full Time

PURPOSE: Lead the training and implementation of explosives and person borne firearms detection teams and assist with acquisition of canines. Assist with leading MOA K9 officers, demonstrations to external agencies, and sustainment of the MOA K9 unit.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES

• Coordinate and conduct all explosive and firearm detection training for the MOA K9 department.
• Be a subject matter expert on detection dog programs and ensure compliance with all ATF legislation and safeguard training aids on a day-to-day basis.
• Review and provide guidance on the purchase of explosives and firearms for training aids and training methods by analyzing training data and results. 202
• Maintain accurate records of field training program and officer training documentation.

• Advise and procure new canines for the department.
• Research and make recommendations on new opportunities for training and improvement of the K9 Unit.
• Cultivate and maintain relationships with outside Law Enforcement Explosives Ordinance Detection Dog (EODD) teams utilizing training aids.
• Maintain the safety and cleanliness of the facility and support handlers with canine care and grooming.

• Follow Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and Minnesota state regulations when utilizing training aids that contain firearms or explosives.
• Participate in various public relations activities, including handling and presenting the canine during meet and greets, social media events, and special events.
• Conduct roll calls for K9 and other Security staff and regularly train on policies and procedures, counter terrorism, and threat awareness.
• Partner with external agencies on best practices, lead, and train canines in USPCA certification.
• Assist with leading K9 handlers by motivating, scheduling and coaching when necessary.
• Monitor and patrol to minimize risk at MOA as well as detect and prevent explosives and firearms.
• Lead and participate in Mall of America detection sweeps as well as offsite sweeps when contracted.
• Maintain the mental and physical health of the canine while on and off duty, including feeding, cleaning, exercising, housing and keep records of all care and feeding of the canine.
• Regularly carry equipment including handcuffs, pepper spray, tactical baton, and a conducted electrical weapon (CEW).

• Order supplies as needed and submit to supervisor for approval.

• Complete and maintain documentation of all certifications, training logs, and paperwork.
• Ensure the enforcement of established policies and procedures.
• Work alongside and may assist with supervising of Risk Assessment and Mitigation (RAM) unit when directed.
• Provide outstanding internal and external guest service.
• Work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, special events, high volume days, mandatory overtime and short notice special events.

• Additional duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must possess a permit to concealed carry a firearm, or able to obtain a permit to carry.
• High School diploma or equivalent required, post-secondary education preferred.
• Previous K9 handling experience and experience with counter terrorism orientated security measures.
• Pass an ATF background check and obtain clearance to access explosive materials through the ATF.
• Pass and recertify annually USPCA or similar certification course with the Mall of America K9 partner.
• Must withstand a full five-second exposure to a CEW, unless previously exposed..

• Strong time management, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent listening and verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic knowledge of federal, state and local law preferred.
• Previous leadership and training experience preferred.

PHYSICAL JOB REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the duties of this job, the team member will frequently be required to speak and listen to guests in order to understand their needs and communicate a solution. Team member must also possess a level of hearing that will continuously allow them to be aware of their surroundings and recognize when a guest needs their attention. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Team members are required to be able to tolerate multiple sensory stimuli at once while performing their duties. These stimuli may include: loud auditory/noise, smells/olfactory, bright lights, colors, motion, and other visual stimuli.

• Walk: Frequently, about 75% of the time
• Stand: Frequently, about 75% of the time
• Sit: Infrequently, about 25% of the time
• Bend/Stoop: Rarely, about 10% of the time
• Kneel/Squat: Rarely, about 10% of the time
• Climb: Rarely, about 5% of the time
• Lift/Carry
  
  
  
  • Less than 10lb: Occasionally, about 35% of the time
  • 11-25lb: Continuously, about 100% of the time
  • 26-50lb: Rarely, about 5% of the time
  • 50-100lb: Rarely, about 5% of the time
  
  
  
  
• Push/Pull: Rarely, about 5% of the time
• Twist: Infrequently, about 30% of the time
• Reach above shoulders: Rarely, about 5% of the time
• Reach at or below shoulders: Infrequently, about 15% of the time
• Reach at/below waist: Rarely, about 10% of the time
• Dexterity: Continuously, about 90% of the time
  
  
  
  • Use of both hands is required to perform duties and maintain safety standards
  
  
  
  

Mall of America is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment or discrimination. All employment decisions are to be made without regard to race, color, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, genetic information, pregnancy, national origin, citizenship, physical/mental disability, military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.