Detector Dog Trainer

About the Role

The Detector Dog Trainer position is a permanent full-time role based in Māngere, Auckland. The salary range for this role is between $86,731 and $92,714 yearly, depending on skills and experience. The main responsibility is to provide expert training and support to Border Clearance Services staff so that detector dog handlers achieve and maintain proficiency needed to excel in their duties.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver technical instruction, advice, and guidance to management and operational staff.
• Mentor and coach Detector Dog Handlers during operational activities.
• Collaborate with the Detector Dog Training and Leadership Teams through open communication and teamwork.
• Organize and conduct validation courses and formal evaluations to sustain and elevate handler competencies.
• Create and update training materials, competency assessments, manuals, and documentation.
• Travel to various MPI locations nationwide to provide consistent training and support services.

Candidate Profile

The ideal applicant is an effective communicator, both verbally and in writing, ideally possessing an adult teaching qualification alongside experience or qualifications in animal behavior. This position demands patience, tact, diplomacy, and comfort working amidst ambiguity. Core duties encompass training both personnel and canines, so experience in working dog training or a related government detector dog program is highly beneficial.

• Sound knowledge of detector dog handling, canine behavior, and welfare standards.
• Experience in training, handling, and deployment of working dogs.
• Ability to perform effectively under work pressure.
• Exceptional communication skills with the capacity to influence and engage.
• Strong interpersonal abilities for teamwork and collaboration.

Applicants who do not meet every requirement are encouraged to apply, as development opportunities exist.

About the Team

The successful candidate will be stationed at the MPI Centre in Mangere, working alongside fellow trainers to support dog handlers across New Zealand. The kennel team comprises a Team Leader, dog care specialists, and approximately 60 detector dogs.

About MPI

MPI plays a crucial role in enhancing the food and fibre sector's export opportunities, boosting productivity, guaranteeing food safety, promoting sustainable resource use, and protecting New Zealand from biological threats.

Benefits

• Option to purchase additional annual leave.
• Annual wellness payment.
• Paid eye tests twice yearly and financial support toward corrective eyewear.
• Career growth and internal advancement across different branches.

Additional Information

Due to the safety-sensitive nature of this position, candidates must pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol screening test.

MPI is committed to honoring the Treaty of Waitangi and actively engages with iwi, hapū, whānau, and community groups. The agency embraces diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds to foster an inclusive workplace. Applicants should submit a cover letter detailing their values, motivations, relevant strengths, and varied perspectives.

Applicants must have or be eligible to obtain the right to work in New Zealand.