Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) Specialist

1. Assessment and Planning of Canine Care Processes 

2. Training and Mentoring 

3. Infrastructure and Procurement Support 

4. Policy Development and Implementation 

Reporting to the Technical Lead, the Explosive Detection Dog (EDD) Specialist will be responsible for the assessment and planning of canine care processes and will carry out the following duties: 1. Assessment and Planning of Canine Care Processes: 

• Conduct thorough assessments of existing or required canine care processes and infrastructure related to explosive detection dogs.

• Work closely with the technical lead to develop a plan for the assessment of existing capacity and facility. 

• Work closely with the Programme Officer to ensure knowledge of assessment results is adequately captured in the final CNA report.  

• Develop and implement comprehensive plans for canine care, including health, nutrition, training, and welfare, aligned with international best practices and standards to be initiated immediately (or potentially during) the CNA. 

• Work closely with the NGU teams to understand existing training and handling capacity. 

• Identify areas of need in EDD. 

• Design training programs for handlers and canines specializing in demining operations. 

• Provide ongoing mentoring and support to handlers to ensure optimal performance and teamwork with their canines. Identify and address any training gaps or challenges.

• Assess existing infrastructure and work closely with the Infrastructure team at UNOPS to determine infrastructure needs, as related to handling and training. 

• Contribute to the planning and implementation of infrastructure development for the canine training and breeding center.

• Provide expert advice on canine procurement, including selection criteria, sourcing, and transportation, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and ethical standards.

• When applicable, provide recommendations for proven and tested canine suppliers. 

• Ensure procured canines meet standards and requirements making them fit for service. 

• Contribute to the development and implementation of policies and procedures related  to canine use in demining operations. 

• Ensure alignment with state institution policies and identify opportunities for improvement and harmonization. 

• Maintain familiarity with applicable International Mine Action Standards (IMAS), National Mine Action Standards (NMAS), UNOPS EDD CMS and best practices in EDD operations.

• Ensure alignment with the NMAS of Ukraine, working closely with the UNOPS Mine Action Operations unit and the technical lead.

• Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience; OR

• A first level university degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience; OR

• A technical or professional diploma with a minimum of 9 years of relevant experience.

Relevant experience is defined as: 

• Between 5 and 9 years of experience in conflict, post-conflict, or humanitarian operations is required

• At least 2 years of professional K9 explosive detection experience.

• At least 2 years of experience working directly in the procurement of canine. 

• Proven record as an EDD handler for min 2 years is required

• Proven experience as an EDD training for min 2 years is required. 

• Experience   in developing and running IMAS-compliant EDD programs is an asset

• Experience in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in mine action is an asset.

• EOD knowledge (EOD Level 1 or 2) is desired.