25/08/2026
We’re looking for a dedicated K9 Unit Supervisor in Paarl who thrives under pressure, ensures operational excellence, and is passionate about dog welfare, handler development and delivering outstanding results.
Sound like you? This opportunity was made for YOU!
Website: www.vetusschola.co.za
Email CV and qualifications to [email protected]
See full job spec below:
Reports To
K9 Unit Manager / Operations Manager
Key Responsibilities
Operational Supervision
* Supervise and coordinate daily K9 operations.
* Allocate handlers and dogs to operational duties.
* Monitor performance and operational effectiveness of K9 teams.
* Ensure compliance with client requirements, company policies, and legal regulations.
* Conduct regular inspections of K9 deployment sites.
Personnel Management
* Supervise K9 handlers, kennel staff, and support personnel.
* Conduct performance evaluations and provide coaching where required.
* Manage attendance, leave, shift rosters, and discipline.
* Ensure staff maintain required certifications and registrations.
Dog Welfare and Management
* Ensure all dogs receive proper care, feeding, exercise, and veterinary attention.
* Monitor the health and welfare of all operational dogs.
* Maintain accurate records of vaccinations, treatments, and veterinary visits.
* Ensure kennel facilities meet welfare and hygiene standards.
Training and Development
* Plan and supervise ongoing training for handlers and dogs.
* Conduct operational assessments and proficiency evaluations.
* Identify training deficiencies and implement corrective action plans.
* Ensure compliance with SASSETA, PSIRA, and company training standards where applicable.
Equipment and Asset Control
* Ensure all K9 equipment is serviceable and operational.
* Conduct inspections of vehicles, kennels, and training equipment.
* Manage inventory and report shortages or maintenance requirements.
* Ensure proper storage and accountability of equipment.
Health, Safety and Compliance
* Enforce Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
* Investigate incidents, injuries, dog bites, escapes, and operational failures.
* Ensure compliance with company SOPs and risk management procedures.
* Maintain emergency response readiness.
Administration and Reporting
* Compile daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports.
* Maintain records of deployments, training, incidents, and inspections.
* Submit performance reports to management.
* Maintain all required documentation and registers.
Minimum Requirements:
Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.
PSIRA registered
Qualified DH4 K9 Handler with operational experience.
Supervisory or leadership experience in a K9 environment.
Valid driver's licence.
Ability to compile reports and maintain records.
Knowledge and Skills
K9 handling and deployment procedures.
* Security operations management.
* Staff supervision and leadership.
* Incident investigation and report writing.
* Occupational Health and Safety requirements.
* Communication and problem-solving skills.
* Training and assessment of K9 teams.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
* Operational readiness of K9 teams.
* Compliance with training schedules.
* Dog health and welfare standards maintained.
* Reduction in operational incidents and equipment failures.
* Accurate and timely reporting.
* Compliance with company, PSIRA, and client requirements.
* Effective supervision and development of K9 personnel.
The K9 Unit Supervisor has authority to:
* Allocate and deploy K9 resources.
* Conduct inspections and audits.
* Recommend disciplinary action.
* Remove unsafe personnel, dogs, or equipment from service.
* Implement corrective training and operational measures.
Working Conditions
* Outdoor operational and training environments.
* Shift work, weekends, and public holidays as required.
* Exposure to various weather conditions.
* Frequent interaction with working dogs and security personnel.